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I have a 94, serial # in the 809xxx range which I understand is about 1916 and I have a few questions.
It is missing the saddle ring and would like to find a replacement. Being there is no visible brass on this gun, I assume for this rifle the correct stud and ring would be steel?
The barrel has been replaced at some point in its life. It bears the proof marks from Winchester (P through a W in a circle) on both the receiver and barrel as well as another P in a circle on the barrel. I believe this substantiates it having been replaced by Winchester. The barrel is in nicer blued condition as to be expected. How much would this hurt its value?
Also, can I fire modern 30-30 shells in a gun this old to test its operation?
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The partial serial number you mention (and we frown on partial serial numbers) identifies it as a 1915 production Model 1894.
The douple proof marks on the barrel do not substantiate it being replaced at the Winchester factory. In fact, it more strongly points towards it being replaced by someone other than the factory. If the barrel is marked “30 W.C.F.”, it predates 1951. If it is marked “30-30 WIN.”, it was replaced sometime after 1950. If you pull the magazine tube and forestock off, you will most likely find a 2-digit year number on the bottom of the barrel (near the receiver) that will tell you what year it was made.
As long as there are no mechanical issues, Yes, you can shoot modern manufactured 30-30 ammo in any original Model 1894 that is chambered for it.
Bert
WACA Historian & Board of Director Member #6571L
All saddle rings and studs were steel. The P in the oval indicates that the barrel was replaced in the field, not by Winchester. You should be able to shoot modern ammo if your gun is in good condition.
Bob
WACA Life Member--- NRA Life Member---- Cody Firearms member since 1991 Researching the Winchester 1873's
Email: [email protected]
Bert H. said
The partial serial number you mention (and we frown on partial serial numbers) identifies it as a 1915 production Model 1894.
The douple proof marks on the barrel do not substantiate it being replaced at the Winchester factory. In fact, it more strongly points towards it being replaced by someone other than the factory. If the barrel is marked “30 W.C.F.”, it predates 1951. If it is marked “30-30 WIN.”, it was replaced sometime after 1950. If you pull the magazine tube and forestock off, you will most likely find a 2-digit year number on the bottom of the barrel (near the receiver) that will tell you what year it was made.
As long as there are no mechanical issues, Yes, you can shoot modern manufactured 30-30 ammo in any original Model 1894 that is chambered for it.
Bert
I guess I was told wrong about the proof marks then, but I am more confused now about the age. I was basing the age on Winchester’s documentation of their serial numbers for a model 94 which I understood was just short for 1894. Their chart showing 1916 ranging from 807741 – 821971.
The barrel is marked “30 W.C.F”. I understand this is the same chamber as a 30-30?
The serial number chart you are referring to is not accurate, nor is it “Winchester’s documentation”. The website you found it on is owned by the Browning Arms Company, which is wholly owned by FN Herstal (Fabrique Nationale). They simply copied the information from a published source that has since been proven to be erroneous. If you go to top of our website page, click the “Resources” tab, and then select the “When Was Your Winchester Made?” option, you can access accurate DOM information for many of the various Winchester Models.
In regards to the Model designation, Yes, “94” is the short name for the Model 1894. That stated, Winchester marked them “1894” through early 1919, and then changed the Model designation to “94” for the remainder of its production. Your Winchester is a “Model 1894”, as it is marked on the upper tang.
Yes, “30 W.C.F.” is exactly the same as “30-30”. This is another case where Winchester marked all of them as “30 W.C.F.” through early 1950, and then changed the barrel marking to “30-30 WIN.” for the remainder of its production.
Bert
WACA Historian & Board of Director Member #6571L
Hey fellas, i was wondering what the value of a 1916 Winchester Rifle is i beleive its a 30 / 30 lever action?
Thank you, Desiree
Hello Desiree,
It is not possible to answer your question without considerably more (better) information about your Winchester. The following is a list that I formulated several years ago, and I use to evaluate a Model 1894.
1. Serial number?
2. Caliber?
3. Barrel length?
4. Barrel contour (e.g. octagon, round, or ½ octagon)?
5. Magazine tube length (e.g. full, ½, ⅔ or ¾)?
6. Solid frame or Take Down?
7. Straight grip or Pistol grip butt stock?
8. Plain walnut stocks or deluxe grain?
9. Smooth (plain) stocks or checkered?
10. Standard crescent butt plate or something different?
11. Standard open sights, or special order?
12. Condition of the bore?
13. Condition of the stocks?
14. Condition of the bluing on the receiver frame?
15. Condition of the bluing on the barrel and magazine tube?
16. Condition of the case color finish on the lever, hammer, trigger, forend stock, nose-cap, and butt plate?
In lieu of providing the answers to all of the above questions, a series of clear detailed pictures will provide much of the needed information.
Bert
WACA Historian & Board of Director Member #6571L
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