Winchester Model 1885 Winder Musket .22 LR, High Wall

Winchester Musket Model 1885 Winder

Manufactured: 1885+ • Caliber: .22 Long Rifle • Untouched Original Condition

This Winchester Model 1885, presented in its highly desirable Winder Musket configuration, was originally intended as a training rifle for the U.S. Army. Chambered in .22 Long Rifle, it remains one of the most sought-after variants among collectors of antique American firearms.

History

The Winchester Model 1885 is one of the most renowned single-shot firearms produced by the legendary Winchester Repeating Arms Company. Designed by the brilliant gunmaker John Moses Browning, it is widely regarded as the first firearm ever commercially manufactured from his designs. Winchester acquired the production rights in 1883 and introduced the rifle in 1885.

Produced in a wide range of calibers, the Winchester 1885 achieved remarkable commercial success. Between 1885 and 1920, more than 130,000 rifles were manufactured. Its exceptional strength, accuracy, and robust action established it as one of the benchmark American single-shot rifles of the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries.

The so-called "Winder Musket" is a military adaptation built on Winchester's famous High Wall action. It was named after Colonel C. B. Winder, who recommended its adoption as a training arm for military marksmanship instruction. Usually chambered in .22 Long Rifle, these rifles were used by the U.S. Army to train recruits with an economical firearm while maintaining handling characteristics similar to those of contemporary service rifles.

Our Example

Retaining a significant portion of its original blue finish, this Winchester 1885 Winder Musket offers particularly attractive overall appearance. The metal surfaces still display substantial traces of their factory finish, reflecting careful preservation over the years.

The manufacturer's markings, along with the ".22 Long R." caliber designation, remain perfectly clear and legible. The wood stocks are in excellent condition, showing their attractive original coloration with only light handling marks consistent with the rifle's age. The steel buttplate remains correctly fitted to the stock.

Mechanically, the rifle is in excellent working order. The lever-operated action opens and cocks smoothly, while the trigger provides a crisp and pleasant release. The 28-inch barrel shows a lightly frosted bore but retains strong, well-defined rifling throughout, preserving excellent visibility of the original interior profile.

This elegant Winchester Model 1885 Winder Musket, chambered in the highly desirable .22 Long Rifle caliber, represents an important piece of American firearms history. Its military heritage, excellent overall condition, and direct connection to the designs of John Moses Browning make it a particularly appealing example for collectors of antique American firearms.

Sold with its official Category D(e) classification certificate issued by the Saint-Étienne National Proof House (Banc National d'Épreuve).