September 20th 2015 Premier Firearms Sale
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 9/19/2015
Barrel length is 24" in .44-40 WFC. We are offering, for the first time ever that we are aware of, a complete set of Winchester lever action rifles, in all three models, all with the leaf express rear sights and all confirmed by Winchester factory research letters. This would include the Model 1873, the Model 1876, and the Model 1886. The first rifle featured is the Model 1873. The factory letter indicates as follows: Serial number applied: March 1st, 1890; Type: rifle; Caliber: .44; Barrel type: octagon; Trigger: set; Sights: 7-leaf express and Beach, sling and swivels; received in warehouse November 4th, 1890, shipped November 14th, 1890. Rifle sports full magazine which would be proper as standard, not listed and the original leather sling is not present. All other features are as described and the rifle remains in all original untouched condition, having never been altered in any way. All metal surfaces are a smooth patina mixed with gun metal grey, with the exception of the loading gate which retains 75% of the original factory blue finish. Lever and hammer colors have silvered out. The brass carrier is a rich mustard and ".44" is visible, but there are some minor dents. The left side barrel flat at breech is stamped .44 WCF as it had to be moved by factory to allow for the 7-leaf rear sight. This special sight is a thing to behold. It features six leafs numbered one through 6 with platinum center lines, while the last sight is a folding ladder long range type. Sights are excellent, all original pins, no chips or breakage, deeply stamped graduations. Clean screw heads. Original walnut stocks are excellent, have never been freshened up in any way, and are free of cracks with the usual abrasions and ".44" is stamped in right side of stock at plate. Original sling swivels still present. Original globe front sight still present. Perfect action. Bore exhibits strong rifling with usual black powder minor abrasion. To find an original Winchester with the very rare special sights is hard enough. To find one that has never been touched in such lovely, clean, unadulterated condition is even rarer. To find all three models offered in one place, priceless.