Offered here is a highly sought after Winchester "Open Top" First Model 1876 Rifle that has been upgraded to a deluxe model. The rifle has the seldom encountered open top frame whereas the later Model 1876s had dust covers. Approximately 3,000 were produced out of the total of 63,871 manufactured between 1876 and 1897. The accompanying factory letter lists this rifle with an octagon barrel, set trigger, pistol grip stock and casehardened frame. The factory letter also states that the rifle was received in the warehouse on May 20, 1878 and shipped on August 6, 1878. The barrel is fitted with a dovetail blade front sight and a ladder rear sight graduated to 1,000 yards. The top barrel flat is stamped with the two-line address/patent dates marking ahead of the rear sight. The upper tang is marked "MODEL 1876". The serial number is in script font just below the lever catch on the lower tang. The rifle correctly lacks a caliber designation as early production Model 1876s were offered in only in .45-75 WCF. The action is equipped with a documented special order single set trigger. The trapdoor buttplate contains a five piece cleaning rod. The checkered forearm and pistol grip stock are deluxe walnut. The left side of the lower tang is marked "XXX" (spurious) and "157." The assembly number "157" is repeated on the stock inlet and buttplate.

Fine. The barrel and magazine retain 40% original blue finish with thinning to brown on the balance. The frame, hammer, lever and forend cap retain 30% plus original case colors with the strongest colors in the protected areas. 30% original niter blue remains on the loading gate. The wood is very fine with some minor handling marks and crisp checkering. Mechanically excellent.