Winchester is a world leader in delivering innovative products built on integrity, hard work and a deep focus on our loyal customers. Our legacy in servicing hunters and shooters, law enforcement, and U.S. Warfighters runs deep with decades of support at the highest levels, including delivering technologically advanced products, top-shelf customer service and trusted industry leadership. From our research and development efforts to our manufacturing processes, we understand the value of product quality and performance. And we specialize in manufacturing ammunition for any shooter’s needs. When you need ammo for hunting, target practice or to protect the ones you love, Winchester has your back. With a reputation steeped in tradition, and a commitment to excellence in everything we do, we proudly call ourselves “The American Legend.”

Celebrating 150 Years of Winchester: The First 50 Years For 150 years, Winchester has created products essential to the early expansion and defense of this country, the protection of our communities by law enforcement and lifetimes of enjoyment and success in the outdoors.

But to truly appreciate just how far Winchester has transformed the American landscape not just for sportsmen, but for all people who enjoy a life of freedom and safety provided by our soldiers deployed around the world and the police officers who work our country’s streets, it’s important to note some of the key dates and developments throughout the company’s earliest days. Here’s a look at what took place the first 50 years.

The Winchester Repeating Arms Company was a prominent American manufacturer of repeating firearms and ammunition. The firm was established in 1866 by Oliver Winchester and was located in New Haven, Connecticut. The firm went into receivership in 1931 and was bought by the Western Cartridge Company, a forerunner of the Olin Corporation. The Winchester brand name is still owned by the Olin Corporation, which makes ammunition under that name. The Winchester name is also used under license for firearms produced by two subsidiaries of the Herstal Group – FN Herstal of Belgium and the Browning Arms Company of Ogden, Utah.