Winchester Model 1886 26” Round .40-70 WCF Lever Action Rifle,1900 C&R

SOLD FOR: $5,400.00

LSB#:   LSB251016KS136

Make: Winchester

Model: 1886

Serial Number: 122513

Year of Manufacture: 1900 / C&R (

Caliber: .40-70 WCF 

Action Type: Lever Action with Full-Length Tubular Magazine

Markings: The bottom tang is marked with the serial number “122513” with patent dates. The top tang is marked “–MODEL 1886”–.  The top of the barrel near the receiver is marked “.40-70 W.C.F.”  The top of the barrel is marked “—MANUFACTURED BY THE—/  THE WINCHESTER REPEATING ARMS CO. NEW HAVEN CONN. U.S.A.”

Barrel Length: 26”, Round

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a blade dovetailed to the barrel. There is no rear sight but there is a sight base dovetailed to the barrel. 

Stock Configuration & Condition:  The stocks are two-piece smooth walnut with capped forend, straight grip, straight comb and crescent steel buttplate. There are minor nicks, scuffs and compression marks on the stocks most notably near the bottom of the receiver and the buttstock. There is a small crack emanating from the upper tang and a small chip at the bottom tang. The LOP measures 13” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate.  Overall, the stocks are in Very Good to Fine condition, as a C&R.

Type of Finish: Case Hardened / blued

Finish Originality: original

Bore Condition: The bore is bright and shiny and the rifling is sharp. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates at 9/10.

Overall Condition: This rifle retains 20% of its original metal finish. The action has minimal wear for a gun of this age.  The case coloring has worn to mottled patches with some color still visible on the right side of the receiver and forearm cap. The screw heads are sharp and the markings are strong but fading. Overall, this rifle is in Fine condition, as a C&R. 

Mechanics: The action functions correctly as far as cycling the action and pulling the trigger. We have not fired this rifle and would recommend that a competent gunsmith perform a full inspection before any use is considered. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None. 

Our Assessment: Introduced in 1886 and designed by John Moses Browning, the Winchester Model 1886 marked a decisive leap forward in lever action rifle design. Built around a robust, vertically locking bolt system, the Model 1886 was engineered to handle longer and more powerful cartridges than its predecessors, firmly establishing itself as Winchester’s premier “express” rifle of the late 19th century. Chamberings such as the .40-70 WCF positioned the rifle squarely in the era of serious sporting arms, well suited to North American big game during a period when reliability and power were paramount in the field.

This example, manufactured in 1900, features a 26 inch round barrel and retains strong mechanical integrity, with the action cycling correctly and the trigger functioning as intended. The bore remains bright with sharp rifling, rating 9 out of 10 in this writer’s opinion, a notable attribute for a rifle of this age and configuration. While much of the original metal finish has mellowed to an honest patina, traces of case coloring remain visible, particularly along the right side of the receiver and forearm cap, lending the rifle a visually authentic, well-traveled appearance consistent with long service.

The walnut stocks exhibit expected handling marks, along with a small crack at the upper tang and a minor chip near the bottom tang, details that speak to the rifle’s age and history rather than detract from its overall presence. With strong but fading markings, sharp screw heads, and original finish throughout, this Model 1886 remains a compelling and intact example of Winchester’s heavy-frame lever action lineage. Please see our photos for a better understanding of condition and good luck! –

BF