Winchester Model 1886 Grade I .45-70 Gov’t 26” Lever Action Rifle MFD 1998
SOLD FOR: $1,503.00
LSB#: LSB250721SP001
Make: Winchester, Mfg. in Japan by Miroku
Model: 1886 Grade 1
Serial Number: 01028NP343
Year of Manufacture: 1998 (NP Date Code)
Caliber: .45-70 Government
Action Type: Tubular Magazine Fed Lever Action Rifle
Barrel Length: 26” Octagonal
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a beaded blade dovetailed to the barrel. The rear sight is a rectangular notch sight dovetailed to the barrel.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are two piece smooth walnut with a capped pistol grip, straight comb, steel crescent buttplate, and a capped forend. There are a few minor compressions. The LOP measures 13 3/8″ from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The plate shows no wear. Overall, the stocks rate in Excellent condition.
Type of Finish: Blue
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 10/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 99% of its metal finish. There is little to no operational or handling wear. The balance of the finish is strong and complete throughout. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle rates in Excellent condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The lever lock-up is tight and the trigger is crisp. Rebounding Hammer Safety. We did not fire this rifle. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This rifle comes with its factory box and owner’s manual.
Our Assessment: The Winchester Model 1886 is one of John Moses Browning’s great lever-action designs, introduced in the late 19th century to handle powerful cartridges like the .45-70 Government. This modern Grade I example, manufactured by Miroku in Japan under Winchester’s supervision, stays true to the robust original design while benefiting from modern materials and precision machining. It represents a faithful continuation of a classic rifle that served hunters and outdoorsmen for well over a century.
Chambered in .45-70 Government, this rifle carries the legacy of one of America’s most versatile cartridges, developed just after the Civil War for use in the U.S. Springfield Trapdoor. Known for its deep penetration and heavy-hitting authority, the .45-70 remains a popular choice for big game hunting, from bison and bear to modern-day elk and moose. Pairing this chambering with the smooth action of Browning’s 1886 design offers both nostalgia and functional power for today’s shooter or collector.
This particular rifle, with its 26-inch octagonal barrel, crescent steel buttplate, and near-99% finish, shows minimal handling wear and has a mirror-bright bore that rates 10/10. The inclusion of its original box and manual makes it especially appealing to collectors, while its robust build and crisp mechanics make it more than capable as a hunting rifle. Whether you are seeking a historically important lever-action for your collection or a practical, hard-hitting field rifle, this 1998 Winchester 1886 is a fine opportunity. Please see our photos and good luck on your bid! – L.S.
