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Curious as to opinions, I have a 4 digit (1895 prod) 1894 rifle in 32-20. Letters as shipped w/ 26” barrel. What I’m curious about is that the barrel (all finish orig and obviously old) is 21” which in of it self isn’t uncommon as many rifles were unfortunately modified. I’m curious that all measurements, cuts, notches etc are indistinguishable from factory dimensions and quality… would it be common to find a gunsmith in that time that would be that good? Or is that something that would have been sent back to Winchester and modified after original order date? No way to know for sure I realize. Also is there any way to research order # info as listed on Cody letter?
I will assume that you meant to say that it is a 32-40 (the 32-20 was originally a Model 1873 caliber/cartridge, and was common in the Model 1885 Single Shot and Model 1892).
Does the Factory letter list a “R&R” date and order number? If Winchester reworked the barrel, it should have a “J.P.P.” stamped on the underside of the barrel (under the forend stock) along with an order number. If the letter you have does not indicate a R&R or have the “J.P.P.” marking, you should assume that it was reworked by someone other than Winchester. Yes, there were highly skilled gun smiths back in those days that could alter a gun and make it look proper. No, there are no surviving records that detail what each order number was.
Bert
WACA Historian & Board of Director Member #6571L
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