Manufactured in 1896 according to the serial number range established by G. Madis. The accompanying factory letter lists this rifle with a half octagon barrel in .30 caliber, plain trigger, "plain pistol grip checkered," and half magazine when received in the warehouse on November 24, 1899, and shipped the same day. Dovetailed beaded blade front sight, filler block in the rear sight dovetail, folding Lyman tang peep sight, top barrel flat marked with the two-line address, and checkered pistol grip stock with hard rubber Winchester grip cap. The left side of the lower tang and buttplate are marked "8965," and the stock inlet is unmarked.

Fine, retaining 40% original blue finish mixed with touch up blue and smooth brown patina. There is some minor pitting visible on center of barrel on top of receiver that has been artificially browned. Some original case colors remain on the hammer and lever. The refinished wood is very good with some minor handling evidence and some wear in the checkering. Mechanically excellent.