The rifles used in the classic television series The Rifleman are not owned by a single entity, as multiple prop rifles were utilized during the show's run. Ownership of these iconic firearms is split among different notable individuals and institutions.
Current Ownership of The Rifleman's Prop Rifles
At least two distinct Winchester rifles were prominently featured and customized for Chuck Connors' character, Lucas McCain, in The Rifleman. Their current known ownership details are as follows:
| Rifle | Current Owner(s) | Location/Status |
|---|---|---|
| One of the Primary Rifles | The legendary cowboy actor Gene Autry acquired one of the rifles. | This particular rifle is displayed as part of the collection at the Autry Museum of the American West in California, founded by Gene Autry himself. |
| The Second Winchester Rifle | William Simon, a former Cabinet member under President Richard Nixon, purchased another one of the prominent Winchester rifles used in the series. | Its current specific location or public display status is not widely publicized, but it entered private hands after being acquired by Simon. |
These rifles are not merely props but significant pieces of television and Western memorabilia, embodying the enduring legacy of The Rifleman and its unique, lever-action rapid-fire modifications. Their ownership by figures like Gene Autry further solidifies their place in American pop culture history.
