Generally there is no difference in 86 frames as far as caliber. I said generally because some of the 1886s in 50 EX were hand modified by Winchester.
The major transition in 86 frames when Winchester modified the frames for smokeless powder, these are commonly referred to as “smokeless” frames, while the earlier frames are referred to as “black powder” frames. Then very late in the 86 production Winchester incorporated the screw in magazine tube.
Actually, there is a difference in receivers, but not due to caliber. The differences are due to date of manufacture.
TYPE 1: up to about serial # 83,000 – the height of the receiver is 2 13/32″ (measured at the front of the receiver).
TYPE 2: from 83,001 to end – the height is 2 5/32″
TYPE 3: take-down receivers which also had the same dimensions and dates as above.
"This is the West, sir. When the legend becomes fact, print the legend."
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