1496

Winchester Model 1866 Lever Action Saddle Ring Carbine with J.P. Lower Retailer Markings

Currency:USD Category:Antiques / Firearms & Armory Start Price:2,750.00 USD Estimated At:5,500.00 - 8,500.00 USD
Winchester Model 1866 Lever Action Saddle Ring Carbine with J.P. Lower Retailer Markings
In 1866 the New Haven Arms Company changed its name to Winchester Repeating Arms Company. The Model 1866 was the first firearm to be built under the Winchester name. It was a much improved version of the Henry, with such improvements as the solid magazine tube, the loading port and the addition of a forearm. They were extremely popular on the frontier in the post Civil War era and typically saw extremely heavy use. This rifle is a Third Model that was manufactured in 1877 and features a 20" round barrel with full tubular magazine, blade front sight integral to the barrel band and two leaf folding rear sight. The top of the barrel is marked "WINCHESTER'S-REPEATING ARMS, NEW HAVEN. CT. / KING'S-IMPROVEMENT-PATENTED-MARCH 29, 1866, OCTOBER 16, 1860". both front sides of the receiver are marked vertically with the Denver Colorado dealer marking :J.P. LOWER", and the top rear of the receiver has the same marking. The serial number is marked on the lower tang behind the lever. A saddle ring and staple are mounted on the left rear of the receiver The straight grip stock and forearm are varnished walnut with a steel end cap and crescent buttplate with a compartment for a cleaning rod, (cleaning rod included).
BBL: 20 inch round
Stock: walnut
Gauge: 44 RF
Finish: blue
Grips:
Serial Number: 139146
Condition: Very good plus. The metal surfaces have a mostly dark smooth mottled brown patina. The receiver and buttplate have a very attractive, original aged patina. The wood is fine, with the exception of a couple of minor splinters missing on the right wrist at the receiver, there are some dark areas on he forearm and overall scattered minor dings, dents and scratches. The barrel markings are legible, the J.P. Lower markings are clear. The action is excellent.