Winchester Model 1885 High Wall 30” .38-55 WCF No. 2 Octagonal Rifle, 1892
SOLD FOR: $1,475.00
LSB#: LSB250824LT013
Make: Winchester
Model: 1885 High Wall
Serial Number: 58386
Year of Manufacture: 1892 / Antique
Caliber: Originally .32-40 W.C.F., Bored out to .38-88
Action Type: Lever Actuated Falling Block Single Shot
Barrel Length: 30” No. 2 Octagonal Barrel
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a beaded blade dovetailed to the barrel. The rear sight is a u-notch semi-buckhorn elevator sight dovetailed to the barrel. The tang is mounted with a tang sight base. The sight itself is removed.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are two-piece smooth walnut. The forend has a Schnabel tip with a triangular ebony inlay. The buttstock has a straight pistol grip, straight comb, and steel crescent buttplate. There are some scattered minor compressions, dings, nicks, and scratches. The LOP measures 13 1/4? from the front of the set trigger to the back of the buttplate. The plate has corrosion throughout. Overall, the stocks are in Very Good condition as Antique.
Type of Finish: Blued & Case Color
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no notable erosion in the bore. There is a squib marks or gash on the bottom right side of the bore about an inch from the muzzle. The gash has marred the rifling. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 5/10 given the gash but otherwise would have rated 9/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 10% of its metal finish. Most of the finish has worn to white and muted. There is oxidation and patina throughout. There are some scattered nicks, dings, scuffs, and scratches. There are handling marks. The screwheads show light use. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle is in about Very Good condition as Antique.
Mechanics: The action works correctly. We have not fired 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 1885 High Wall was John Browning’s first design for Winchester and remains one of the strongest single-shot actions ever produced. Known for its precision and durability, the High Wall became a favorite among target shooters, hunters, and long-range black powder competitors during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This example, originally chambered in .32-40 W.C.F., has been bored out to .38-88—a rare black powder cartridge closely associated with early Schuetzen and Creedmoor-style shooting. With its 30” No. 2 octagonal barrel, set trigger, and tang sight base, this rifle clearly reflects a period-correct target setup optimized for long-range accuracy. Manufactured in 1892, this rifle retains strong antique character with most of the finish worn to a soft gray patina and traces of muted case color remaining on the receiver. The bore is bright with sharp rifling, though there is a visible gash near the muzzle on the bottom right side—likely the result of a squib load or cleaning damage—bringing the bore rating to 5/10 despite otherwise excellent condition. The stock set shows attractive grain with classic features like the Schnabel-tipped forend and crescent buttplate, which has aged to a deep patina. The set trigger functions, and the falling block locks up tightly—testament to Browning’s robust design.
For collectors of early Winchester rifles or fans of vintage long-range black powder cartridges, this High Wall offers both historical interest and unique chambering. Though not pristine, its worn finish and field patina speak to a life of use rather than disuse, and its potential for restoration, research, or even careful shooting with hand-cast .38-88 loads makes it a rewarding acquisition. Please see our photos and good luck on your bid! -R.E.
