Winchester 3rd Model 1876 28” Octagonal .45-60 Lever Rifle Antique 1883

The Winchester Model 1876 was a heavier-framed design similar to the Model 1873, and was the first to be chambered for full-powered centerfire rifle cartridges, as opposed to rimfire cartridges or handgun-sized centerfire Octagonals. While similar in design to the 1873, the 1876 was actually based on the prototype 1868 lever-action rifle that was never commercially produced by Winchester. It was introduced to celebrate the American Centennial, and earned a reputation as a durable and powerful hunting rifle that was also used by the Canadian North-West Mounted Police and the Texas Rangers. Theodore Roosevelt used one on his early hunting expeditions in the West and one was found in the possession of Apache warrior Geronimo after his surrender in 1883. Unfortunately, the 1876 lost popularity when the Model 1886 was introduced in heavier calibers.

This rifle's 28" barrel is chambered for the .45-60 Winchester cartridge, designed for the Model 1876 rifle and introduced in 1879 as a slightly lighter chambering for the model. This example is in Very Good condition as Antique, showing light wear for its age. About 25% of its current finish remains, the bore has some erosion and pitting, and the mechanics are still strong. The 1876 Winchester was only made for 21 years, with a total of about 63,871 made in rifle, carbine and musket formats, with the result that ALL are collectable. This would be a great rifle to add to a collection, placed between an 1873 and an 1886.