Browning Model 1886 Carbine Grade I .45-70 Gov’t 22” Lever Rifle 1992 & Box
SOLD FOR: $1,526.00
LSB#: LSB260419DN075
Make: Browning, Mfg. in Japan by Miroku
Model: 1886 Carbine Grade 1
Serial Number: 01229NY1C7
Year of Manufacture: 1992 (NY Date Code)
Caliber: .45-70 Government
Action Type: Tubular Magazine Fed Lever Action Rifle
Barrel Length: 22” Round
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a blade pinned to a raised block integral to the barrel. The rear sight is a ladder sight which presents a fixed u-notch when down and a sliding u-notch lead when up, dovetailed to the barrel.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are two piece smooth walnut with a straight grip, straight comb, banded forend, and carbine style steel buttplate. The left side of the receiver has a saddle ring. There are a few minor compressions, scuffs, and scratches. There are no chips or cracks. The LOP measures 13 1/4″ from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. There are scuffs on the heel and toe. Overall, the stocks rate in Very Good 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 light operational or handling wear. The balance of the finish is strong and complete throughout with light thinning on the leading edges. There is faint saddle ring wear on the left side of the receiver. 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. 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.
Our Assessment: The Browning Model 1886 Grade I is a faithful reproduction of the legendary Winchester 1886, one of the strongest and most celebrated lever-action rifles of the late 19th century. Originally designed by John Moses Browning, the 1886 was built to handle powerful cartridges like the .45-70 Government, offering hunters and frontiersmen exceptional firepower in a rugged lever-action design. In the early 1990s, Browning partnered with Miroku of Japan—renowned for their craftsmanship and precision manufacturing—to produce these modern reproductions. The result was a rifle that captured the beauty and heritage of the original while benefiting from modern steel and machining tolerances.
This 1992-production example is chambered in the classic .45-70 Gov’t and sports a handy 22” barrel, making it well-suited for both hunting and range use. The rifle remains in Excellent condition, showing virtually no signs of handling wear and retaining about 99% of its original blue finish. Almost all of the wear is held in the stocks. The bore is bright with sharp rifling, rating 10/10, and the walnut stocks are clean with only light handling marks. For shooters who want a powerful lever gun or collectors seeking a high-quality tribute to an American classic, the Browning 1886 Grade I offers the perfect blend of history, craftsmanship, and modern reliability. Please see our photos and good luck on your bid! – L.S.