Browning Model 1885 .45-70 28” barrel Falling Block Single Shot Rifle 1995

SOLD FOR: $1,125.00

LSB#: LSB250520NP016

Make: Browning Arms Company

Model: 1885 

Serial Number: 01668NV247

Year of Manufacture: 1995 (NV Code)

Caliber: .45-70 Govt.

Action Type: Single Shot, Lever-Actuated, Exposed Hammer Falling Block Rifle

Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “BROWNING ARMS COMPANY MORGAN, UTAH & MONTREAL P.Q. / MADE IN JAPAN”. The right side of the barrel is marked “BROWNING MODEL 1885 CALIBER .45-70 GOVT”. The right side of the receiver is marked with the serial number.

Barrel Length: 27” Octagonal

Sights / Optics:  The front sight is a dovetailed blade. The rear sight is a u-notch elevator sight dovetailed to the barrel. 

Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are smooth walnut with checkered grips, fluted comb, and a rubber buttplate. There are some tiny scratches throughout. See pictures for more information. The LOP measures 13 ½ ” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate, which shows no wear. The stocks rate a Very Fine overall condition.

Type of Finish: Blue

Finish Originality: 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 a few tiny scattered marks, none of which draw attention.  The rifle looks to have seen minimal use if any at all. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are crisp. Overall, this antique-designed rifle rates an Excellent 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: none

Our Assessment: From the Winchester Collector Association, “The Model 1885 Single Shot rifle was John M. Browning’s first design and patent, and it was the first single-shot to be built by Winchester. The patent for the Model 1885 rifle was what brought John M. Browning and the Winchester Repeating Arms Company together for the beginning of their eventual 19-year association.  Nearly 140,000 Model 1885s were manufactured from September 1885 to June of 1920.” Many would consider the Model 1885 to be the greatest single shot ever designed. Amongst the earliest of Browning’s designs, and the first produced by Winchester. Please see our photos and good luck on this historically rich firearm! C.B.