The legendary Winchester Model 1866 or "improved Henry" was one of the earliest and most widely used repeating rifles in the American West and saw use in conflicts over land, gold, and other resources on the frontier in the second half of the 19th century in the hands of settlers, Native Americans, outlaws, lawmen, and hunters. It is the direct descendant of the Henry rifle and traces its lineage back to earlier repeaters like the Volcanic. The top barrel flat is stamped with the two-line Henry's patent/King's improvement patent marking. The rifle is fitted with a replacement dovetail blade front sight and a modified rear sight, all done during the rifle's service life to fit the needs of the owner. Stock sling swivel removed and the forend cap has been pinned, all traits of a beloved working gun that served its owner proudly. Smooth forearm and straight grip stock with trapdoor crescent brass buttplate numbered "19686" (cleaning rod not included). Buttstock screw is stripped on lower tang and cannot be removed to inspect serial number.

Fair, displaying alluring, authentic "frontier issued" use with the barrel and magazine tube having an untouched smooth brown patina with traces of original blue finish in the protected areas and the brass having an attractive mellow aged appearance. The receiver has tight fitting sideplates. The wood is also good showing working gun character with absent material from the forearm and a couple stress cracks in the wrist, proving this Winchester has a story to tell! Mechanically fine. A Winchester Model 1866 with the been there, done that appearance of a rifle that saw true period use.