SHARP Miroku Winchester U.S. Repeating Arms Model 1885 High Grade Engraved, Blue & Gold 24 1/2” Single Shot Exposed Hammer Low Wall Rifle & Box
SOLD FOR: $1,975
LSB#: 151215JL03
Make: Made by Miroku in Japan for U.S. Repeating Arms Company, under Winchester Licensing
Model: 1885, High Grade
Serial Number: 000EFH0728
Year of Manufacture: 2001
Caliber: .22 Long Rifle
Action Type: Single Shot, Exposed Hammer, Low Wall Rifle
Markings: The left shoulder of the octagonal portion of the barrel is marked “U.S. REPEATING ARMS CO., NEW HAVEN, CT, U.S.A. / MODEL 1885 / WINCHESTER / LICENSEE” with a Winchester proof, also reflected on the top of the receiver, the top of the barrel is marked “CAL. .22 L.R.”, the right shoulder is marked “MADE IN JAPAN / MIROKU”. The flanks of the receiver have fine High Grade engraving with gold inlay, depicting forestry, squirrels and oak leaves. The flanks of the lever have finely detailed oak leaves, the underside of the receiver is marked with the serial number. The upper tang is marked “WINCHESTER”. The end label of the factory box is serialized to this rifle and reflects the High Grade engraving, barrel length and finish.
Barrel Length: 24 ½”, Round & Octagonal
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a high profile beaded brass blade, integral to a base that is dovetailed onto the barrel. The rear sight is a “U” notched semi-buckhorn leaf and step-slide elevator, dovetailed onto the barrel.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The fancy walnut stocks have a matte finish and checkering on the flanks of the forend and wrist of the butt stock. The forend has a Schnabel tip with a black insert, displaying factory sharp checkering and only the lightest of scuff marks. The butt stock has a strait wrist and a pinched, strait comb. The butt stock has no marks to speak of. The LOP measures 13 3/8” from the front of the trigger to the back of the blued crescent butt plate. The plate has an inlet on the comb and only displays shallow scuffs. The stocks rate in about Excellent Plus overall condition.
Type of Finish: Blued & Gold Inlay
Finish Originality: Factory Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 99% of its metal finish. The balance of the finish shows only the faintest of handling marks. There is no wear on components that interact during operation. This is essentially a ‘like new in box’ rifle; please see our photographs, the bluing is rich, the gold inlay is highly detailed and the edges are sharp. The screw heads are devoid of marks and do not appear to have ever been turned. The markings are crisp. Overall, this rifle rates in about Excellent Plus condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We have not fired this rifle. As with all previously owned firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: Included is the rifle’s original factory red cardboard Winchester box with the correct serial numbered end label. The box has scuffs from store with no major damage; included is the foam inserts which show some discoloration where the rifle was resting against the material. The factory owner’s manual, paper inserts, plastic bag, lock and bubble wrap are included as photographed.
Our Assessment: This is one beautiful 1885! High Grade means superb finishing, detailed engraving, gold inlay and select fancy stocks. The metal finish remains at 99% with only faint handling marks present. The wood has rich, sharp checkering and spectacular grain. The bore is sharp and bright with no evidence of use outside of factory testing. This rifle should attract collectors and recreational shooters alike; the rifle is chambered in .22 Long Rifle which is in almost every ammunition collection, but given its condition, the collectors may show more interest. Only 1,100 of these were made and here is your chance to own a near perfect 1885. The original factory box, foam inserts, paperwork and lock are included. Please see our pictures and good luck.
