Winchester Model 1887 32″ 10 Ga. Lever Action Shotgun, MFD 1893 Antique
SOLD FOR: $1600
LSB#: 210711RW29
Make: Winchester Repeating Arms Co.
Model: 1887
Serial Number: 51309
Year of Manufacture: 1893
Caliber: 10 Gauge
Action Type: Lever Action, Tubular Magazine Shotgun
Markings: The serial number “51309” is marked on the underside of the receiver; the lower tang is stamped, “MANUFACTURED BY THE / ???CHESTER REPEATING ARMS CO. / ??EW HAVEN, CONN. U.S.A.- / PAT. FEB. 16, & JULY 20, 1886.” The “WRAo” monogram logo is engraved on the left side of the receiver. The top-rear of the barrel is marked “10”, left-rear of the barrel is marked “WP” in oval (the earlier assembler’s mark, not the later monogram proof).
Barrel Length: 32″
Choke: Cylinder Bore, Fixed
Sights / Optics: The receiver has a shallow groove and the front sight is a brass blade screwed to the front of the barrel.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are walnut with a two-piece forend and one-piece buttstock with pistol grip and checkered steel buttplate. The stocks have scattered nicks, dings, scuffs and scratches. There are no chips or cracks. The wood is generally shy to the metal. The LOP measures 12 3/4″ from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The plate has scattered wear, surface oxidation, and infrequent erosion with well defined checkering. Overall, the stocks are in about Very Good condition as refinished Antique.
Type of Finish: Blue & Case Color
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is dark. There is scattered erosion and pitting in the bore.
Overall Condition: This shotgun retains about 10% of its metal finish. Remaining finish is found only in protected areas such as corners, between the barrel and magazine tube and internal portions of the action. Otherwise the metal surfaces have gone to a light-moderate patina mottled with wear and some areas of solid erosion. The action shows operational wear. The screw heads are tool marked with strong slots. The markings are generally clear, some filing on the bottom tang has removed a portion of the tang marking. Overall, this shotgun is in about Good-Very Good condition as Antique.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly, the lever moves smoothly, and the trigger trips the hammer. We have not fired this shotgun, it should be inspected by a qualified gunsmith prior to continued use. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None
Our Assessment: The Winchester Model 1887 was the first truly successful repeating shotgun. Its unique lever-action design was chosen by the Winchester Repeating Arms Company, and designed by the legendary designer, John Moses Browning to complement their popular lever-action rifles. The whole firearm itself is a remarkable engineering accomplishment. Originally chambered in 12 gauge only, 10 gauge was added in 1889. This 10 gauge example was produced in 1893, toward the end of production when the improved model 1901 would be introduced. The bore shows use with black powder, but it functions beautifully, looks great, and is a genuine artifact of the American West. This will make a fine addition to the collection of any Winchester or fine antique firearms collector, or aficionados of the American West. Please see our photos and good luck!