Pre-64 Winchester Model 1894 Saddle Ring Carbine 38/55 Lever Rifle 1912 C&R

SOLD FOR: $1,580.00

LSB#: LSB251027RC002

Make: Winchester Repeating Arms

Model: 1894 Saddle Ring Carbine

Serial Number: 555018

Year of Manufacture: 1912 / C&R

Caliber: 38/55

Action Type: This is a Lever Action Carbine with a Full Length Magazine Tube.

Barrel Length: 20”, Round

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a pinned blade to a raised block integral to the barrel behind the barrel band. The rear sight is a carbine style ladder sight. The top tang is drilled, tapped, and filled for a tang sight (none present). 

Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are two-piece smooth wood with banded forend, straight grip, straight comb and carbine style steel. The stocks have some scattered nicks, scrapes, scratches and compression dents. There is a chip on the right side of the upper tang. There is a repaired crack at the upper tang.There is oil darkening around the receiver. There is mold staining on the buttstock. The LOP measures about 13” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. Overall, the stocks are in about Fair condition.

Type of Finish: Blue

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is dull. The rifling is somewhat defined. There is faint even erosion and pitting throughout. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 5/10.  

Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 40% of its finish. The action shows operational wear. The receiver has worn to a dark brown patina. The barrel and mag tube have bluing wear. There is light corrosion staining throughout. There are a couple small dings and scratches. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle is in about Poor – Fair condition.

Mechanics:  The action functions correctly. The hammer has a half-cock safety. The lever safety is present and fully functional. 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: This pre-64 Winchester Model 1894 Saddle Ring Carbine dates to 1912 production, a period when the Model 1894 had become firmly established as one of the most successful and widely used lever-action rifles in North America. Designed by John M. Browning, the 1894 was the first repeating sporting rifle engineered specifically for smokeless powder cartridges, and the saddle ring carbine configuration was closely associated with mounted use, ranch work, and general utility. Compact, fast-handling, and durable, these carbines were built to be carried hard, and this example clearly reflects that working heritage.

Chambered in .38-55 Winchester, the rifle is tied to one of the earliest and most respected sporting cartridges of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Known for its mild recoil, excellent accuracy, and effectiveness on medium game, the .38-55 was particularly popular in rifle-length configurations and remains closely associated with early Model 1894 production. The 20 inch round barrel and full-length magazine tube are consistent with the classic carbine profile, while the original carbine ladder rear sight and pinned front blade reflect period-correct sighting equipment. The bore shows even erosion and pitting with somewhat defined rifling, indicating extensive use consistent with age.

Overall, this rifle presents in poor to fair condition, retaining approximately 40 percent of its original blued finish. The receiver has worn to a dark brown patina, with bluing loss and light corrosion staining present throughout the barrel and magazine tube. The stocks show honest wear, including repairs and damage around the upper tang, oil darkening, and mold staining, all typical of a rifle that spent decades in active service and storage. Mechanically functional with intact safety features and clear markings, this saddle ring carbine stands as an authentic, well-worn example of early 20th century production from Winchester Repeating Arms, valued more for its historical character than cosmetic condition. Please see our high resolution photos and good luck on your bid! MF