This is a very fine example of a scarce first pattern, Winchester Model 1885 High Wall musket with an attractive color casehardened action in the desirable "45-70" cartridge. This musket was manufactured circa early 1894. This example follows the same basic pattern as the famous first pattern Winder Muskets, only this example is chambered in 45-70 WCF. The receiver as noted was finished in the very desirable "color casehardened" finish which was used until the early 1900s. The receiver features the milled-down, paneled sides, with the unique, two barrel bands on the full length forearm. The sides of the forearm have finger grooves and it is also machined with a ram-rod channel on the underside like the first pattern Winder muskets. This example also comes with an original Winchester/Musket ram-rod. The top of the barrel is marked, behind the lower barrel band and in front of the rear sight with the Winchester factory, two-line address and patent dates. This example is fitted with an early type musket rear sight that is very similar to the Model 1877 Trapdoor rifle rear sight, that is graduated on the side of the base with 1-4 (100-400 yards) and 5-10 (500-1000 yards) on the face of the slide and is NOT adjustable for windage. The breech end of the barrel is only stamped "45-70". The upper tang is unmarked and the lower rear tang is marked with the Winchester factory "PAT. OCT 7th 79"and the serial number. It is fitted with the standard straight grain walnut musket stock with the military style curved steel buttplate, with a set of sling swivels on the underside of the buttstock and the front barrel band. Note that the Model 1885 Musket in the previous lot and this Model 1885 will both factory letter on the same order number 8080.

Fine with 50% of the case colors still remaining on the action with wear on the edges and high spots with the rear areas of the sides of the receiver having turned a silvery gray/brown patina. The barrel retains 80% of its blued finish overall with light wear and thinning on top from handling. The markings are clear and sharp. The walnut buttstock and forend are both in very fine condition with an nice original oil finish showing light handling marks in various places overall. A fine Winchester, Model 1885 Winchester musket with a desirable color casehardened action in the desirable "45-70" cartridge.