Greetings to all
I have a quick question about an 1886 rifle I have been offered. It is a standard rifle with blued receiver that dates from 1896. It is not a take down. Thought case color was standard until 1902. Was this an option? Haven’t seen the gun yet, wanted some info before making the trip to look at it. Thanks in advance.
Tom,
In answer to your question, Yes, a Model 1886 could have been ordered with a blued receiver frame prior to August 1901 (when case color finishing was discontinued). That stated, it should be noted on a factory letter. Additionally, even on a factory blued gun, the hammer, lever, and steel butt plates were still case color finished. If those parts are blued on the rifle you are looking at, it is extremely likely that it has been refinished.
Bert
WACA Historian & Board of Director Member #6571L
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