The legendary Winchester 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. It is the direct descendant of the Henry rifle and traces its lineage back to earlier repeaters like the Volcanic. This rifle was manufactured in 1870 as a third model with the serial number stamped in block numerals behind the trigger and the distinctive brass receiver has the more moderately curved shape at the rear when compared to the earlier first and second models. The top barrel flat is stamped with the two-line Winchester New Haven address/King's improvement patent marking just ahead of the rear sight. The rifle is fitted with a German silver blade front sight and a non-factory period replacement fixed notched rear sight. Sling swivels are mounted on the underside of the brass forend cap and walnut stock. The brass buttplate contains a four piece cleaning rod.

Very good. The barrel and magazine tube retain 20% original blue finish in and around the sheltered areas with a smooth brown-gray patina on the balance. Traces of original niter blue remain on the loading gate. The crisp brass has an attractive aged appearance with some tool-like marks at the tight fitting side plates and filing visible on the extractor. The period refinished wood is good with a couple chips and cracks on the forearm towards the cap and slight stress line at the upper tang, otherwise minor dings and scratches. Mechanically excellent. A solid example of Winchester's legendary Model 1866 Rifle.