This is Winchester Model 1886 Model 1886 Deluxe lever action rifle was manufactured in 1897. The powerful Winchester Model 1886 remains one of the most iconic lever action rifles. It was the first lever action rifle designed by John Moses Browning. Special order '86s remain especially popular, and examples in high condition like this one are highly sought after. Seen as a “working gun” customers were not included to spend extra money on special order feature and as a result, these deluxe rifle are highly sought after by today’s collectors. This example will make for a standout piece in any lever action collection. The accompanying factory letter states the rifle was received in the warehouse on April 1, 1897 and shipped the same day with a half octagon barrel in .45-70 caliber, plain trigger, checkered pistol grip stock, half magazine (4 cartridges), and rubber butt. Although the factory letter references a “rubber butt,” the rifle is fitted with a blued steel shotgun buttplate that has all the appearance of being original, and thus the factory records are in error. The buttplate has the matching assembly number and the lower tang has the “S” marking for shotgun buttplate, rather than "RB" for "rubber buttplate"; further evidence that the steel shotgun buttplate on this rifle is original. The rifle is fitted with a Lyman white beaded blade front sight, a ladder rear sight and a folding tang peep sight. The rifle has the highly desirable casehardened frame. The top barrel flat is stamped with the two-line Winchester legend ahead of the rear sight and the caliber designation “45-70” at the breech. The lower tang has the two-line patent dates marking as well as the serial number. The forearm and pistol grip stock are highly figured XX deluxe walnut and feature factory "H" style checkering. The pistol grip has a hard rubber Winchester grip cap. The left side of the lower tang is marked with the assembly number “354” along with “XX” and “S.” The assembly number is repeated on the stock inlet and buttplate.

Very fine. The barrel and magazine tube retain 85% plus original blue finish with thinning on the balance and the buttplate a mix of original blue finish and brown and gray patina. The bolt retains 95% plus original blue finish. 70% original nitre blue remains on the loading gate. The frame retains 60% vivid original case colors with some light spotting/pitting on the right side. The forend cap, hammer, and lever retain 50% original case colors. The wood is excellent with some minor dings and scratches, most of the original varnish remaining, and overall crisp checkering. Mechanically excellent. An attractive antique special order Winchester Deluxe Model 1886 lever action rifle in .45-70 that will enhance any lever action collection.