Winchester Model 1887 ’87 30″ 12 GA Lever Action Shotgun, MFD 1890 Antique
SOLD FOR: $1104
LSB#: 210711RW28
Make: Winchester Repeating Arms Co.
Model: 1887
Serial Number: 27785
Year of Manufacture: 1890
Caliber: 12 Gauge
Action Type: Lever Action, Tubular Magazine Shotgun
Markings: The serial number “27785” is marked on the underside of the receiver; the lower tang is stamped, “MANUFACTURED BY THE / WINCHESTER REPEATING ARMS CO. / -NEW HAVEN, CONN. U.S.A.- / PAT. FEB. 16, & JULY 20, 1886.” The “WRACo” monogram logo is engraved on the left side of the receiver. The left-rear of the barrel is marked “WP” in oval (the earlier assembler’s mark, not the later monogram proof).
Barrel Length: 30″
Choke: Cylinder Bore, Fixed
Sights / Optics: The receiver has a shallow groove and the front sight is a brass bead 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 is weathering and loss along the bottom edge of the left portion of the forend. There is discoloration in the handling areas of the stocks. There are no cracks. The LOP measures 12 3/4″ from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The plate has scattered wear and erosion with well defined checkering. Overall, the stocks are in about Good-Very Good condition as Antique.
Type of Finish: Blue & Case Color
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is gray. There is scattered light erosion and pitting in the bore.
Overall Condition: This shotgun retains about 7% of its metal finish. Remaining finish is in protected areas such as the bottom of the barrel, top of the magazine tube and the portions of the lever assembly which are concealed when the action is closed. Most other surfaces have gone to a light-moderate patina with most edges worn to white. There are some scattered light nicks, scuffs and scratches with infrequent spots of light surface erosion. The screw heads range from sharp to tool marked with strong slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this shotgun is in 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 12 gauge example was produced in 1890, near the middle of production. The bore is decent, especially for a gun which would likely have seen use exclusively with black powder, it functions beautifully, looks good, 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!