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Hello!
I’ve been browsing this group and wanted to share the 94 that I inherited from my Grandpa. Unfortunately, I don’t have any story behind where he got it but he was always very proud of it.
I’m excited to have it and was surprised when I looked up the SN to see it was manufactured ~120 years ago!
It doesn’t have a saddle ring (see pics) and I’m not sure I see where the saddle ring would go. There are two holes that look like they could have a ring screwed in but this is different from other pictures I’ve found.
Also, just looking for any general care tips. A lot of advice out there, but is there anything I should definitely do or avoid doing to keep this in good shape?
Hello William,
Your Winchester Model 1894 is a Take Down Sporting rifle versus a Saddle Ring Carbine. The serial number tells us that it was manufactured in February 1904 (so Yes, it is nearly 120-years old).
The (2) extra holes in the left side of the receiver frame are unfortunately aftermarket work, most like to install a side mount scope base.
Other than those extra holes drilled & tapped into the receiver side-wall, the rifle appears to be in very good condition. Wiping it down with a clean shop towel and applying a very light amount of gun oil to the steel surfaces is most likely all that it needs. Do not put any gun oil on the wood stocks. Instead, use any quality wood furniture cleaning oil on them. I would inspect the rifle bore and clean it if required (I suspect that your grandfather kept it clean though).
Bert
WACA Historian & Board of Director Member #6571L
The holes being aftermarket for a side mounted scope makes perfect sense. I’m sure that isn’t great for valuation but not a big deal to me as I have no intention on parting with it.
Thanks for the advice on care and cleaning!
Also I noticed the lever action is a little stiff, maybe from disuse? Any tips on smoothing that out?
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William S said
Also I noticed the lever action is a little stiff, maybe from disuse? Any tips on smoothing that out?
I just spray the internal receiver parts with Rem oil, especially the firing pin to be sure it is free. A little light gun grease can be applied to the hammer and locking bolt in the high friction sliding areas, that will smooth out the locking of the bolt. Do not get the grease on the firing pin. A grease that is synthetic is necessary in a cold climate. T/R
TR said
I just spray the internal receiver parts with Rem oil, especially the firing pin to be sure it is free. A little light gun grease can be applied to the hammer and locking bolt in the high friction sliding areas, that will smooth out the locking of the bolt. Do not get the grease on the firing pin. A grease that is synthetic is necessary in a cold climate. T/R
Thanks TR! I will give that a try.
When you spray the Rem oil keep the muzzle end down so it does not get to the butt stock. Catch the run off with a rag covering magazine follower. You should limit the amount of oil so as to keep it off the wood. Compressed air can be handy to blow out dirt. That said if your gun is really dirty, remove the butt stock and do it butt end down.
I do only what is needed in an effort to disturb less screws and avoid removing the wood. If someone has been there and done that then you can to if your careful. If you have no experience get help. Slipping off a screw with a poor screwdriver or breaking a sliver of wood off the stock is not good. T/R
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