Winchester Model 1886 Takedown 22” .45-70 Lever Action Rifle MFD 1902 C&R
SOLD FOR: $3,001.00
LSB#: LSB250725JM016
Make: Winchester
Model: 1886
Year of Manufacture: 1902, C&R
Caliber: 45-70 Government
Action Type: Lever Action, Tubular Magazine Fed Rifle
Serial Number: 128152
Markings: The top of the barrel is marked “MANUFACTURED BY THE / -WINCHESTER REPEATING ARMS CO. NEW HAVEN.CONN.U.S.A-”. The top of the chamber is marked “45-70”. The left side of the barrel is marked “NICKEL STEEL”. The top tang is marked “-MODEL 1886-”. The bottom tang is marked “128152” at the rear.
Barrel Length: 22”, Round
Sights: The front sight is a Lyman’s beaded blade dovetailed to the barrel. The rear sight is a u-notch elevator sight dovetailed to the barrel with fine elevation adjustment. The top tang has been drilled, tapped, and filled for a tang sight (none present). There are two holes drilled and tapped on the left side of the receiver.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are two-piece smooth walnut with capped forend, straight grip, straight comb and checkered Winchester hard rubber buttplate. The stocks have scattered nicks, dings, scuffs and scratches. The nicks are dark with stain. The LOP measures 13 1/4? from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. Overall, the stocks are in Fine condition as refinished.
Type of Finish: Case Color, Blued
Finish Originality: Refinished
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 9/10.
Overall Condition: The rifle retains approximately 85% of its finish. The balance of the blue is strong throughout with some thinning on the muzzle and leading edges. The case color is strong in the protected areas of the hammer and lever. There is intermittent oxidation. The screw heads range from sharp to tool marked with strong slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle is in Very Good condition as refinished.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly and smoothly. The Half-cock safety functions properly. The lever locks up solidly. 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 1886 is one of the legendary John Browning designs that cemented Winchester’s reputation as a maker of powerful and reliable lever-action rifles. Introduced in the late 19th century, the Model 1886 was specifically engineered to handle large black powder cartridges like the .45-70 Government, making it a favorite among hunters and frontiersmen who needed dependable stopping power for big game. By 1902, when this rifle was manufactured, the model had already proven itself as a rugged and versatile firearm capable of taking on the toughest challenges in North America. The takedown configuration added further practicality, allowing the rifle to be broken down for transport or storage—an especially valuable feature for those traveling long distances by rail, stage, or horseback.
This example, chambered in .45-70, retains about 85% of its refinished blue and case-colored surfaces, with sharp markings and a bright 9/10 bore. The action remains smooth and solid, with proper function of the half-cock safety and lever lockup. The walnut stocks present well with evidence of honest handling, showing the character of a rifle that has lived a useful life while remaining attractive. Collectors of early Winchester lever-actions will appreciate the combination of historical significance, mechanical soundness, and classic presentation that this 1886 takedown offers. Whether sought as a functional shooter in a venerable chambering or as a cornerstone piece in a Winchester collection, this rifle represents the enduring appeal of one of Browning’s finest lever-action designs. Please see our photos and good luck on your bid! – L.S.
