Manufactured in 1880. The accompanying George Madis letter states Madis examined this Model 1876 carbine "inside and out" and found it to be "all original as made by Winchester in 1880." According to Madis, this Model 1876 will factory letter as being received in the warehouse on June 2, 1881 with nickel plated frame and saber bayonet. "Because of the special and unusual features," continued Madis, "there was a delay between the date of manufacture and the date the gun was received in the warehouse." Model 1876 carbines fitted with saber bayonets are exceedingly rare, and the bayonets are among the most sought after early Winchester accessories. The saber bayonet was more commonly reserved for Model 1876 muskets. Madis rightfully proclaimed "carbines with [bayonet fittings] are almost impossible to find" and this carbine was "one of the rarest Winchesters seen in over forty years of observing and studying Winchesters." In fact, Madis states that he had examined "more 1 of 1,000 Model 1876s than Model 76s made for saber bayonets" and "it is likely that another carbine with saber bayonet will not be found in the 1876 model." The correct and rare saber bayonet with the scabbard is included. The 20 inch blade is marked with "crown/C" and "crown/W" proofs. The 23 1/2 inch barrel has a carbine type front sight set farther back from the muzzle when compared to the standard 22 inch carbine barrel in order to accommodate the saber bayonet. The saber bayonet lug is on the right side of the forend cap. The barrel has a carbine type front sight, folding ladder rear sight, and the two-line Winchester address/King's improvement patent dates marking stamped on top. The carbine lacks caliber markings. A saddle ring is on the left side of the receiver. The dust cover has serrations on the tail and follows a guide rail secured to the receiver by two screws.

Very good. The receiver retains 30% period replated nickel finish; otherwise, the carbine has a mottled brown-gray patina. The wood is also very good with a splice repair on the stock wrist (right side) and some minor to moderate dings and scratches. Mechanically excellent. The bayonet is fine with the blade having a gray mottled patina and the brass has an attractive appearance. The leather covering on the scabbard shows some age cracking and some moderate handling/storage evidence. An unusual Winchester Model 1876 carbine missing from even the most advanced Winchester collections.