Winchester collectors seeking you advice and knowledge, I am new to this forum and just came across a Model 94 in what seems to be an un-cataloged caliber. The serial number is in the 4Million range it is a Saddle Ring Carbine with a 20 Inch barrel and the barrel is Marked 44-40 Winchester. The Blue book does not list this caliber for this vintage Model 94. In my research on this board and the internet it seems that Winchester made a number of 94’s in 44-40 for Australia and Canada possibly? My question is around value of this 94 would it be valued as the same as a 44Mag 94 SRC or does the 44-40 caliber add a premium? The gun is in OK shape some minor scratches and minor wear of the cindered finish which I think is typical of this vintage 94. Thanks in advance as any help on this would be outstanding.
Michael
Michael,
Pictures of the gun and any markings would help a lot to tell what you have.
Bob
WACA Life Member--- NRA Life Member---- Cody Firearms member since 1991 Researching the Winchester 1873's
Email: [email protected]
This subject was brought up before but no photos were ever posted.
http://forum.winchestercollector.org/viewtopic.php?t=6016&highlight=winchester+model+1894+4440+cal
Paul
Yes I have a Model 94 in 44-40 in Australia and in fact I was just there for a visit and dragged it out. Mine I believe is a 1972 approx year of manufacturer and I was told that a lot of these went to Canada and to Australia. Now mine does not have a saddle ring and the one here in the photos may have had it added on perhaps. There are many folks here in this forum a lot more knowledgeable than me that could advise on that. I would love to bring it back over here but its just not worth the extreme hassle and cost due to Australia’s draconian gun laws. Mine is not in near the shape this one is as I used to shoot black cartridges through it, mind you I cleaned it religiously after every outing but it still took its toll. Hope this sheds a little light.
The Model 94 pictured is likely a Model 94 44 Magnum made in the early 70s that was converted to 44-40 for some reason – note the "MAG" designation. The one in Australia mentioned without the saddlering is likely a standard Model produced in Canada in the MID seventies and more than likely does NOT have the mag designation and would not have the saddlering. Most of these found in the states have an import marking but not all. Numrich did have some barrels on hand for awhile and that may be the source for the converted magnum. The Magnum mechanism would likely feed the 44-40 with no problem – the reason for conversion is anybody’s guess.
Cheers,
Bob
I have seen a few of these for sale (rarely) since the 1970’s. Winchester also made the Model 94 in one or more Commemoratives in .44-40 as well. I’m confident there are way more of them out there than there are standard carbines in .44-40. I recall seeing several Cheyenne Commemoratives over the years. I think a .44-40 would bring a premium over a .44 magnum given the scarcity and collector appeal. However, one showing wear and hunting dings will have less appeal to a collector.
I have seen several of these rifles.From what I can find out .There seems to of been a demand for a .44-40 rifle in Canada at the time these rifles were made.Why I do not know.Perhaps the .44-40 commemorative of that time ,brought about nostalgia for the old calibre in Canada.Hard to say.At any length ,some .44-40 Model 94 rifles were produced for the Canadian market.
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