Manufactured in February of 1895, the second month of the second year of production. This Model 1894 rifle features the early "First Model" receiver featuring the "10 o'clock" screw by the loading gate. These First Model receivers are only found on Model 1894s as late as the early 7000 serial number range, but become very rare after around serial number 5220. From serial number 828 to serial number 5220, Model 1894 receivers are approximately split half and half between the First Model and Second Model receivers. It is believed that early on in Model 1894 production, these First and Second Model receivers were produced and assembled simultaneously in different parts of the Winchester plant, leading to this mix of receiver types on these early rifles. Many of these early First Model 1894s saw hard use in the untamed American West, and they remain a desirable collectible in almost any condition, making an example in outstanding condition like this an incredibly scarce, benchmark piece for a Winchester collection. The two-line Winchester address and caliber marking are on the top barrel flat. It is believed that nearly all of these First Model 1894 rifles were chambered in the early and desirable .38-55 caliber. The upper tang is marked with the three-line model, trademark, and patent information, and the serial number is on the bottom of the receiver. It is fitted with a combination front sight, an elevation adjustable buckhorn rear sight, and a Lyman peep sight mounted on the upper tang. It's mounted with a smooth forearm and straight grip stock with a crescent buttplate. The included factory letter confirms the current configuration as well as receipt at the warehouse on 18 March 1895 and shipment on 18 June 1895 in order number 13927.

Excellent, retains 98% plus bright original high polish blue finish, 98% original niter blue on the loading gate, and 95% plus vivid original case colors. The wood is also excellent with some light storage dings and scratches scattered throughout. Mechanically excellent. One of the finest, early production, standard .38-55 Winchester Model 1894s extant!