Winchester Pre-64 1894 94 Carbine 20” Round .30-30 WCF Lever Action 1940
SOLD FOR: $1,775.00
LSB#: WY240925JT025
Make: Winchester Repeating Arms
Model: 1894 Carbine Rifle
Serial Number: 1129947
Year of Manufacture: 1940
Caliber: .30-30 WCF
Action Type: Lever Action
Markings: The left shoulder of the barrel is marked “WINCHESTER PROOF STEEL – MODEL 94 – WINCHESTER – TRADE MARK – 30 W.C.F. – The right side of barrel is marked ‘’MADE IN U.S.A. WINCHESTER REPEATING ARMS CO. NEW HAVEN. CONN. On Tang ‘’WINCHESTER – TRADE MARK – MADE IN U.S.A. – Under receiver is serial number ‘’1129947’’
Barrel Length: 20”, Round
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a covered fin blade. The rear sight is a leaf spring elevator sight with elevation adjustment, dovetailed to the barrel.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are 2-piece smooth walnut, straight grip, straight comb, and steel buttplate. The stocks have some light scattered light nicks, scuffs and scratches. The LOP measures 13” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The plate is worn lightly. Overall, the stocks are in about Fine condition.
Type of Finish: Blue, Case Hardened Lever and Hammer
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp, In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 9.5/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 98% of its metal finish. There are scattered light nicks and scratches. The balance of the finish is generally strong throughout. The action shows light operational wear. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle is in excellent condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The hammer has a half-cock safety.. The trigger is crisp. We did not fire this rifle.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None
Our Assessment: The Winchester Model 1894 Carbine, often chambered in .30-30 Winchester Center Fire (W.C.F.), is one of the most iconic lever-action rifles in American history. Designed by legendary firearms inventor John Browning, the Model 1894 was introduced by Winchester in 1894 and quickly gained fame for its rugged reliability and versatility. It was the first commercial sporting rifle designed for use with modern smokeless powder cartridges, making it revolutionary for its time. The .30-30 W.C.F. cartridge, introduced in 1895, became synonymous with the Model 1894 and was the first small-bore sporting cartridge loaded with smokeless powder. Known for its effective range and moderate recoil, the .30-30 W.C.F. became the quintessential deer hunting round in North America. The combination of the Model 1894 and the .30-30 cartridge cemented the rifle’s reputation as a lightweight, fast-handling firearm perfect for hunting in dense woods and rugged terrain. The carbine version of the Model 1894, with its shorter barrel and lighter weight, was particularly favored by ranchers, hunters, and outdoorsmen. Its saddle ring made it popular among horse-mounted users in the West, further solidifying its place in American folklore. During its long production history, the Model 1894 became one of the best-selling sporting rifles in the world, with over 7 million units produced. It was used not only for hunting but also as a utilitarian firearm on farms and ranches. The rifle’s enduring design and adaptability have kept it in production for over a century, a testament to its timeless appeal. Today, the Winchester 1894 in .30-30 W.C.F. remains a beloved firearm among collectors, hunters, and enthusiasts, celebrated for its historical significance and connection to America’s frontier heritage.
