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October 14, 2018
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I’m thinking about jumping in a little bigger, and I’m looking at this 1886. It’s mid 1890s manufacture and has the correct case-colored receiver, and the sights and wood look original to me. I’m fairly new to this, though, and wouldn’t mind a few more sets of eyes on it before i take the plunge. Does anyone see anything that looks like it is not correct or that would detract from the value(normal wear and tear aside)? Sorry, but this is the only pic I have.Thanks!
June 4, 2017
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Whiskey, When buying a 86 the first question is it original? The 1886 is made of interchangeable parts, the caliber is marked on the barrel, change the barrel and you change the caliber. Change the lower tang and you change the serial number. When you consider a 86 first run the serial number, make sure it matches the configuration. Second inspect the lower tang fit to the receiver, if not perfect in fit and color, do not go any farther. I myself would rather have a honest gun of lesser condition than a composite of parts, so called shooter that someone other than Winchester pieced together. Lots of good pictures and a serial number will help greatly, but it still has to feed and fire. T/R
March 20, 2009
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Whiskey said
I’m thinking about jumping in a little bigger, and I’m looking at this 1886. It’s mid 1890s manufacture and has the correct case-colored receiver, and the sights and wood look original to me. I’m fairly new to this, though, and wouldn’t mind a few more sets of eyes on it before i take the plunge. Does anyone see anything that looks like it is not correct or that would detract from the value(normal wear and tear aside)? Sorry, but this is the only pic I have.Thanks!
Hello,
So far very good advice. And let me add that if you can not get A LOT more real good photos of the gun I wouldn’t even think of it!!!
Michael
Model 1892 / Model 61 Collector, Research, Valuation
October 14, 2018
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TR said
Whiskey, When buying a 86 the first question is it original? The 1886 is made of interchangeable parts, the caliber is marked on the barrel, change the barrel and you change the caliber. Change the lower tang and you change the serial number. When you consider a 86 first run the serial number, make sure it matches the configuration. Second inspect the lower tang fit to the receiver, if not perfect in fit and color, do not go any farther. I myself would rather have a honest gun of lesser condition than a composite of parts, so called shooter that someone other than Winchester pieced together. Lots of good pictures and a serial number will help greatly, but it still has to feed and fire. T/RThanks TR, the lower tang is something I would not have known to check. You mentioned “running the serial number”… I know you can get a factory build letter from Cody, as I did that on my 1894. That takes 6-8 weeks though. Is there someplace you can get an “instant build sheet” using the serial number?
l
I
April 15, 2005
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Whiskey said
You mentioned “running the serial number”… I know you can get a factory build letter from Cody, as I did that on my 1894. That takes 6-8 weeks though. Is there someplace you can get an “instant build sheet” using the serial number?
There is no such thing as an “instant” build sheet unless you happen to be at one of the shows that the CFM records office (Jessica) is attending. Your only other option is to become a CFM member, which allows you to get free records searches, which usually take 24-hours.
Bert
WACA Historian & Board of Director Member #6571L
October 14, 2018
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Thanks, Bert! That’s good to know, and I’ll definitely look into it. I think for now I’ll probably pass on this one, and wait until I have a little more experience before I venture into the more expensive models. And thanks again to everyone who replied; looks like there’s a lot of knowledge here.
December 31, 2012
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Whiskey said
Thanks, Bert! That’s good to know, and I’ll definitely look into it. I think for now I’ll probably pass on this one, and wait until I have a little more experience before I venture into the more expensive models. And thanks again to everyone who replied; looks like there’s a lot of knowledge here.
A little more advice. If possible, buy one with an octagon bbl. They are the best looking of the M1886’s, and all the rest. Big Larry
June 4, 2017
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Big Larry said
A little more advice. If possible, buy one with an octagon bbl. They are the best looking of the M1886’s, and all the rest. Big Larry
I 2nd that motion, the original buyers preferred octagon in the day and collectors do today. I like the look of a 86 with a octagon barrel, full magazine, and a crescent butt. Nice gun Big Larry! T/R
November 7, 2015
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Good move. Keep looking and asking questions, someday you’ll find one as nice as Big Larry’s.
Mike
December 19, 2006
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TR said
I 2nd that motion, the original buyers preferred octagon in the day and collectors do today. I like the look of a 86 with a octagon barrel, full magazine, and a crescent butt. Nice gun Big Larry! T/R
Big Larry,
That is a sweet looking ’86.
You have good tastes.
Jolly
December 31, 2012
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jolly bill said
Big Larry,
That is a sweet looking ’86.
You have good tastes.
Jolly
Unfortunately, my tastes outrun my pocketbook. I traded two very nice Winchesters for this rifle as I doubt I could have afforded to buy it.
It is an antique # 43324, shipped 11-07-1890, and a 40-65. Bore is OK with one small rough spot. Lots of color left and that is what attracted me to the rifle. A good friend brought it to my house and we made a deal. It may well be my favorite Winchester. Yes, I may even shoot it some day. It is very heavy and I may need training wheels on it. Thanks Jolly. Big Larry
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