Winchester Model 1887 12 Gauge 30” Lever Action Shotgun MFD 1890 Antique

SOLD FOR: $1,126.00

LSB#: WY241202MH028

Make: Winchester

Model: 1887

Serial Number: 30849

Year of Manufacture: 1890

Caliber: 12 Gauge

Action Type: Lever-Action, Tubular Magazine

Markings: The bottom tang is marked “MANUFACTURED BY THE WINCHESTER REPEATING ARMS CO NEW HAVEN CONN U.S.A. PAT FEB 16 & JULY 20 1886” The left side of the receiver is marked “WRA”

Barrel Length: 30.00”

Choke: Fixed, Improved Cylinder.

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a bead sight mounted to the barrel. The shotgun does not have a rear sight, as is standard for this model.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock is in a 2 piece wood configuration featuring a straight comb, plastic buttplate, semi pistol grip, and a smooth forend. The LOP is 13.75” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The top screw in the buttplate has stripped out and no longer threads into the stock. The comb of the buttstock has been repaired. There are light scratches and compression marks. There are no chips or cracks. The stock appears to be refinished. The stock rates in Good condition.

Type of Finish: Blued

Finish Originality: Refinished

Bore Condition: The bore is semi bright. There is moderate erosion and pitting present. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 6/10.

Many military and C&R eligible weapons have bores that will show erosion. This is not only due to age but to the fact that corrosive primers were commonly used in ammunition worldwide. For example, the U.S. used corrosive ammunition throughout WWII. The U.S. military did not begin to phase out corrosive-primed ammunition until the 1950s.

Overall Condition: This shotgun retains about 95% of its current metal finish. The balance of the finish shows light scratches on the barrel and receiver. There is pitting under the finish. The barrel has some light rust freckling on the barrel. The markings are clear. The screw heads are lightly tool marked with serviceable slots. This shotgun rates Good overall condition.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this shotgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None

Our Assessment: The Winchester Model 1887 was one of the earliest successful repeating shotguns and was designed by the legendary John Moses Browning. It features a lever-action operation that makes it one of the most recognizable and historically significant shotguns of its era. The 1887 was particularly favored by lawmen, hunters, and even stagecoach guards of the Old West.

This example, manufactured in 1890, falls into the Antique category and has been refinished at some point in its lifetime. While the refinishing has softened some of the original markings, it remains a mechanically sound and functional representation of this historic shotgun. The Winchester 1887 was famously used in movies and video games, adding to its iconic status.

For collectors and shooters alike, this is a great chance to own a functional piece of firearms history. Whether you want it for display or black powder shooting, the Winchester 1887 remains a unique and desirable shotgun. Please see our high-quality photos and good luck on your bid! -M.C.