This is an example of a Third Model Winchester Model 1866 Lever Action Musket that was manufactured in 1870. This third model musket has a 27-inch round barrel with 24-inch magazine and three barrel bands. The barrel has raised block front sight base that serves as a bayonet lug and an adjustable, folding ladder rear sight. Sling swivels are fitted on the middle barrel band and the stock. The musket has a brass receiver and carbine style buttplate with sliding butt trap and contains a four piece cleaning rod. The stock and 3/4-length forearm are oil-finished walnut. The top of the barrel is roll-stamped with the two-line legend: "WINCHESTER'S-REPEATING-ARMS. NEWHAVEN.CT./KING'S-IMPROVEMENT-PATENTED. MARCH 29.1866. OCTOBER 16.1860" between the lower barrel band and the rear sight. The socket bayonet is bright and has a 15 1/2 inch angular blade.

About good. The barrel, magazine and bands have a pewter-gray patina with extensive moderate surface pitting and the markings are light but legible. There is heavy pitting on the bottom of the loading lever and areas of lighter pitting throughout. The otherwise very good brass receiver and buttplate have been lightly cleaned (during period of usage) and have some scattered minor dings and scratches. The side plate edges are tight. The stock and forend have been sanded and refinished and are both in fair condition with heavy wear. Mechanically fine. The bayonet has been cleaned and is bright with moderate-heavy pitting.