The Model 1866 or "improved Henry" was one of the earliest and most widely used repeating rifles in the American West and saw use in conflicts over land, gold, and other resources on the frontier in the second half of the 19th century in the hands of settlers, Native Americans, outlaws, lawmen, and hunters. '66s were famously used by multiple Native American warriors during the Battle of Little Bighorn, and many commentators, both now and in the period, including Montana pioneer Granville Stuart, have questioned how that battle's outcome would have differed if the U.S. soldiers were also armed with repeating firearms. Interestingly, the Model 1866 was in fact among the first repeating firearms used by militaries, but it was Native Americans warriors and French and Ottoman soldiers that used them on the battlefield. It is the direct descendant of the Henry rifle and traces its lineage back to earlier repeaters like the Volcanics. The carbines represented 3 out of every 4 Model 1866s making rifles like this comparably rarer. This Third Model was manufactured in 1872 and has a German silver blade front sight, notch and folding ladder rear sight, the two-line address and King's improvement patent marking on top of the barrel, the serial number along with "FB" and "&" on the lower tang, sling swivels on the forend cap and bottom of the butt, smooth stock and forearm, and empty stock compartment.

Very good, mostly faded to an even brown patina overall, attractive aged patina on the frame and furniture, darker right side plate with slight gaps at the top, a series of dings on the cartridge elevator, mild oxidation, and general mild overall wear. The wood is also very good and has mild scrapes and dings, strong varnished finish, and general mild wear. Mechanically fine. This is a classic Model 1866 straight out of the lifetime collection of the late western collector John Fox of Montana that displays attractive frontier character and overall solid condition and will display well in any antique American arms collection. Provenance: The John Fox Collection.