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Scarce Winchester Model 1886 Lever Action Line Throwing Gun with BATF Exemption Documentation

Currency:USD Category:Antiques / Firearms & Armory Start Price:600.00 USD Estimated At:NA
Scarce Winchester Model 1886 Lever Action Line Throwing Gun with BATF Exemption Documentation
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Estimate: $1400 - 2000
These Line-Throwers were legalized by the BATF in 1985 and are listed by serial number, (this particular one listed), in the BATF curios & relic list book. The accompanying Cody Firearm Museum Records Office sheet lists serial number 154429 as a rifle, 45-70 caliber and octagon barrel. Under other features is "Lifeline,14 1/2, smooth bore". The rifle was shipped on 10-05-1918 to Wm. Reed & Sons, Boston, Mass., on order number 871647. There are no provisions for a front sight, and the rear sight has been removed. The left front barrel flat is marked with the two line address/patent dates, the rear barrel flat is marked "45-70", the top flat and top of the receiver at the breech are marked with the Winchester oval proof, the upper tang is marked "MODEL 1886/-WINCHESTER-/TRADE MARK REG. IN U.S. PAT. OFF." and the serial number appears on the lower tang. Mounted with a smooth walnut forearm with a steel end cap and straight grip stock with a steel crescent buttplate.
BBL: 14 1/2 inch octagon
Stock: walnut
Gauge: 45-70
Finish: blue
Grips:
Serial Number: 154429
Condition: Good as refurbished. The barrel retains traces of the reblued finish mainly in the protected areas along the edge of the forearm and the lower flats ahead of the forearm. A smooth brown patina with streaks of original blue on the balance. There is some minor pitting on the top and left flat at the muzzle which shows signs of cleaning. The magazine tube retains most of the original blue finish. The lever has a smooth mottled gray patina. The wood is revarnished and shows overall scattered pressure dents, dings and scratches. The markings are clear. The action is excellent.