Cooey: The Unassuming Canadian Workhorse

Published on November 6, 2019
Duration: 13:25

Cooey firearms, though largely unknown outside Canada, were ubiquitous workhorses known for their affordability, practicality, and ruggedness. The company, founded by Herbert Cooey, evolved from general machining to producing iconic .22 rifles like the Model 39 and Model 60, and the Model 84 shotgun. Despite a period of Winchester ownership, the Cobourg factory eventually closed in 1979.

Quick Summary

Cooey firearms were ubiquitous in Canada, known for being inexpensive, practical, and rugged .22 caliber rifles and .410 shotguns. Key models include the safety-oriented Model 39 rifle, the unique tube-fed Model 60 repeater, and the simple Model 84 break-action shotgun.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Cooey Firearms
  2. 00:45Cooey Company History
  3. 01:27The Cooey Model 39 Rifle
  4. 03:01The Cooey Model 60 and WWII Production
  5. 03:54The Cooey Model 84 Shotgun
  6. 05:04Winchester Acquisition and Factory Closure
  7. 06:36Technical Deep Dive: Model 39
  8. 08:26Technical Deep Dive: Model 60 Feeding
  9. 11:24Technical Deep Dive: Model 84

Frequently Asked Questions

What made Cooey firearms popular in Canada?

Cooey firearms gained popularity in Canada due to their affordability, rugged construction, and practical design, making them ideal for youth training, farm use, and general utility in various Canadian conditions.

What were the key Cooey firearm models discussed?

The video highlights the Cooey Model 39, a single-shot .22 rifle known for its safety features; the Model 60, a tube-fed bolt-action .22 repeater; and the Model 84, a simple break-action shotgun available in multiple gauges.

When was the Cooey company founded and by whom?

The Cooey company was founded in 1903 by machinist Herbert Cooey. Initially focused on general machining, the company entered the firearms market in 1919 after subcontracting for the Ross Rifle Company during WWI.

What happened to the Cooey company after Herbert Cooey's death?

Following the unexpected death of Hubert Cooey, Herbert Cooey sold the company to Olin (Winchester) in 1961. The Cooey brand continued briefly, with the Model 64 semi-auto introduced in 1964, before the factory closed in 1979.

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