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Hi folks,
I enjoy reloading and shooting 45-70, so I’ve decided to start looking for an 1886 in 45-70 to be a companion to my Springfield 1873 Carbine (1882) and Marlin 1895 (1977). As beautiful as the Miroku ones are (I own a Model 94 Deluxe Carbine that is a pleasure to hold and to behold), I’d really like to get a “real” 1886, and I’m looking for advice.
I want something I won’t feel bad about shooting from time to time, but also something that will have some investment value. So neither an all-original 95% safe queen nor a rebuilt / refinished shooter. I’m indifferent on which model of 1886, although I have a slight preference for octagon barrels.
So a few questions…
- Any recommendations on specific models to look at?
- What kind of price point should I be looking at? I have the Red Book, but would also be good to have some idea of what the “sweet spot” is for something like I described above.
- Any leads on reputable online sources or private dealers? The odds of me getting to a decent gun show in the foreseeable future are basically nil.
- Thoughts on either of these specific items:
- https://www.invaluable.com/auction-lot/very-fine-winchester-model-1886-lightweight-rifle-da846468d0
- https://www.gunbroker.com/item/770934036
- https://www.gunbroker.com/item/771508845
- https://www.gunbroker.com/item/770789201 (seems pricey but what do I know)
- https://www.gunbroker.com/item/771588620 (shortened, I assume that’s bad for collector value?)
Thanks!
James
The only one I like is #4 and it does seem a bit pricey, perhaps because it is a consignment. You might look at the 1886’s Merz has for sale to get an idea of what is available and what the top end of the pricing range is.
"This is the West, sir. When the legend becomes fact, print the legend."
You might consider the Browning 1886 made in the 1980s. They are fine guns and have appreciated in value over time.
Wincacher said
The only one I like is #4 and it does seem a bit pricey, perhaps because it is a consignment. You might look at the 1886’s Merz has for sale to get an idea of what is available and what the top end of the pricing range is.
An 1886 in 45-70 can be a pricey gun. Full octagon and crescent butt that is an antique is the most desirable. Leroy Mertz has a lot of nice guns but he always wants top dollar. Buy what you like but buy an antique and the best you can afford. A messed up gun will never have a good resale or trade value. By messed up I mean one that someone messed with, not an original in lesser condition. You can always trade up for more condition. Do not shoot hot loads in the 86. It is a very strong gun but it still can be hurt.
What do y’all think about this one?
https://www.rockislandauction.com/detail/1031/4029/winchester-1886-rifle-4570
Receiver looks to be nickel plated? Or just steel that was scrubbed and polished?
Hard to tell much from the photos. OE – GOOD looks to be their catch-all phrase for “we can’t be bothered to describe this item”. That’s the total description for 6 of the 7 items showing on the page – the other being OE – VERY GOOD. Not much work for an 18.5% buyers premium.
"This is the West, sir. When the legend becomes fact, print the legend."
Online
KeltonCA said
What do y’all think about this one?https://www.rockislandauction.com/detail/1031/4029/winchester-1886-rifle-4570
Receiver looks to be nickel plated? Or just steel that was scrubbed and polished?
More than likely it is scrubbed and polished. Originally, it was case color finished. If you are looking for a “collector” grade Model 1886 Sporting Rifle, that is not the one you want to spend any money on.
Bert
WACA Historian & Board of Director Member #6571L
Ok, good to know.
What about this one: http://auctions.morphyauctions.com/_A__Winchester_Model_1886_Lever_Action_Rifle_-LOT290222.aspx
The receiver, lever, and cap are all somewhat “silvery”, but the presence of the faded colors on the receiver make me wonder if it’s just age and handling rather than scrubbing?
And is the notch in the buttstock for the tang sight a big negative? I’d prefer without, but I’ve seen a few like this so I’m wondering how much it impacts present and future value.
Thanks!
The silvered out case colors are normal for any Model 1886 that has been used for its intended purpose. The only thing I see wrong with that rifle is the “Bubba” wood working efforts. It is also apparent that the Lyman tang sight on that rifle was not factory installed. If you want a “shooter” grade rifle, and it has a good bore, go for it. If you are looking for a rifle with potential as a “collector”, then in my opinion, that is not the rifle you want. The opening bid amount is close to what it is worth. The auction estimate amount is too high in my opinion.
Bert
WACA Historian & Board of Director Member #6571L
Thanks. I’m learning a lot very quickly on this thread… 🙂
Here’s an antique that is not obviously bubba’d. Round rather than octagon, but crescent butt plate:
https://www.gunbroker.com/item/771542719
Red book says $3719 for “serviceable” condition, which is what I would guess this gun is.
No bids yet, so let’s say I can get it for less than $3000.
I certainly wouldn’t feel bad about shooting it a bit. But would this suitable as an “entry level” collector 1886? (keeping in mind previous advice about “trading up” in the future)
The opening bid price $2,589 is more than I would ever consider paying for that rifle, as it has very little “trade up” potential. That rifle is below the 30% graded condition range.
Bert
WACA Historian & Board of Director Member #6571L
I agree with Bert regarding the pricing. I also note you want something you can shoot. The description of the bore would dissuade me. In my experience, the bore description provided by many seller’s is often, overly kind. And as I stated, it already sounds concerning.
You guys are great, thanks! I’ll keep looking…
I might have to scratch the itch with a reasonably priced shooter while looking out for a reasonable deal on a true collectible. 🙂
Any thoughts on a standard rifle vs a lightweight as a shooter? (Assuming similar condition, age, etc?)
If I was looking for a shooter, it would be a standard Sporting Rifle versus an ELW (Extra Lightweight). Your shooting shoulder will thank you…
Bert
WACA Historian & Board of Director Member #6571L
Almost any Winchester with a half mag gives you a way better balance to the feel of the gun. Much lighter too.
Bert H. said
If I was looking for a shooter, it would be a standard Sporting Rifle versus an ELW (Extra Lightweight). Your shooting shoulder will thank you…
Bert
I agree with Bert, the extra weight has an advantage. I would buy an antique OBCBFM gun below s/n 95,000, that gets you the big wood, better resale and collectors love the look. T/R
OBCBFM = octagon barrel, crescent butt, full magazine?
If so, here are two that are OBCBFM and s/n < 95000:
1. https://www.biggerbids.com/auction-image-gallery.html?auction_id=1275767&image_id=7775443
The second is in 40-65.
Where would you place each of these on the grading scale?
Thanks!
Both are purely shooter grade rifles.
Bert
WACA Historian & Board of Director Member #6571L
TR said
I agree with Bert, the extra weight has an advantage. I would buy an antique OBCBFM gun below s/n 95,000, that gets you the big wood, better resale and collectors love the look. T/R
I would agree, depending on the application. If you are shooting from a bench, the heavy rifle has the advantage. If you are carrying it in your hand all day, picking your way through brush pursuing whitetail deer, the lighter (and shorter) rifle is the way to go. Weight and maneuverability has always been key for me in deep woods hunting. A 26 inch OBFMCB rifle (early one with the big stock) stuffed full of .45-70 cartridges is perfect – if you are THOR 
Judging from pictures only, number one looks honest. That gun would look good hanging on the wall, if the bore is shootable, I’d carry it. I took a extra heavy 1876 on a couple hunts, so proud of the gun I didn’t notice the weight. A tuxedo is not comfortable to wear, but it looks good on you. I’d be proud to own a gun in that condition! T/R
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