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I have a model 1894, 32WS, manufactured in 1897. The barrel (octagon/round approx. half and half) measures 21 5/8″ and the magazine tube is 3 3/4″ from the muzzle. The letter from Cody provides little insight other than to describe the barrel type as “Round.” The Winchester Redbook references “special order barrel lengths” as a value-added factor but does not elaborate. I would have thought the Cody letter would note a special order. Also, the front sight is 5/8″ from muzzle as opposed to the standard 3/4″.
Anyone have any experience with this? Is it likely a factory modification or an alteration by a gunsmith?
Thanks!
John
John,
The odd length of the barrel and that the letter does not state the odd length leads me to believe it is a aftermarket modification. What is the length of the forearm wood? The Red book is correct if its a Factory Special order barrel length.
Bob
WACA Life Member--- NRA Life Member---- Cody Firearms member since 1991 Researching the Winchester 1873's
Email: [email protected]
Bob – Thanks for the quick reply. I agree with your assessment. The forearm wood measures 9 1/4″. So, not only was the barrel shortened, the magazine tube has obviously been shortened and appears to be attached to the bottom of the barrel using a modified process compared to the standard production. I have to wonder if the owner sent it back to Winchester to have this work done.
Well, we’ll never know for sure but it was an interesting pursuit. The good news is that this rifle was given to me by a family in Northern Maine so it has a lot of sentimental value. So regardless of its diminished cash value I’m happy to have it.
Thanks again for you help.
John
If the gun was manufactured in 1897 and is in .32 Special, it is a replacement barrel as .32 Special was designed in 1901.
You are absolutely right and you have caused me to correct my error . . . referencing the wrong Cody letter! The 32WS in question was manufactured in 1905 and the letter identifies a “1/2 octagon” barrel which, if not a special order, should have been 26″. So it seems reasonable to assume that I’m in possession of an aftermarket modification which, by the way, appears to be very well done.
So thanks to you both (Bob and MRCVS) for helping me think this through. Speaking as a new member, this Forum site has been a tremendous resource thanks to the willingness of its members to share their knowledge.
Again, so much to learn, so little time!
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