Pre-64 Winchester Model 1894 .30-30 WCF Carbine 20” Lever Action, C&R

SOLD FOR: $1,350.00

LSB#: LSB250804MF083

Make: Winchester Repeating Arms

Model: 1894 

Serial Number:  1410573

Year of Manufacture: 1943-1948 (no records during those years)

Caliber: .30-30 Winchester Center Fire (.30-30 W.C.F.)

Action Type: This rifle has a lever action with a full-length tubular magazine.

Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “MADE IN NEW HAVEN, CONN, U.S. OF AMERICA / –WINCHESTER PROOF STEEL– WINCHESTER– / TRADE MARK/–MADE IN U.S.A.–” Nearer the chamber it is marked  “MODEL 94–30–WCF–    The top tang is unmarked.  The bottom of the receiver is marked with the serial number “1410573”. The receiver and top of the barrel are also marked with a  WP proof. 

Barrel Length: 20”, Round

Sights / Optics:  The front sight is a hooded beaded blade attached to a serrated ramped base fixed to the barrel. The rear sight is a “U”-notch Semi-buckhorn elevator sight dovetailed to the barrel. 

Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are 2-piece smooth walnut with a banded forend, straight grip, straight comb, and checkered steel buttplate.  The stocks have scattered light nicks and scratches throughout with minor finish loss intermittently.  There are no chips or cracks. The LOP measures 13 1/8” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. Overall, the stocks are in Fine condition for a C&R. 

Type of Finish: Blue

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is very bright and shiny and the rifling is well defined. There is no erosion. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 9.5/10.

Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 95% of its metal finish. There is minor thinning present on the leading edges and some mottling of the finish on the receiver.  There are scattered light scratches on the right side of the receiver. The action has very  light operational wear and the edges are still sharp. The screw heads are sharp with strong slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle rates in Excellent condition.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The hammer has a half-cock safety and there is a lever safety that functions correctly. 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 Winchester Model 1894 is one of the most iconic lever-action rifles ever produced, forever tied to the American frontier and the rise of the smokeless powder era. Chambered in .30 W.C.F. (.30-30), it quickly became the quintessential deer rifle and remains so to this day. This example was manufactured between 1943-1948 when there are no records for dates of manufacture in 1894’s.  The original condition has exceptional remaining finish for an 80-year old rifle.  While it would be a nice addition to any collector’s arsenal, it would still function perfectly as a shooter or hunting rifle on .30-30.  It shows all the classic Winchester features making it representative of the rifles carried by hunters, ranchers, and woodsmen in the early 20th century. 

Condition shows the minimal use of an 80-year old rifle with an excellent bore that will make this rifle a great shooter or a prize for any Winchester or old west collection. Mechanically, it is sound and ready for range or field use. Now C&R eligible, this Model 1894 offers both historical significance and practical shootability.  Please see our photos for a better understanding of condition and good luck with your bids!!! – 

BF