Lot 50: Winchester Model 1866 Saddle Ring Carbine

This is a Winchester Fourth Model 1866 Saddle Ring Carbine that was manufactured in 1891. The carbine has the iron buttplate found on late production Model 1866 rifles and carbines. The 20-inch round barrel has two barrel bands with a block iron front sight and folding leaf rear sights. The left side of the receiver has a staple-mounted saddle ring. The top of the barrel is marked "WINCHESTER-REPEATING-ARMS NEW HAVEN CT. / KING'S-IMPROVEMENT-PATENTED-MARCH 29. 1866.OCTOBER 16. 1860". Between the lower barrel band and the rear sight. The caliber "44 B" is stamped on the top of the barrel between the rear sight and the receiver. "44 CAL." is inscribed on the bottom of the cartridge elevator. The serial number is located on the lower receiver tang behind the loading lever latch. Blue barrel and magazine tube, casehardened hammer and lever and mounted with a smooth forearm and straight grip stock with steel carbine buttplate with compartment, (cleaning rod not included).

Very good. The barrel and magazine tube have a smooth mottled gray patina. The hammer shows strong original case colors on the left side with a smooth dark mottled patina on the balance. The lever has a smooth dark mottled patina with a small amount of minor spotting. The receiver has an attractive aged patina. The wood is also very good with a small sliver absent on the upper left front of the forearm and overall scattered minor dents and scratches. The markings are clear. Mechanically excellent. This example would make a fine addition to any collection as it is in a solid original condition that is seldom found.