Just to make sure I have this straight – unless a special order was involved, the extra light weight was available in .45-70 only? That’s what I am seeing in my 1916 catalog. We know that any Model 1886 in .33 WCF with a 24 inch barrel is not a, “lightweight.” But 20″ or 22″ inch .33’s could be lightweights? But if so, they would have to be special order?
And, “extra light weight” and, “light weight” are terms that have been used interchangeably?
Steve,
You gave the gist of it correct. That stated, I have encountered ELWs (Extra Light Weight) Model 1886s in all calibers/cartridges except the .50 caliber. The primary consideration is how they were recorded in the factory ledger records. Outside of the ELWs in 45-70 (the only standard caliber), I have encountered a fair number of them in 45-90 WCF and 33 W.C.F.
More often than not, when the term “light weight” is used, the person using it is erroneously referring to a standard 24-inch 33 WCF rifle.
Bert
WACA Historian & Board of Director Member #6571L
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