I got a Winchester model 47 for my 12th. birthday, about 40 years ago, and still have it and can shoot it more accurately than any .22 I've had since. I can't find anything about it on the net - was it something special, or is it the tens of thousands of rounds of practice which have gone through it?

The model 47 was made from 1948-54, and was a middle of the line single shot bolt action. I would say your guess as to it's shooting prowess is correct. Age has probably taken a great tirgger and helped it become even better.