Winchester Model 1886 24″ .33 WCF Lever Action Rifle, MFD 1902 C&R
SOLD FOR: $1,553
WOA#: WY240201KD036
Make: Winchester
Model: 1886
Year of Manufacture: 1902
Caliber: .33 WCF
Action Type: Lever Action, Tubular Magazine Fed Rifle
Serial Number: 128081
Markings: The top of the barrel is marked “MANUFACTURED BY THE / -WINCHESTER REPEATING ARMS CO. NEW HAVEN.CONN.U.S.A-”. The top of the chamber is marked “.33 W.C.F.”. The left side of the barrel is marked “NICKEL STTEEL BARREL / ESPECIALLY FOR SMOKELESS”. The top tang is marked “MODEL 1886”. The bottom tang is marked “128081” at the rear.
Barrel Length: 24”, Round
Sights: The front sight is a blade dovetailed to a base forged to the front of the barrel. The rear sight is a buckhorn elevator sight v notch dovetailed to the barrel.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are two-piece smooth walnut with capped forend, straight grip, straight comb and checkered steel buttplate. The stocks have scattered nicks, dings, scuffs and scratches. The nicks are dark with stain. The LOP measures 13 1/8″ from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. There is a small crack in the bottom of the forend at the receiver. Overall, the stocks are in Fine condition as refinished. The cap and buttplate have been case colored. The stock fits just shy of the tangs and receiver.
Type of Finish: Color Case Hardened, Blued
Finish Originality: Refinished
Bore Condition: The bore is dark. The rifling is well defined. There is erosion throughout. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 5/10 for C&R.
Overall Condition: The rifle retains approximately 99% of its finish. The screw heads range from sharp to tool marked with strong slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle is in Fine condition as refinished C&R.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly and smoothly. The lever locks up solidly. 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 1886 is a cornerstone in the evolution of repeating rifles, designed by the legendary John Moses Browning and initially produced by the Winchester Repeating Arms Company. This rifle was introduced to the market in 1886, at a time when the firearms industry was seeking more powerful lever-action rifles capable of handling the larger and more potent cartridges necessary for big game hunting in North America. The introduction of the Model 1886 was a direct response to this demand, marking a significant technological advancement over previous models.
Browning’s design for the Model 1886 incorporated a stronger and more robust locking-block system, allowing it to chamber high-powered cartridges that were previously only manageable in single-shot rifles. This innovation not only made the Model 1886 more versatile in terms of ammunition but also significantly increased its reliability and durability. The rifle quickly gained a reputation among hunters and frontiersmen for its ability to take down large game, such as bear and deer, at a time when such capability was crucial for survival and sport.
The Winchester 1886 was produced in a variety of configurations and calibers, including the .45-70 Government, .45-90 WCF, and .40-82 WCF, catering to the needs of a wide range of users. Its production continued well into the 20th century, with over 160,000 units manufactured until its original production run ended in 1935. The rifle’s design influenced future generations of lever-action rifles and cemented Browning’s reputation as one of the most innovative firearms designers of his time.
Throughout its history, the Model 1886 has been celebrated for its accuracy, reliability, and the sheer power it brought to a lever-action platform. It holds a place of honor in the annals of American firearms history, embodying the spirit of innovation and the quest for performance that characterized the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Today, the Winchester Model 1886 is highly sought after by collectors and historical firearms enthusiasts, not only for its historical significance but also for its craftsmanship and the role it played in the development of repeating rifles. Please see our photos and good luck on your bid! – L.S.
