First Year Winchester Model 1892 92 20” .38-40 Lever Action Rifle Antique
SOLD FOR: $1226
WOA#: WY230801JE001
Make: Winchester Repeating Arms
Model: 1892
Serial Number: 9194
Year of Manufacture: 1892, Antique, No FFL Required
Caliber: .38 WCF (.38-40 Winchester Center Fire)
Action Type: Lever Action, Tubular Magazine Fed 9+1 Capacity
Markings: The right shoulder of the barrel is marked “MADE IN U.S.A. WINCHESTER REPEATING ARMS CO. / – NEW HAVEN,CONN. –”. The underside of the receiver is marked “9194” at the front. The upper tang is marked “MODEL 92. / -WINCHESTER- / TRADE MARK REG. U.S. PAT OFF & FGN.”. The left side of the barrel is marked “-MODEL 92- WINCHESTER-38 W.C.F.- / –TRADE MARK–”. The receiver and top of the barrel have WP within an oval Proofs.
Barrel Length: 20” Round
Sights / Optics: The front sight is missing. The rear sight is a ladder sight that’s a U-Notch when folded down and folds up with a sliding u notch elevator. The ladder is marked with “0-20” increments.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are 2-piece smooth walnut with barrel band, straight grip, straight comb, and steel carbine buttplate. The stocks have scattered light-moderate nicks, dings, scuffs and scratches, more in the buttstock than the forend. There are no chips or cracks. There is some pinprick decoration that outlines the edges of the forend and wrist around the tangs and receiver. The same decorative pinpricks form a diamond shape on the bottom of the forend. The LOP measures 12.75″ from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The plate has gone to a light patina with scattered erosion, most notable at the heel and toe. Overall, the stocks are in about Very Good condition as original Antique.
Type of Finish: Nearly all of the finish is worn away.
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no visible erosion to the naked eye. There is some erosion on the edges of the muzzle.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 10% of its metal finish. There is scattered light erosion ,minor pitting and discoloration from oxidation throughout. The receiver appears to have been scrubbed clean with finish scrubbed of the screws as well. There are drag lines on both sides of the receiver. The Saddle Ring is missing from the loop. The front sight is missing. The action shows light operational wear. The screw heads are lightly tooled but retain strong slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle is in Very Good condition as Antique.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The hammer has a half-cock safety position. The trigger is crisp. 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: None.
Our Assessment: The Winchester Model 1892 Carbine holds a significant place in the history of firearms, recognized for its iconic design and widespread popularity. Introduced by the Winchester Repeating Arms Company, the Model 1892 Carbine was a direct evolution of the earlier Model 1873 lever-action rifle, which had already gained immense popularity.
Designed by John Browning, a legendary firearms designer, the Model 1892 Carbine was first chambered in the .32-20 Winchester and .38-40 Winchester cartridges. It was intended to be a more compact and lightweight version of its predecessor, the Model 1873, making it easier to carry and handle, especially for riders on horseback.
The Model 1892 Carbine was notable for its innovative lever-action mechanism, allowing for rapid firing and reloading. Its curved lever, which became a signature feature, facilitated quick cycling of the action. The carbine’s design was well-suited for various roles, including hunting, self-defense, and use by law enforcement.
One of the remarkable aspects of the Model 1892 Carbine was its adaptability to various calibers. Over its production life, it was offered in a range of cartridges, from pistol rounds like .32-20 and .44-40 to more potent rifle cartridges like .25-20 and .44 Magnum.
The Model 1892 Carbine’s design was so successful that it became a favorite among cowboys, lawmen, and outlaws alike during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Its role in popular culture was solidified through appearances in countless Western movies, contributing to its legendary status.
Production of the Model 1892 Carbine continued for several decades, with various improvements and refinements made along the way. It remained a staple in Winchester’s lineup until the mid-20th century when it was eventually phased out.
Today, the Winchester Model 1892 Carbine is regarded as a classic firearm, sought after by collectors, enthusiasts, and those who appreciate its historical significance and timeless design. Its legacy as a dependable, rugged, and versatile lever-action carbine continues to captivate firearm aficionados and pays homage to a bygone era of American firearms innovation.
This 1892 is a first year production which makes this a genuine Antique. It boasts a surprisingly strong bore and mechanics. Replace the missing front sight, slap a saddle ring in the loop, and you’ve got yourself a rifle worthy of any collection or range day lineup. Please see our photos and good luck!