The Winchester Model 1886 was a rugged rifle designed by John Browning that offered very similar firepower to the earlier Model 1876, but in a smaller, more robust package, all highly valued attributes in the American West that was still far from tamed. This example has the early casehardened receiver, which was only standard on the Model 1886 until 1902. The top barrel flat is marked with the two-line address in front of the rear sight and the caliber marking at the breech. The model designation is marked on the upper tang, and the two-line patent dates and serial number are on the lower tang. It is fitted with a dovetail blade front sight and an elevation adjustable rear sight. The forearm and straight grip stock are plain walnut. The buttstock is fitted with a crescent buttplate. The accompanying factory letter confirms the octagon barrel in .40-65 caliber and plain trigger as well as being received in the warehouse on August 25, 1888 and shipped on October 16, 1888. These "working guns" saw hard use and an generally encountered in rough shape. This example is in well above average condition and will make a highly attractive addition to any lever action collection.

Exceptionally fine. The barrel retains 90% plus original blue finish and magazine tube retain streaks of original blue finish, otherwise faded to plum. The bolt retains 95% original blue finish. 50% original nitre blue remains on the loading gate. The receiver retains 85% plus original case colors. The hammer and lever retain 80% original case colors. 95% original case colors remain on the forend cap. Faded patterns of original case colors remain on the buttplate. The revarnished wood is very fine with some minor handling marks. Mechanically excellent. A solid representative example of the iconic Winchester Model 1886 lever action rifle.