Winchester Model 1890 Pump Action Rifle
This venerable Winchester Model 1890, designed by the legendary John Browning, stands as a significant piece in the evolution of firearms. Manufactured in 1916, this pump action rifle utilizes the .22 Winchester Rimfire (WRF) cartridge, offering a blend of historical significance and shooting enjoyment. This specific piece, despite showing signs of wear and usage in its wooden stock and metal finish, holds a fair condition rating, with a well-maintained bore and good rifling intact.
The overall condition speaks of its extensive use and survival through time—featuring patina on the wood and metal, non-original forend screws, and a cracked forend. However, these are not mere imperfections but rather marks of history, showcasing the rifle's journey through the years. The action is smooth, reflecting the quality craftsmanship of Winchester and the design genius of John Browning. It comes with a 24-inch octagonal barrel, blued finish, and a classic dovetail front sight paired with a rear buckhorn style sight.
The Model 1890, initially designed as a replacement for the less popular rimfire version of the Model 1873, became one of the first successful slide-action rifles and the most successful repeating rimfire rifle for general all-around shooting ever made by Winchester. Its introduction marked a pivotal moment in firearm history, being only narrowly preceded by the Colt Lightning Carbine. Its durability and accuracy made it a favorite in shooting galleries, earning it the nickname "gallery gun." Owning this rifle connects you to a period when innovation in firearm design was booming, and Winchester was leading the way.
Today, possessing a Winchester Model 1890 from 1916 is not only an investment in a functional firearm but also in a piece of American heritage. It offers the enthusiast a chance to experience the same reliable performance that made this rifle a staple in early 20th-century shooting galleries. Whether for target practice, small game hunting, or adding to a collection, this rifle stands out with its historical and functional value.