Browning Model 1885 High Wall .45-70 28” Octagonal Single Shot Rifle
SOLD FOR: $1,475.00
LSB#: LSB251130SL057
Make: Browning
Model: 1885 High Wall
Serial Number: 02208NW247
Year of Manufacture: 1994 (NW date code)
Caliber: .45-70
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 Gov” The serial number is marked on the right side of the receiver.
Action Type: Lever Actuated Falling Block Single Shot
Barrel Length: 28″ Octagon
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a globe style dovetailed into the barrel. The rear sight is a Smith adjustable buckhorn dovetailed into the barrel.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are two-piece checkered walnut. The forend has a light Schnabel tip. The buttstock has a straight comb, straight grip, and rubber recoil pad. The LOP measures 13 1/4″ from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. There are a few minor scratches and marks overall. Overall, the stocks are in Very Good Plus condition.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and rifling is sharp. There is no erosion. There is minor fouling in the bore. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 9/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains approximately 95% of the blued finish. There are a few scratches and handling marks. There are a few spots of minor discoloration in the bluing. There are dings on the barrel where the sights have been replaced. The screwheads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle is in about Verey Good condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We have not fired this rifle. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: Box and paperwork.
Our Assessment: This Browning Model 1885 High Wall represents a modern continuation of one of John M. Browning’s most respected single shot designs, a rifle that earned its reputation in the late nineteenth century for strength, precision, and mechanical elegance. Manufactured in Japan in 1994, this example closely follows the classic High Wall profile, pairing the robust lever actuated falling block action with a long 28 inch octagonal barrel that immediately evokes the deliberate, deliberate pace of traditional single shot shooting. The fit and finish reflect the high standards associated with Browning’s Miroku production, offering a faithful and well executed interpretation of the original pattern.
Chambered in .45-70 Government, the rifle is tied to one of the most historically significant American cartridges, a round introduced in 1873 that bridged military service, frontier hunting, and later sporting use. The substantial octagonal barrel provides excellent balance and visual presence, while the globe front sight and Smith adjustable buckhorn rear sight support precise iron sight shooting. The checkered walnut stocks with light Schnabel forend, straight grip, and straight comb contribute to a traditional silhouette and comfortable handling, reinforced by a rubber recoil pad that tempers the cartridge’s recoil without detracting from the rifle’s classic lines.
Condition remains strong overall, with approximately 95 percent of the original blued finish present and only light handling marks and minor discoloration visible. The bore is bright with sharp rifling and rates 9 out of 10, supporting the rifle’s appeal as a well preserved and carefully maintained example. Included box and paperwork add completeness and enhance its presentation. This Browning Model 1885 High Wall stands as a compelling blend of historical design and modern manufacture, offering both visual impact and mechanical integrity. Please see our photos for a better understanding of condition and good luck with your bids! MF
