Browning Arms Model 1886 22″ .45-70 Government Lever Action Rifle
SOLD FOR: $1,175.00
LSB#: WY240905SP048
Make: Browning Arms Company by Miroku Corp.
Model: 1886
Year of Manufacture: Modern
Caliber: .45-70 Government
Action Type: Lever Action, Tubular Magazine Fed Rifle
Serial Number: 06778NY1C7
Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “BROWNING ARMS COMPANY MORGAN, UTAH 7 MONTREAL P.Q. / MADE IN JAPAN / .45-70 GOVT”. The right side of the barrel is marked “BROWNING MODEL 1886 CALIBER .45-70 GOVT”. The bottom of the receiver is marked “06778NY1C7”. The top tang is marked “ BROWNING MODEL 1886”.
Barrel Length: 22”, Round
Sights: The front sight is a blade pinned to a block on the barrel. The rear sight is a foldable adjustable v notch dovetailed to the barrel. There is a lyman adjustable aperture sight mounted to the top tang.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are two-piece smooth walnut with strapped forend, straight grip, straight comb and checkered steel buttplate. The stocks have scattered very light nicks, dings, scuffs and scratches. The LOP measures 13 3/8? from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. Overall, the stocks are in Excellent condition.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright The rifling is sharp. There is no erosion. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 9/10.
Overall Condition: The rifle retains approximately 99% of its finish. The screw heads range from sharp to tool marked with strong slots. There is a mark from the saddle ring on the receiver. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle is in Excellent condition
Mechanics: The action functions correctly and smoothly. The lever locks up solidly. 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: None
Our Assessment: The Browning Model 1886 is a cornerstone in the evolution of repeating rifles, designed by the legendary John Moses Browning and initially produced by the Winchester Repeating Arms Company. This rifle was introduced to the market in 1886, at a time when the firearms industry was seeking more powerful lever-action rifles capable of handling the larger and more potent cartridges necessary for big game hunting in North America. The introduction of the Model 1886 was a direct response to this demand, marking a significant technological advancement over previous models.
Browning’s design for the Model 1886 incorporated a stronger and more robust locking-block system, allowing it to chamber high-powered cartridges that were previously only manageable in single-shot rifles. This innovation not only made the Model 1886 more versatile in terms of ammunition but also significantly increased its reliability and durability. The rifle quickly gained a reputation among hunters and frontiersmen for its ability to take down large game, such as bear and deer, at a time when such capability was crucial for survival and sport.
The 1886 was produced in a variety of configurations and calibers, including the .45-70 Government, .45-90 WCF, and .40-82 WCF, catering to the needs of a wide range of users. Its production continued well into the 20th century, with over 160,000 units manufactured until its original production run ended in 1935. The rifle’s design influenced future generations of lever-action rifles and cemented Browning’s reputation as one of the most innovative firearms designers of his time.
Throughout its history, the Browning Model 1886 has been celebrated for its accuracy, reliability, and the sheer power it brought to a lever-action platform. It holds a place of honor in the annals of American firearms history, embodying the spirit of innovation and the quest for performance that characterized the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Today, the Browning Model 1886 is highly sought after by collectors and historical firearms enthusiasts, not only for its historical significance but also for its craftsmanship and the role it played in the development of repeating rifles. Please see our photos and good luck on your bid! – C.M.
