This is a fine example of a very late production Winchester Model 1866, brass frame lever action rifle manufactured in 1879. An interesting rifle in that the factory used a 1866 Saddle Ring Carbine receiver casting where they removed the saddle ring staple, plugged the holes and finished it as a standard rifle. It has the less common full length "round" barrel combined with the full length magazine. Additionally, it is fitted with a set of later loop sling swivel bases on the forearm nose cap and toe area of the buttstock. The barrel has the two-line Winchester address/Kings Patent markings and, it is fitted with a Winchester half-nickel front sight blade and adjustable sporting style rear sight. The rifle has the distinctive all brass receiver and side plates with the distinctive flares at the front end where it meets the walnut forend. The serial number is marked on the rear area of the lower tang behind the lever latch. It is fitted with the factory straight grain walnut stock with a steel buttplate with brass trapdoor compartment. It does not have the cleaning rod inside.

Very good plus with 20% of the original blued finish remaining on the metal parts overall with more finish in the protected areas under the forend. The receiver has an old polished appearance that has now mellowed and taken on a subdued look with some heavier scratches on the left side of the receiver. The side plates look original to the rifle and are nice and tight. The stock and forearm have been revarnished (but not sanded) some time ago and have now taken on a very nice original looking appearance showing minor/light handling marks and scratches on the sides. Mechanically fine. A very nice looking Winchester Model 1866 Lever Action Rifle.