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Scarce Remington-Lee Model 1885 Navy Contract Bolt Action Rifle

Currency:USD Category:Firearms & Military / Long Guns - Rifles Start Price:900.00 USD Estimated At:1,800.00 - 2,750.00 USD
Scarce Remington-Lee Model 1885 Navy Contract Bolt Action Rifle
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Scarce Remington-Lee Model 1885 Navy Contract Bolt Action Rifle

Developed in 1879 by James Lee who also invented the Model 1875 vertical Lee and Winchester Model 1895 straight pull rifles. The Lee rifle company originally issued a contract to the Sharps Arms Company to manufacture these rifles for the Navy, however in 1881 all the tooling fixtures and gages were turned over to the Remington Arms Company who actually completed the contract for the Navy. There were approximately 1,500 made in total and are identical to the commercial rifles except for the receiver markings of: "U.S.N./anchor/ No. 3222 /H.H.E." The top of the left side of the receiver is marked with "REMINGTON ARMS CO./ILLION N.Y. U.S.A./ SOLE MANUFACTURERS & AGENTS" followed by serial number: "52409". The left side of the receiver is also marked: "PATENTED NOV 14th 1879". The barrel is fitted with a fixed front sight and Model1884 Buffington rear sight, that is adjustable for both windage and elevation. It has a standard full length walnut stock that has been stamped with the rack number of "208" on the right side of the buttstock. It is complete with an original cleaning rod.

Manufacture: Remington Arms Inc
Model: 1885
BBL: 32 1/2 inch round
Stock: walnut
Gauge: 45-70
Finish: blue
Grips:
Serial Number: 52409

Fine with 40% of the blue finish remaining with the balance of the finish having browned out, with some light finish loss on top of the receiver ring. The markings are clear and sharp. The stock is very good plus with a nice dark brown color overall, and some minor handling marks and pressure dents on the side of the buttstock and sides and underside of the lower forearm area below the rear sight. Mechanically excellent.