Winchester Model 1886 24″ 45-70 Gov’t Lever Action Rifle, 1889 Antique
SOLD FOR: $2,451.00
LSB# LSB251009DC008
Make: Winchester
Model: 1886
Serial Number: 37778
Year of Manufacture: 1889
Caliber: .45-70 Government
Action Type: Lever Action with Half-Length Tubular Magazine
Barrel Length: 24″ Round (barrel has been replaced)
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a bead dovetailed to the front of the barrel. The rear sight is a standard Semi-Buckhorn rear.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are two-piece smooth walnut with nosecap, straight grip, straight comb, and nickel-plated steel crescent buttplate. The stocks have scattered nicks, dings, scuffs and scratches. The stock looks to have been refinished at some point. There is some oil darkening next to the metal. The wood has receded in places. The LOP measures 13″ from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The plate has some wear at the heel, toe, and in the face with scattered oxidation. Overall, the stocks rate in Good condition as Antique.
Type of Finish: Blue
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is light fouling. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 9 out of 10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 20% of its metal finish. Most of the bluing has worn to gray patina on the receiver and forend cap. The replacement barrel has been reblued. The barrel has some light oxidation on the outside. There are dings and handling scratches throughout. The action shows operational wear. The screw heads range from sharp to tool marked with strong slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle is in Good condition as an altered Antique.
Mechanics: The action functions 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 1886 is one of John Moses Browning’s strongest and most respected lever action designs, created specifically to handle the powerful large bore cartridges of the late nineteenth century. Introduced in 1886, the rifle represented a significant leap forward in strength and durability over earlier Winchester models, allowing reliable use of heavy hunting and military cartridges. By 1889, the Model 1886 had become a favored arm for hunters, frontiersmen, and sportsmen who required a robust rifle capable of taking large game across the American West.
Chambered in .45-70 Government, this rifle is paired with one of the most iconic cartridges of the black powder era, originally adopted by the U.S. Army in 1873. Known for its heavy bullet and deep penetration, the .45-70 quickly gained a reputation for effectiveness on big game and long range targets alike. The 24 inch round barrel and semi buckhorn sights reflect a practical sporting configuration, while the half length tubular magazine contributes to the rifle’s balanced handling. Although the barrel has been replaced, the overall configuration remains true to the Model 1886’s traditional field role.
This example retains approximately 20 percent of its original metal finish, with most surfaces worn to a smooth gray patina consistent with long use and age. The replacement barrel has been reblued and shows light external oxidation, while the bore remains bright with sharp rifling and light fouling, rating 9 out of 10 in this writer’s opinion. The walnut stocks appear to have been refinished in the past and show scattered handling marks, oil darkening, and some wood recession, presenting in Good condition for an antique. Markings remain clear, the action shows operational wear, and the screw heads range from sharp to lightly tool marked. Overall, this Winchester Model 1886 stands as an honest, altered example of one of Winchester’s most powerful and historically significant lever action rifles. Please see our high resolution photos and good luck on your bid! MF
