This is a good example of a First Model Winchester 1890 slide action rifle manufactured on the first day of production with the concealed locking lugs and solid casehardened frame. The First Model variant was only manufactured from 1890 to 1892. Serial number 2 is stamped on the underside of the frame. The serial number on First Models is usually encountered on the lower tang only, but Winchester slide action rifle expert and author Ned Schwing has noted at least one exception where the serial number was located on the frame only like this example. See "Winchester Slide-Action Rifles Volume I: Model 1890 & Model 1906" on page 74. The serial number 2 is a correct factory marking that is an exception to the rule. The rifle has a dovetailed blade front sight and a notch rear sight on a barrel marked with the two-line address ahead of the rear sight and "22 LONG" at the breech. According to the included factory letter, the rifle was chambered in .22 short when it was received in the warehouse on 30 December 1890. The letter lists an additional warehouse date of 22 June 1891. Given the second warehouse date it is possible that the factory changed the caliber to .22 long before shipment without documenting the change in the factory ledger. The rifle was shipped on 23 June 1891 on order number 3331. The upper tang is marked "WINCHESTER/MODEL 1890." The lower tang is marked "PAT. JUNE 26. 1888." Mounted on a 12 groove forearm and smooth straight grip stock with a crescent buttplate.

Good. The rifle has a mottled gray appearance with minor to moderate pitting overall. The wood is good with a couple small hairline stress cracks in the wrist and some minor gouges and scratches. Mechanically excellent. Do not miss your chance to obtain the lowest serial numbered Winchester Model 1890 we have ever offered, serial number 2. A must have for the serious Winchester slide action rifle collector!