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July 13, 2015
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Hello WACA,
New to the forum, and I’m wondering what my Winchester might be worth. A few months ago i had acquired a bulk lot of old firearms from a colleague, most of the rifles were rimfire except for one lever action. I took it to the local gun shop to see if i could get some more information on it; manufacturing date, value, or even if it was safe to shoot. The clerk flipped through a couple books and had said it was pre 64 and that it didn’t look original, but he’d being willing to buy it for $200. Skeptical of his honesty, i decided to hang on to it till i could find out some more information, which brings me to you folks. Any information would be greatly appreciated, feedback on whether or not i should restore it or leave it as is, possibly even a thought on what it might be valued at. serial number# 193978
Pictures in link below:
Thank you in advance,
Chris
April 15, 2005
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Hello Chris,
Take the $200 offer if you want to move it quickly. If you decide to keep it, you might find a private buyer willing to pay $400 – $500 for it, but it truly is not worth that much.
It is a Model 1894 Sporting Rifle, manufactured in the latter part of the year 1903… but that is where the good news ends. Sometime after 1903, the original barrel and magazine tube were removed and replaced with a barrel that was manufactured sometime after 1931. At the time the barrel was replaced, the receiver frame and ancillary parts were refinished (reblued). Additionally, the stocks were moderately to heavily sanded and improperly refinished. This rifle is not a good candidate for a “restoration” as the cost to have it done would far exceed what its value would be.
Only a gunsmith can tell you if it is still safe to shoot.
Bert
WACA Historian & Board of Director Member #6571L
