Winchester 1885 .308 Win Falling Block Single Shot Rifle Japanese made
WOA#: WY220722BS001
Sold For: $1,402.01
Make: Winchester
Model: 1885
Serial Number: 022822PSAR
Year of Manufacture: Pre-1898 design
Caliber: .308 Winchester
Action Type: Single Shot, Low Wall, Lever-Actuated, Exposed Hammer Falling Block Rifle
Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “WINCHESTER Model 1885 Cal. 308 Win ONLY”. The right side of the barrel is marked “Made by Miroku – Japan – – Imported by BACO, Inc, – Morgan, Utah. Winchester is a registered trademark of Olin Corporation”.
Barrel Length: 27” Octagonal
Sights / Optics: There are no attached sights
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are smooth walnut with checkered grips, and a rubber buttplate. There are some scratches throughout including 4 deep scratches on the left side. See pictures for more information. The LOP measures 15” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate, which shows no wear. The stocks rate in about Very Good-Good overall condition.
Type of Finish: Blue
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 99% of its metal finish. The balance of the finish shows a few tiny scattered marks, none of which draw attention. The rifle looks to have seen minimal use if any at all. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are crisp. Overall, this antique designed rifle rates in about Excellent condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We have not fired this rifle. As with all previously owned firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: none
Our Assessment: From the Winchester Collector Association, “The Model 1885 Single Shot rifle was John M. Browning’s first design and patent, and it was the first single shot to be built by Winchester. The patent for the Model 1885 rifle was what brought John M. Browning and the Winchester Repeating Arms Company together for the beginning of their eventual 19-year association. Nearly 140,000 Model 1885s were manufactured from September 1885 to June of 1920.” Many would consider the Model 1885 to be the greatest single shot ever designed. Amongst the earliest of Browning’s designs, and the first produced by Winchester. This Winchester is a modern take on the 1885 classics. Licensed by Winchester, this rifle is produced in Japan by Miroku with Browning’s blessing, and as such is chambered in modern ammunition unlike its historical black powder equivalent. Grab up this rifle and get all the charm of Browning’s first design without sacrificing modern comforts! Please see our photos and good luck on this historically rich firearm!