Winchester Model 1886 Rifle, .45-70 Caliber – Untouched – 1895 Manufacture

Untouched Winchester Model 1886 Rifle

History

The Winchester Model 1886 in .45-70 caliber is a lever-action rifle designed by John Moses Browning, renowned for its ruggedness and power. Engineered to fire high-powered centerfire cartridges, it quickly established itself as a preferred choice for big-game hunting and military use. Representing a significant technical advancement, it saw widespread use in the United States and abroad, appealing to hunters, marksmen, and law enforcement alike. Produced in various configurations, finishes, and calibers, it remained in production until 1935, with nearly 160,000 units manufactured. Its reinforced action allowed for the use of more powerful cartridges, making it one of the highest-performing rifles of its era.

Our Model

Given the model's rarity and its excellent, entirely original condition, this Winchester 1886—dating back to the close of the American frontier era—is a remarkable collector's piece.

The metal components are free of corrosion and display a beautiful light-grey and tobacco-brown patina, retaining traces of the original bluing. The factory markings are perfectly correct and clearly legible, attesting to its authenticity. The serial number (102XXX) indicates a manufacture date of 1895, lending it genuine historical value. The wood is also in excellent condition, featuring a warm, uniform tone and showing only minor signs of handling or transport, with no major damage. The metal buttplate is correct for the model and is also period-authentic.

Mechanically, this Winchester exemplifies the brand's manufacturing quality: despite being over 120 years old, it remains fully functional. A simple routine lubrication is recommended for optimal performance. Its 26-inch octagonal barrel—chambered in .45-70 Government, a powerful and readily available caliber favored by shooters—features a bright bore with deep rifling, ensuring excellent accuracy.

This superb, rare, and fully functional Winchester Model 1886 in .45-70 will appeal to discerning collectors and historical shooting enthusiasts alike.

This firearm is sold with its Category D classification certificate issued by the BNE (National Proof House) in Saint-Étienne.