Winchester model 1887 ’87 12 Ga 32″ Lever Action Shotgun, MFD 1888 Antique

SOLD FOR: $1307

LSB#: 210926RS44

Make: Winchester

Model: 1887

Serial Number: 21591

Year of Manufacture: 1888

Gauge: 12 Gauge Black Powder, 2 3/4” Shells

Action Type: Lever Action Shotgun

Markings: The serial number is on the underside of the frame. The lower 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 with a Winchester Repeating Arms logo.

Barrel Length: 32″

Choke: Improved Modified, Fixed

Sights / Optics: There is a brass bead screwed into the front of the barrel.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are smooth walnut with a round-bottom pistol grip, checkered steel butt plate and a two piece forearm. The wood was refinished at some point. There is light material loss on the right side of the buttstock at the rear as well as the top of the wrist on either side of the tang. The stocks have several scattered nicks, dings, scuffs and scratches. There are areas of darker discoloration throughout though most notable on the buttstock. The LOP measures 12 7/8” from the front of the trigger to the rear of the butt plate. The plate has heavy erosion, most notable at the heel. The stocks rate in about Very Good overall condition as Antique and refinished.

Type of Finish: Parkerized

Finish Originality: Refinished

Bore Condition: The bore gray, the surfaces have moderate pitting and erosion.

Overall Condition: This shotgun retains about 60% of its current metal finish. Older erosion and light pitting is visible under the refinish, most notably on the magazine tube, the receiver tangs, and the lever. There are several scratches on the barrel, more so near the muzzle. The metal on the bottom front of the receiver has turned a light brown patina. The screw head slots are generally sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this shotgun rates in about Very Good condition as refinished and Antique.

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 standards.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None

Our Assessment: The Model 1887 was one of the first successful repeating shotguns. Its lever-action design was chosen at the behest of the Winchester Repeating Arms Company, best known at the time as manufacturers of lever-action rifles such as the Winchester Model 1873. Designer John Browning suggested that a pump-action would be much more appropriate for a repeating shotgun, but Winchester management’s position was that, at the time, the company was known as a “lever-action firearm company”, and felt that their new shotgun must also be a lever-action for reasons of brand recognition. Browning responded by designing a breech-loading, rolling block lever-action. The action on this shotgun is exceptional and the markings are all still clearly visible. Please see our photos and good luck!