The young guys at Wards do their best but are not nearly as accurate with their descriptions as we would like.

Three digit serial number carbines went to the Army first, I believe?  Most 1st and 2nd Model carbines have cracked wrists.  These carbines are only partly Winchester.  A lot of parts were made by Springfield Armory.  Like the barrels.

Less civilian rifles in various configurations were made than the Military versions.

Read Herbert House’s book.  Winchester Bolt Action Military & Sporting Rifles 1877 to 1937.  And A Collector’s Guide to Winchester in the Service by Bruce Canfield.

I am not saying this is a bad carbine but don’t be shocked when the barrel address says Springfield.  There is no barrel address.

Anthony said
Chuck,

That’s a great bit of advice and knowledgeable expertise that you added! I agree with you on the Ward’s descriptions, in General, and there’s room for improvement with their picture selection and or lack of! Keeps many from bidding and going after a lot of their stuff!

 

Anthony

  

I misspoke again.  The Military barrel is not marked Springfield.  But they were made at the Springfield Armory.

Here is a picture of the underside of my Hotchkiss carbine.  The forend cap opens up to access the cleaning rods.

I learn something almost every day but I think I loose more than I get.

Chuck said
Here is a picture of the underside of my Hotchkiss carbine.  The forend cap opens up to access the cleaning rods.

  

That’s pretty slick, Chuck. I’ve enjoyed gazing on a few Hotchkiss carbines and never noticed that! 

Mike