The accompanying factory letter for this rifle states the serial number was applied on November 6, 1896 and confirms the .22 short chambering as well as received in the warehouse on November 17, 1896 and shipped on December 1. Replacement beaded blade front and elevation adjustable (1902 and 1901 patents respectively) rear notch sights, first style barrel inscription, "22 SHORT" caliber marking on top flat at the breech, Winchester proofs correctly absent, correct magazine tube without collar, casehardened Second Model receiver with hidden locking lugs, and three-line maker, model, and patent marking on the upper tang. 12 groove slide handle and plain walnut straight grip stock with casehardened crescent buttplate.
Fine with 70% original blue finish, with scattered small nicks and dings. The receiver has 50% original case colors with a light gray patina on the balance, some scattered darker spotting, and crisp tang markings. The wood is very good with a few small scattered dings and mostly dark mottled patina on the buttplate. Mechanically excellent.
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