This is an attractive Winchester Model 1885 sporting rifle with vibrant color case hardened action. This rifle is documented with a Winchester factory letter dated April 1983 that verifies the exact configuration of this rifle. The letter states it is chambered in 32-40, #3 1/2 octagon barrel, and set trigger. It lists this rifle as being shipped out in February 1892. There is also an interesting Winchester factory notation on the letter that reads, "All new but barrel, which buyer sends in". Quite possibly this was a special order barrel and the customer wanted the entire rifle completely rebuilt, and it certainly has remained in that condition. The rifle has a standard rebated receiver, with the noted #3 barrel that is roll marked on top in two lines "-MANUFACTURED BY THE-/- WINCHESTER REPEATING ARMS CO. NEW HAVEN. CONN. U.S.A.-", with "32-40"just ahead of the receiver. It is fitted with a straight grained, plain walnut "pistol grip" buttstock with a nickel plated Winchester/Swiss double prong, hook buttplate. The forearm is also a straight grained, plain walnut with a factory ebony tip inlay. The barrel is fitted with a Winchester globe front sight, and an early Winchester short folding tang sight is on the upper tang. The trigger plate (lower tang) is roll marked behind the trigger with: "PAT. OCT. 7TH. 79" behind the set trigger, and serial number "52902" is stamped in script numerals ahead of the rear tang screw. The barrel has the standard Winchester commercial blue finish, and the entire action (receiver, breechblock, hammer, tangs and lever) are color casehardened. Tang has the assembly number "1239", and the stock has the assembly number "1383."

Very fine with 95% plus of the original blue finish on the barrel with 80% plus of the original color casehardening on the action with a slightly brown tone overall. The only visible area that shows some fading of the case colors is on the edges and underside of the loading lever. The buttstock and forend both are in very fine condition with most of the original factory varnish, the buttstock showing scattered minor handling marks, the forend showing numerous handling marks on the underside, and a couple of light scratches on the right front side. Truly a super nice high condition early Winchester sporting rifle with beautiful case colors and factory documentation.