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