Any reliable answer to this question would be predicated by an exam by an accredited gunsmith with a knowledge of old Winchesters. Original 44 caliber 1892’s were chambered in 44WCF, not 44 Special or 44 Magnum. 

Mike

Bob dibuono said
Hello, I am new to the site. I’m going crazy trying to figure out what I have here. I recently picked up a model 92 with a Numrich arms barrel marked .44 Cal. Inscribed on the barrel . I called the company in West Hurley, New York and they have no information. Other than that they were produced late 60s early 70s. My question is what does it shoot 44 specials or 44 magnum in the 92, receiver serial number 39602 dated 1894 Can it handle any kind of pressure, what load should I be looking at a load . It looks like a great Rifles to walk the woods with and just plink. It has a half magazine , crescent butt plate, smooth action and I really want to enjoy shooting it however, I do not want to damage it in any way with any high-pressure ammo any help would greatly be appreciated. Does anyone have one on the forum .Thank you so much.

  

Hello Bob,

According to the original production ledgers kept by Winchester atthe time of manufacture your rifle was a standard sporting rifle chambered for 38 WCF adn had an octagon barrel and a full length magazine.  I totally agree with other sugggesting having the rifle looked at by a competent gunsmith.

Michael

rogertherelic said
Would it not be easiest to just see whitch cartridge case will chamber?  A 44 Magnum will not fit in a 44-40 chamber and a 44-40 will not fit in a 44 Magnum chamber.  RDB

  

I agree that identifying the chambering isn’t difficult but I’m more concerned with the quality of the conversion/installation work. I also agree with Mr. Davis about subjecting an early 1892 to 44 Magnum pressures. 

Mike