It is known that Winchester preferred the High Wall Model 1885 action for testing ammunition thanks to the action's simplicity and strength, reportedly even after production of the rifle ended in 1920. Examples of Model 1885 test rifles for .35 Self-Loading (serial number 113121) and .401 Self-Loading (serial number 113122) are pictured on page 45 of the included copy of "The Winchester Repeater" Summer 1987 issue. The article notes that the hole in the top of the breech collar "accepts a copper crusher cylinder. . .that can be measured after the gun is fired to determine the amount of pressure developed in the chamber." Based on the sequential serial numbers of those examples and the fact that this number is only 15 numbers away, it is possible a sequential group of guns in around the 113100-113130 range manufactured in and around 1912 were used for testing a variety of cartridges used in Winchester firearms. The barrel is marked "22 CAL. SHORT. R.F./M.N.S." at the muzzle and "CHAMBER FOR 22 SHORT. DIA OF BORE .291" DIAM. OF RIFLING .224"/3 [triangle] TWIST 1 IN 20" LENGTH OF BARREL 24" FIT RECEIVER NO 1./USE YOKE NO 1. DIAM OF PISTON HOLE .146" NICKEL STEEL. 1912." on top of the breech section. There are proof type marking on the breech and receiver ring. The right side of the receiver at the breech is also marked "NO-1." The upper tang has the three-line trade mark marking, and the lower tang has the serial number. It is fitted with a standard rifle buttstock and buttplate.

Very fine with 80% plus original blue finish, 50% original case colors, moderate overall wear consistent with factory use, smooth brown patina in most of the worn areas, and general marks and scratches. The stock is also very good and has some dings primarily in the wrist, smooth finish, and a few scrapes. Mechanically excellent. This is definitely an interesting piece. Few Winchester collections have one of these unique test guns.