This is a beautiful example of an extremely rare deluxe engraved and highly embellished Winchester Model 90 slide action rifle that was manufactured in 1929. This is a third model takedown version which features a locking cut made on the front top of the receiver to allow the breech bolt to lock externally. This beautiful rifle has the superb deluxe engraving pattern (with similarities shown on pages 229, 301 and 303 of the book "Winchester Engraving" by R.L. Wilson) that feature a beautiful circular engraved pattern on each side of the receiver. The left side shows a running deer while the right side shows a mirror image of the deer, although standing in a wooded country scene. Both panels are flanked by beautiful large Ulrich style "S" scroll engraving with a fine line border intermixed with a zig-zag/wavy line pattern and punch dot shading. The engraving was also applied on the top, front edge of the lower tang and buttplate heel. This style of engraving was a very popular and highly desirable pattern that was used by many of the master engravers in the late 1800s up through the 1920s. The included handwritten letter by Winchester custom shop engraver and author Pauline Muerrle states the engraving was done by Master Engraver George Ulrich. "This was obviously a special order gun considering the exceptional wood this gun has. It is a very lovely example of Ulrich engraving and overall factory work." According to Muerrle, "the engraving is not a standard factory pattern." The barrel is fitted with a dovetail blade front sight and elevation adjustable rear sight and is marked with the two-line address/patent marking followed by "-MODEL 90-22 LONG RIFLE." on the upper left flat. The Winchester factory oval proof is stamped on the barrel and receiver at the breech. The rifle has a fancy grade checkered pistol grip stock and 12 groove forearm. The buttstock has a hard rubber factory grip cap and a crescent buttplate. The tang has "E 8771 XX" markings confirming the factory work and wood grade. The buttplate and buttstock are also numbered with the matching number "8771".

Excellent. The rifle retains 95% plus original blue finish with the balance a smooth gray patina. The wood is also excellent showing a few minor pressure dents and scratches. The checkering is crisp overall. Mechanically excellent. This exceptionally engraved Model 90 would make a beautiful addition to any Winchester slide action rifle collection.