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May 4, 2013
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I have the opportunity to purchase an 1895 Carbine in 30-40. The serial number is 2495. Please note, I am a rookie here but the way I read the info in the current blue book, the flat sides which this rifle is definitely not, had serial numbers from 1 thru 5000. My question is of course were a few non flat sides also manufactured in this 1-5000 serial range. This rifle has major engraving done to the forearm & straight grip. NOT factory though. The gentleman’s grand father did this himself I have been told. This is a straight up guy and I have absolutely no reason not to believe him. Now he did a wonderful job but how will this affect the collectability and the value of this rifle. Other than the wood engraving the rifle is in fine working order I am told but with very little bluing left. I have a photo here but cannot figure out how to download it to this post
April 15, 2005
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With the serial number you mention, it most definitely should be a flat-side receiver frame. I recommend double checking the serial number for one more digit.
Bert
WACA Historian & Board of Director Member #6571L
May 23, 2009
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I concur with Bert and would add that I wouldn’t pay too much. The non-factory engravings drop the value way down.
Sincerely,
Maverick
WACA #8783 - Checkout my Reloading Tool Survey!
https://winchestercollector.org/forum/winchester-research-surveys/winchester-reloading-tool-survey/
May 4, 2013
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Thank you gentleman for your replies. I am actually trying to buy a couple of very nice Model 70’s off him and he just happened to tell me about and show me a picture of this 1895 his grand father owned all his life as he knows I am more into collecting lever action rifles rather than bolt guns. He is pretty reluctant to part with it but he has a couple of daughters who unfortunately have very little interest in firearms.
But these are 2 very nice pre war 70’s he has in exceptional shape.
thx again
May 4, 2013
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With regard to this 1895, I received some additional information regarding the serial number and lettering from this gentleman. He is probably going to keep it (but I did get some nice Model 70’s) however we are both very curious if some of you could clear this little mystery up. This is what he just sent me…
[color=red:43c439ebd8]The model 95 has become more of a question about its origin than what it is actually worth. I did some investigating on the gun and here is some more information on it:
1. The serial number is under the lever, crosswise on the tang of the receiver and is 2495 with no hint of another digit (or room for another digit on the tang).
2. Under the wooden barrel cover is the following information:
a. Nickel Steel Barrel, especially for Smokeless Power, 30 US and a proof mark. (The proof is a base line, vertical post with triangular flag and has two "arms". like a little stick man a kid would draw
3. On the left side of the receiver, there is the following: USA Patent Nov.5.95, Nov.12.95, Aug.17.97, Jan.25.98 and one more date Aug. “ “. I am unable to read the rest of the date as it is under the peep sight mount.
4. On the top of the receiver is the same proof mark and 30 US again.
I will most likely keep the 95 because of its family ties but it would be wonderful to be able to explain the date of manufacture and the odd
serial number.[/color:43c439ebd8]
Please keep in mind I am sure you fellows have forgotten more than I know about 1895’s but this one most definently is NOT a flat side. I would love to email a picture of it if you can help here. Whats with the 4 digit serial number
April 15, 2005
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You can send pictures of it to me at [email protected]
Bert
WACA Historian & Board of Director Member #6571L
July 7, 2011
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Here are the only 2 photos that steelslide has of the 1895 at this time.
http://s1224.photobucket.com/user/oldguy67/media/1894%20others/1895_3_zpsd45d04bc.jpg.html
http://s1224.photobucket.com/user/oldguy67/media/1894%20others/1895_1_zps73d15e5f.jpg.html
September 9, 2011
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There are some second model 95’s known below serial number 5000, but I don’t think this is one of them. With the added carving and possibly holes drilled for the receiver sight, I would happily let him keep it.
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