This very popular firearm is an iron-framed, lever-action Sporting Model 1886 repeating rifle produced by the Winchester Repeating Arms Company of New Haven, Connecticut. The 1886 rifle, often called “the best rifle in the world”, even made Theodore Roosevelt, later President of the United States, very fond of the large caliber Model 1886 working rifle during his western adventures on the plains. Produced from 1886 through 1935, almost 160,000 M1886 carbines and rifles were produced with calibers that varied from the smaller .33 WCF to the largest, .50-100, with the most popular caliber being the large .45-70, and the .45-90.

In excellent overall original condition, this Sporting model rifle bears serial # 97206 and per Winchester records was produced in the 2^nd or 3^rd quarter of 1895. The M1886 differed from the previous Winchester repeating actions in that this model was the first to utilize John M. Browning’s patent design that was a vast improvement from the Model 1876 rifle. The ‘86’s shorter, streamlined frame as well as the distinctive locking bolts at the frame’s top and bottom proved very popular and were well received by sportsmen, shooters and law enforcement groups. This handsome specimen has the 26” long round barrel fitted with a round tubular magazine attached beneath the under barrel by a small steel band. Model 1886 had the case-hardened frame, hammer, forend cap and the crescent style buttplate fitted to a two-piece, straight-grained, oil-stained black walnut stock and forend. All gunmetal has been lightly cleaned. No original case visible on the rifle and the barrel has been reblued. Receiver area shows typical use with scattered mix of patina and gray with spotted pepper and flaking. Has original bluing on loading gate.

Serial # 97206 marked on the lower tang along with the patent stamp “PAT. OCT. 14, 1884 / JAN. 20, 1885.” Stamping “MODEL 1886” is seen on the upper tang behind the hammer while “45-90 W.C.F.” seen on the top surface of barrel near edge at the receiver. Maker’s address on the barrel top reads: “MANUFACTURED BY THE / WINCHESTER REPEATING ARMS CO. NEW HAVEN. CONN. U.S.A.” No saddle ring. Barrel exhibits the sporting-style front sight and the adjustable folding style rear sight. Bore exhibits original six-groove rifling in minty, shiny bright condition. Black walnut stock, lightly sanded, wears normal dings, dents, and abrasions from use and age, no breaks or cracks. One tiny sliver of wood missing at both left and right front wrist area above trigger. No cartouches. Original frame screws excellent, not buggered. Rifle exhibits crisp mechanics. Very fine, popular Winchester Repeating Model 1886 longarm.

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