First Year Winchester 1887 12 GA 20.5” Lever Action Shotgun, Antique
SOLD FOR: $1,005.00
LSB# LSB260124GG020
Make: Winchester Repeating Arms Co.
Model: 1887
Serial Number: 3125
Year of Manufacture: 1887
Caliber: 12 Gauge
Action Type: Lever Action, Tubular Magazine Shotgun
Barrel Length: 20.5″ Chopped
Choke: Fixed, Open.
Sights / Optics: The receiver has a shallow groove and the front sight is a brass post screwed to the front of the barrel.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are walnut with a two-piece forend secured by one screw and one-piece buttstock with semi-pistol grip and Winchester checkered hard rubber buttplate. The stocks have scattered nicks, dings, scuffs and scratches. There are cracks around the buttplate. There are cracks at the rear of both tangs. The wrist is separating from the tangs and receiver. The LOP measures 13 1/8? from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. Overall, the stocks are in Poor condition.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Refinished
Bore Condition: The bore is gray. There is erosion and pitting scattered through the bore. In this writer’s opinion this bore rates a 5/10.
Overall Condition: This shotgun retains about 80% of its current finish. The balance of the finish shows modest handling and operational wear. There is erosion under the new finish. There is thinning on the leading edges. There are scabs on the barrel and nicks scattered about the metal. The screw heads range from sharp to tool marked with strong slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this shotgun is in Fair condition as refinished antique.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly, the lever moves smoothly, and the trigger trips the hammer. We have not test-fired this gun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None
Our Assessment: The Winchester Model 1887 is one of the most iconic early repeating shotguns in American firearms history, designed by John Browning and introduced as Winchester’s first successful lever action shotgun. This example, bearing a low serial number and manufactured in 1887, represents a true first year production piece from the dawn of repeating shotgun development. Originally designed for black powder 12 gauge shells, the 1887 quickly gained recognition for its rapid follow up capability and distinctive operation, finding use on the frontier, in law enforcement roles, and later becoming one of the most recognizable lever action shotguns ever produced. Its compact 20.5 inch barrel, though shortened from original length, enhances its already quick handling characteristics and reflects the long working life many of these early guns experienced.
Chambered in 12 gauge, this example retains approximately 80 percent of its refinished metal finish with visible underlying erosion, scattered marks, and edge wear consistent with age and use. The bore is gray with pitting and erosion throughout, rating 5 out of 10. The walnut stock set shows significant wear and structural issues, including cracks at the tangs and buttplate and separation at the wrist, indicative of extended use over more than a century. Despite its condition, the action cycles smoothly and functions as intended. As a documented first year production Winchester Model 1887, this shotgun represents an important and tangible piece of early repeating shotgun history with strong historical appeal. Please see our photos for a better understanding of the condition and good luck with your bids! – L.S.