Pre-64 Winchester Model 1894 94 Carbine .30-30 WCF 20” Lever Rifle 1929 C&R
SOLD FOR: $2,500.00
LSB#: WY241006GW130
Make: Winchester Repeating Arms
Model: 1894
Serial Number: 1076900
Year of Manufacture: 1929
Caliber: .30-30 Winchester
Action Type: This rifle has a lever action with a full-length tubular magazine.
Markings: The left of the barrel is marked “–MODEL 94- WINCHESTER – NICKEL STEEL – 30 W.C.F.– / –TRADE MARK–”. The right side of the barrel is marked “MADE IN U.S.A. WINCHESTER REPEATING ARMS CO. / –NEW HAVEN, CONN.–”. The top-rear of the barrel and the receiver’s chamber ring each have an ovalled “WP” proof. The underside of the receiver is marked “1076900”. The top tang is marked WINCHESTER / -TRADE MARK- / -MADE IN U.S.A.-”. The front of the lower tang is marked “40”.
Barrel Length: 20″
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a blade pinned between a base integral to the barrel. The rear sight is a ladder sight (u-notch when down, u-notch slider when up), dovetailed to the barrel. The top tang is drilled, tapped, and filled for a tang sight (none present).
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are 2-piece smooth walnut with banded forend, straight grip, straight comb, and a steel carbine buttplate. There is a sling stud on the belly and another banded to the magtube. There are compression marks, scratches, and scuffs. There are no chips or cracks. The LOP measures 13 1/8” from the front of the trigger to the back of the plate. The plate shows finish loss around the edges with scuffs concentrated on the heel and toe. Overall, the stocks are in Fine condition.
Type of Finish: Blue
Finish Originality: Refinished.
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore. There is fouling on the lands. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 8/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 90% of its metal finish. There is thinning on the leading edges and muzzle. There are scratches and scuffs scattered about the barrel and receiver. The action shows operational wear. There is some minor pitting under the new blue finish on the sides of the receiver. The screw heads range from sharp lightly tool marked with strong slots. The markings are mostly clear aside from the WP proof on the top rear of the barrel. Overall, this rifle is in about Very Good condition as refinished.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The hammer has a half-cock safety. The lever safety does function properly. 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 .30-30 is one of the most iconic lever-action rifles in American history, often referred to as “The Deer Rifle” due to its widespread use among hunters for over a century. Designed by John Moses Browning and introduced in 1894, it became the first commercial sporting rifle chambered for smokeless powder cartridges, marking a significant technological advancement in firearm design. When paired with the .30-30 Winchester cartridge (introduced in 1895), the Model 1894 set the standard for lever-action hunting rifles, offering excellent balance, reliability, and sufficient power for medium to large game.
The rifle features a tubular magazine, traditionally holding six rounds, a 20-inch carbine barrel (though longer rifle variants exist), and an exposed hammer with a top-eject or later an angle-eject design (AE models), allowing for easier scope mounting. Its steel receiver and walnut stock give it a timeless look, while models have been available in both blued and stainless finishes. The .30-30 Winchester cartridge remains one of the most popular hunting rounds, known for its effectiveness within 200-250 yards, making the Model 1894 ideal for hunting deer, black bear, and wild hogs in thick brush or wooded areas.
The Winchester 1894 was produced in various configurations, including Trapper, Carbine, and Rifle models, and has been issued in numerous commemorative editions over the years. With over 7 million units produced, it is one of the most successful lever-action rifles of all time. Today, the Winchester 1894 in .30-30 remains a beloved choice among hunters, collectors, and enthusiasts who appreciate its historical significance, smooth action, and practical performance in the field. Please see our photos and good luck on your bid! – L.S.
