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Rare 20 Inch Barrel Winchester Model 1885 Low Wall Single Shot Carbine with Factory Letter

Currency:USD Category:Antiques / Firearms & Armory Start Price:1,800.00 USD Estimated At:NA
Rare 20 Inch Barrel Winchester Model 1885 Low Wall Single Shot Carbine with Factory Letter
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Estimate: $4500 - 6500
It is estimated that only about 1,900 Model 1885 carbines were manufactured, 1,200 with 15" barrels, (standard length), and 700 with other sized barrels, 16", 18" or 20". The majority were made with the Low Wall action, however some High Wall actions were used on larger caliber carbines. These carbines were often called "Baby Carbines" and were offered in 32, 38, and 44W.C.F. calibers, with 44 being the standard caliber after 1898. This particular carbine was manufactured in 1898 and features a 20" round barrel with a blade front and folding ladder rear sight graduated to 900 yards. The top of the barrel is marked "-MANUFACTURED BY THE / -WINCHESTER REPEATING ARMS CO. NEW HAVEN, CONN. U.S.A.-" ahead of the rear sight and "32 W.C.F." at the breech. The lower tang directly behind the trigger is marked "PAT. OCT. 7TH 79" and the serial number is marked toward the rear. The left side of the receiver is fitted with a saddle ring and stud and it is mounted with a smooth walnut forearm and straight grip stock with a steel carbine buttplate. The accompanying factory letter verifies the carbine configuration, caliber, 20" barrel and that it was received in and shipped from the warehouse on January 27, 1898 on work order 34 with 5 other Model 1885s. These carbines were not popular with the shooting public and could not compete with the Winchester repeating rifles, thus making them rare. Research done by the consignor reveals that only 6 Model 1885 carbines were manufactured in 32 W.C.F. caliber in this configuration, all being shipped to New Zealand, making this carbine even rarer.
BBL: 20 inch round
Stock: walnut
Gauge: 32 WCF
Finish: blue
Grips:
Serial Number: 79498
Condition: Good. The metal surfaces have a smooth mottled brown patina. There is some minor pitting on the front edge of the receiver. The slightly undersize wood has been sanded and oiled, and remains good, with a couple of moderate pressure dents on the right side of the stock, a moderate chip on the rear edge of the forearm and overall some scattered minor dings and dents. The markings remain clear and crisp. The action is very good. A nice solid example of a rare Winchester Model 1885 Low Wall Carbine with a factory letter.