1961 Model 88 .284?|Winchester Rifles|Forum|Winchester Collector

Scott,

Unfortunately, there are no available factory records that we can use to research and answer your questions. That stated, there were a few Model 88 enthusiasts that wrote and published bits & pieces of information about them. 

What I can tell you, is that the “A” suffix on the serial number does not designate a factory replaced action and barrel.  Winchester used the “A” to denote a design or production change to the receiver group.  The “A” suffix is found on all serial numbers after a specific date (I do not know exactly when it first appeared).

In regards to the introduction date for the 284 Win cartridge, I am willing to bet that it was in the latter half of 1962.  A perfect example of Winchester’s lag time between the actual production date, and announcing it to the public, was the Model 1894 in 32 W.S. (Winchester Special).  The first Model 1894 (by date) made in 32 W.S. was serial number 107731, received in the warehouse on 10/5/1901.  Winchester did not publically announce the 32 W.S. until the June 1902 catalog… 10-months later!

Another frequent occurrence, was the use of an older receiver to build a later production gun.  There are many recorded instances were a receiver frame sat in the assembly room for several years before it was finally used to assemble a rifle, and then sent to the warehouse. I suspect that was the case with your Model 88.  A late production pre-64 receiver was used to build a post-63 production rifle.

Bert

More than likely the original stock was high-graded off of your rifle to put on an older rifle, or the original stock on your rifle was damaged and then replaced with a later production stock.

Bert