The accompanying factory letter for this high condition, highly attractive deluxe Winchester Model 1885 Schuetzen takedown rifle states only that the serial number was applied on January 22, 1913. No other information is provided. These rifles were incredibly popular among early 20th century competition shooters, and takedown deluxe examples like this one are highly sought after by today's collectors. Winchester expert and author George Madis noted that "the combination of a high wall receiver and caliber 22 are not usually seen" ("The Winchester Book," page 264). The rifle is fitted with a windage adjustable globe front sight, scope blocks, and tang peep sight with a staff graduated from 0-75. The rifle is in takedown configuration, and the action is equipped with double set triggers. The no. 3 octagon barrel is stamped with the two-line Winchester address/patent dates legend and "22 SHORT" on the upper left flat. The Winchester factory oval proof is stamped on the barrel and receiver. Note the Winchester proof on the barrel is stamped to accommodate the rear scope block as it is stamped ahead of the block. The forearm and pistol grip stock are checkered and are of nicely figured X deluxe walnut. The forearm has an ebony tip insert, and the pistol grip has a Winchester hard rubber grip cap. The buttstock has a right handed cheekpiece and a Schuetzen type buttplate. The left side of the lower tang is marked "1099 US X." The buttplate is stamped with the matching assembly number "1099" as well as with the number "20600."

Exceptionally fine. The barrel retains 95% original blue finish and the takedown collar and receiver retain 90% original blue finish with thinning to brown on the balance. The buttplate has an attractive plum appearance. 60% original case colors remain on the hammer, breech block, and lever. The wood is very fine with noticeable horizontal scuffing on right side, minor handling marks and overall crisp checkering on the balance. Mechanically excellent.