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I recently had my model 1887 researched by CFM. Results summarized as follows: SN: 45729, Barrel length: 30 in, Gauge: 12, SN applied in 1892.
The barrel measures 30 inches internally from the bolt face to the muzzle so that seems to agree with CFM records. The gauge is marked 12 on top of the barrel, directly in front of the frame ring and reads from the left side of the barrel. Also directly ahead of the receiver there is an oval with a WP inside it. It is not the superposed WP. It is stamped as written above in through the long axis of the oval. This marking is located just above the forestock and also reads from the left. See pictures.
Does anybody have an opinion on whether this is an original barrel? The patina certainly looks original.
Thanks in advance,
Jim
Jim,
I have observed that same “WP” in the oval marking on dozens of original Model 1887 shotgun barrels. Winchester apparently began proof marking the barrels on the Model 1887 well before they did the same on their rifle models.
Bert
WACA Historian & Board of Director Member #6571L
Thanks Bert, I appreciate your input. I expect factory & non-factory replacement barrels have an impact on collector value of vintage rifles and shotguns. Can you make a general comment on this or direct me to resources that cover this topic?
Jim,
With any collectable Winchester, non-factory replaced barrels significantly impact (reduce) the value. My friend Larry and I discussed it more detail in the front matter section of our book “The Red Book of Winchester Values, 4th edition” (available through the Book store here on the WACA website).
Bert
WACA Historian & Board of Director Member #6571L
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