Bert H. said
Aaron,

Hello & Welcome to the WACA

Even though I am a diehard Single Shot man/collector, my recommendation for your first Winchester (that also meets your parameters) would be to purchase a Model 1873 Sporting Rifle in 44 WCF.  They are easier to find than most other pre-1900 models, and they have a much longer and distinguished history with the west than any other Winchester model.  If you want something that is a bit more “modern”, an early production Model 1894 in 30 WCF (30-30 Win) is another great choice.  A third option would be a Model 1892 in 44 WCF, but they tend to be a bit more expensive in decent condition.

Regardless of which gun you choose, be sure to ask lots of questions before “pulling the trigger” and spending your hard earned $$$$.  The Cody show will be a great place to find many guns to look at and find one you like.

Bert

  

Thanks Bert! All three of those are on my ‘list’; Along with 1886 in 45-70/90 and 1895 in 30-40 Krag. There’s so many to choose from, so i had to refine the search somehow and will more than likely need to refine it further. I’ve been to the museum a couple of times, but cant wait to go back with more knowledge in hand (to drool lol). Since I’m not one to get into bidding wars online, the Cody show will be on my calendar. 

Jeremy P said
You’ll be refining for awhile! One thing I’ve learned is just when you think you have an INKLING of knowledge/experience, BAM you get hit by the experience bus. I’m still in that phase where I want one of everything and unfortunately, I’m not independently wealthy…still working my ways towards a narrower passion….my first goal has been one of every model lever-action (Winchester only) and I’m close but I may narrow down later and really get into something. It’s a disease this collector stuff. Welcome!

  

Thanks for the advice Jeremy! I know i’ll want one of each and thankfully i have plenty of time to do so. The hardest part is just getting started haha! Most people learn by buying first, asking questions later. After researching some prices I’m definitely in the boat to ask first, buy later. I’m just not wanting to get burned right off the bat. It doesn’t help that buying firearms from estate sales and garage sales are no longer a thing. I don’t mind paying up within reason, but everybody seems to know what they have now-a-days. Yup, collecting is a disease.. 100% haha.  

TXGunNut said
Welcome to the affliction, Aaron! If you had the good sense to bring a big ball of string to find your way out of this rabbit hole toss it aside, you’ll be too busy gathering up stuff you’ll enjoy. 

You have already made two wise decisions. Keep reading that Madis book and forum posts. My advice is to consider the Madis book(s) a start of your reference library. Good reference books may seem pricey until they keep you from making a poor buying decision or help you recognize a hidden gem. My modest reference library is probably the best money I’ve ever spent.

Your first gun? Something you won’t be afraid to perform minor maintenance or repairs on, something with solid mechanicals and a good bore so you can shoot it if you’re so inclined. It doesn’t matter what kind of gun I like, or any other member for that matter. Figure out what YOU want, find an example you can afford and go for it. If that gun doesn’t come up just keep reading and watching, it will come along if you’re patient. 

Congrats on your upcoming nuptials, hope she’s a good sturdy woman with a good sense of humor to help you carry your acquisitions out of the gun shows. Hope to meet you in Cody!

 

 

Mike

  

Thanks Mike! I appreciate the advice. Definitely a ton of great info in the books I’ve been reading.. In a way, too much haha. Once i get my first, the rest will follow (along with the direction i want my future collection to go). For the most part, i know where my focus is on when it comes to choosing a specific model and caliber. It’s more exciting to research when you have one in hand to compare lol. A ton of big players online which i’d prefer not to compete with and oddly, not finding much locally (let alone quality). My eyes and ears are open, but most of my attention is directed at the Cody show. Thanks!