Western Field M72 Rifle: History, Parts & Value Information

Question
I have a Western Field 30.30 lever action rifle, Model M72.  I know that it was made for Montgomery Ward.  I was wondering if you knew of a website or another source that would have information on this gun, including parts, value, the manufacturing company, ect...  I have not been able to find anything about them myself, with the exception of Blue Book Value.  That is the least of my concerns (value)as this rifle has sentimental value to me.  Thanks in advance

Answer
Hi James.

There isn't that much to tell about your gun. As you already know, it was made for Montgomery Ward and thus was an inexpensive model with basic features and relatively low value. Because so many of them were made it is unlikely to come across any rare models or guns with a unique history.

The following link will explain a little more about the history:

https://store.bluebookinc.com/InstantAccess/Category.aspx?product=5&id=1068

This link will show you the store brand crossover list which shows that your gun was made by Mossberg as a model 472 PRA:

https://store.bluebookinc.com/Info/PDF/Firearm/Storebrand.pdf

This link will allow you to purchase the book value information which may also explain a bit more about the model derivatives:

https://store.bluebookinc.com/InstantAccess/Model.aspx?product=5&id=1261

This site is selling a reproduction of the original owners manual for your gun:

http://www.rediscovered-shooting-treasures.com/mossberg472.htm

This site has a free online parts schematic for your gun and they sell some replacement parts:

http://www.e-gunparts.com/productschem.asp?chrMasterModel=0840z472PRA


Hope this helps!

Bob