Browning 1885 125 Year Commemorative 45-70 Govt Falling Block Rifle 2003
SOLD FOR: $1,425.00
LSB#: WY250330GC096
Make: Browning
Model: 1885 High Wall 125 Year Commemorative
Serial Number: 02438MX371
Year of Manufacture: 2003
Caliber: .45-70 Government
Action Type: Falling Block, Single Shot
Barrel Length: 28”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a beaded blade dovetailed to the barrel. The rear sight is an adjustable buckhorn ladder sight. The top tang is mounted with a Marbles style peep sight.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock is in a 2 piece wood configuration featuring a fluted straight comb, steel buttplate, checkered straight wrist, and checkered forend. The LOP is 13.5” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. There are faint handling marks. There are no chips or cracks. The stock rates in Excellent condition.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright, the rifling is sharp. There is no visible erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 10/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 99% of its metal finish. The balance of the finish shows only light handling marks. The screw heads are sharp. The pins are clean. The markings are sharp. Overall, this rifle rates in about Excellent condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this rifle. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None
Our Assessment: The Browning 1885 High Wall is a faithful modern tribute to one of the most revered single-shot rifle designs in American history. Originally conceived by legendary gunmaker John Moses Browning in the late 19th century, the Model 1885 was the first rifle design sold to Winchester, setting the foundation for Browning’s lifelong partnership with the company. Known for its incredibly strong falling block action, the High Wall was popular for its versatility and accuracy, becoming a favorite among buffalo hunters and long-range marksmen. This 125 Year Commemorative model was released in 2003 to honor the legacy of Browning’s original 1878 patent and over a century of excellence in American firearms craftsmanship.
This commemorative edition captures the essence of the original design while showcasing modern production quality. Chambered in the classic and hard-hitting .45-70 Government, it retains the powerful black powder heritage of the late 1800s while being fully compatible with modern loads. The 28” octagonal barrel, high-polish blued finish, and finely checkered walnut furniture reflect both historical accuracy and elevated aesthetic appeal. The rifle features period-correct sights including a beaded front, adjustable ladder rear, and a Marble’s-style tang peep sight, offering both collectability and practical utility for precision shooting.
Collectors place high value on these rifles not only for their mechanical strength and historical significance, but also due to their limited commemorative production. With only a finite number of 125 Year Commemorative rifles made, this example—with its near-pristine condition—stands out as an especially desirable piece. The sharp, clean markings, excellent wood finish, and virtually unblemished metalwork (retaining about 99% of its original finish) make it an outstanding candidate for investment-grade collecting. The sharp rifling and perfect bore also position this rifle as an ideal shooter for those who enjoy precision single-shot rifles with historical flair.
In Excellent condition with all original finishes and no alterations, this rifle is both a museum-worthy collector’s item and a fully functional shooting tool. It represents a seamless marriage of heritage and modern precision. Whether displayed in a fine collection or taken to the range for nostalgic long-range shooting, this Browning 1885 High Wall will continue to represent the enduring legacy of one of America’s greatest firearm designers. Please see our high quality photos and good luck on your bid -M.C.
