Bullard rifles are desirable on the collector market today as they were produced only from 1886 to 1890. They competed for sales directly against the Winchester, Marlin and Whitney Arms Company lever action rifles also produced during this time. This fierce competition really stymied their sales creating a very limited production of Bullard rifles, (approximately 10,000 to 12,000). This rifle employs a very long receiver/action that houses a brass cartridge lifting mechanism, (very similar to the Winchester 1876 rifles) to accommodate the larger and longer cartridges. It has a 6 1/4 inch straight cylindrical bolt (similar to the 1873 and 1876 Winchester rifles). This bolt has a unique two-tooth, gear mechanism at the rear that engages a similar two-tooth geared mechanism on the front of the breechblock. This geared mechanism functions off the loading lever and basically acts as the locking lug for the rifle bolt which gave it far more strength to withstand higher pressure of the larger cartridges. The left side of the receiver has a small side plate that allows access to the mechanism inside and the loading gate for the tubular magazine located on the underside of the receiver. This particular rifle has a special order 28" part octagon barrel. It features a full magazine and is equipped with a German silver blade front sight and rifle style ladder rear sight. The left side of receiver has the usual "BULLARD REPEATING ARMS COMPANY / SPRINGFIELD MASS. U.S.A. PAT. AUG. 16. 1881." marking. The right side does not have the Model 1886 markings. The top front of the receiver is marked "Cal / 40" and the serial number is marked on the upper tang directly behind the hammer. Casehardened lever and hammer, and the remaining parts are blue. Mounted with a smooth forearm and straight grip stock with an iron forend cap and crescent buttplate.

Very good. The metal surfaces have a smooth mottled gray patina with traces of original blue finish present mainly in the protected areas of the frame. The frame screws show some marring and there are some minor scratches on the frame. The upper tang has been drilled for sight mounting and screws installed in the holes. The wood has been lightly sanded and refinished and remains very good with a few minor scratches and tiny dings. The markings are crisp. Mechanically fine.