Winchester Model 88 .308 Win. Detachable Mag Lever Action Rifle, 1956 C&R
SOLD FOR: $1,125.00
WOA#: WY240530TP013
Make: Winchester
Model: 88
Serial Number: 31539
Year of Manufacture: 1956
Caliber: .308 Win.
Action Type: Lever Action with Removable Magazine
Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “-WINCHESTER- / -TRADE MARK-”, “-MODEL 88- / -MADE IN U.S.A.-”, “-CAL. .308 WIN.- / -WIN. PROOF STEEL-”. The barrel at the receiver and the front of the receiver are marked with a circled “WP” proof. The left side of the receiver is marked with the serial number. The Magazine is marked “WINCHESTER TRADE MARK”.
Barrel Length: 22”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a hooded beaded blade dovetailed to a serrated, ramped base fixed to the front of the barrel. The rear sight is a folding “U”-notch with white triangle aiming reference and the notch fine adjustable for elevation, dovetailed to the rear of the barrel. The top of the receiver has been drilled and tapped for a scope rail.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock is one-piece checkered walnut with capped semi-pistol grip, fluted straight comb, checkered black plastic Winchester buttplate, and sling studs front and rear. The stock shows minimal handling wear with a few very minor compressions and only one notable mark on the left side of the grip that almost blends into the checkering. The cap retains 99% of its metal finish and the plastic buttplate has small nicks and scratches around the edges of the buttplate. The LOP is 13.75” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. There are no visible chips or cracks. The stock is in Excellent condition overall especially when considering its age as C&R.
Type of Finish: Blue
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is infrequent minor erosion mostly in the middle third of the bore. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 7.5/10 for C&R.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains 98% of its metal finish. The balance of the finish shows rub wear on the front of the trigger guard where it rubs against the receiver when cycled, and some very minor scattered nicks and lines but none that are really notable. The screw heads are sharp and the markings clear. Overall this rifle is in Very Fine to Excellent condition considering the age of the rifle for C&R.
Mechanics: The action functions smoothly and correctly. The action is tight. This rifle has a cross-bolt safety located at the front of the trigger guard. 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: The rifle includes a single 5-round magazine with minor surface wear to the floor plate but overall the magazine is in Very Fine condition for C&R.
Our Assessment: The Winchester Model 88 is a classic lever-action rifle that stands out for its unique design and strong performance. Introduced in 1955, the Model 88 was a significant departure from traditional lever-action rifles, featuring a streamlined, box-magazine-fed design that allowed it to chamber modern high-pressure cartridges, like the .308 Winchester. The .308 Win is a versatile and popular cartridge known for its excellent balance of power, accuracy, and manageable recoil, making it ideal for a wide range of hunting applications, from deer to larger game. The Model 88’s ability to handle the .308 Winchester’s performance in a compact, fast-handling package made it a favorite among hunters and outdoorsmen. The rifle’s solid, well-crafted walnut stock and steel construction give it a rugged, reliable feel while maintaining a level of elegance that is characteristic of classic Winchesters. The detachable box magazine allows for faster and safer reloading compared to the tubular magazines found on more traditional lever guns. The combination of these features makes the Model 88 a unique blend of the classic lever-action feel with the performance attributes typically associated with bolt-action rifles. The Winchester Model 88 in .308 Winchester is well-regarded for its accuracy, quick handling, and reliability. Its innovative design elements, such as the box magazine, set it apart from other lever-action rifles of its era, providing a versatile and effective tool for hunting and shooting sports. With its combination of classic Winchester craftsmanship and forward-thinking engineering, the Model 88 remains a cherished rifle among collectors and hunters who appreciate a rifle that delivers both form and function. Please see our high quality photos and best of luck with your bidding!!!-R.L.
