In 1866 the New Haven Arms Company changed its name to Winchester Repeating Arms Company. The Model 1866 was the first firearm to be built under the Winchester name. It was a much improved version of the Henry, with such improvements as the solid magazine tube, the loading port and the addition of a forearm. They were extremely popular on the Frontier West in the post-Civil War era and typically saw extremely heavy use. This is a Third Model that was manufactured in 1870 and features a 24 inch octagon barrel and a full length tubular magazine. The rifle is equipped with a fixed front sight and a ladder rear sight. The top of the barrel is marked "WINCHESTER'S-REPEATING ARMS, NEW HAVEN. CT./KING'S-IMPROVEMENT-PATENTED-MARCH 29, 1866, OCTOBER 16, 1860" ahead of the rear sight. The serial number is marked on the lower tang ahead of the lever latch. The smooth forearm and straight grip stock feature sling swivels, brass forend cap and brass buttplate with a cleaning rod compartment (cleaning rod not included).

Good. The barrel and magazine have a smooth dark gray patina showing some minor pitting. The brass has an attractive even patina. The refinished wood is also good with a few putty filled blemishes and some scattered minor pressure dents. The buttplate has been period modified on top heel. Action functions well but lever is loose.