Winchester Model 1894 Sporting Rifle, .32-40, 26-Inch Barrel, Pre-64 Lever Action (mfd 1908)
This Winchester Model 1894 Sporting Rifle is an early, pre-64 example manufactured in 1908 within the first half-million guns produced. Chambered in the less common .32-40 Winchester cartridge and wearing its original 26-inch round barrel, it combines John M. Browning’s classic design with forged carbon-steel construction and walnut furniture. A factory buckhorn rear sight is complemented by an adjustable Lyman tang aperture, offering two sighting options on a collectible, turn-of-the-century lever action.
Condition
Overall Condition: Fair condition, showing extensive signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Condition: Fair - Generally clean, some residue or smudges, slight corrosion.
Bore Rifling: Good Rifling - Intact, well-defined lands and grooves.
There are noticeable scratches, handling marks, and scattered patches of surface rust on the metal surfaces and walnut furniture.
What’s Included
- Winchester Model 1894 Sporting Rifle chambered in .32-40 Winchester
- Factory buckhorn rear sight and pinned blade front sight
- Lyman tang aperture sight (installed)
Serial number 4989xx places this rifle’s production in 1908, giving it added appeal to collectors seeking early Model 1894 examples. Its forged steel receiver, barrel, and full-length 9-round magazine tube reflect Winchester’s robust pre-64 manufacturing quality.
The 26-inch round barrel maximizes the .32-40 cartridge’s ballistic potential while maintaining a well-balanced profile. A six-groove, right-hand twist rifling pattern delivers reliable accuracy, and the bore retains defined lands and grooves despite its age.
A case-colored hammer and lever provide authentic period detail, contrasting with the blue finish on the barrel and receiver. The straight-grip walnut stock and slim, uncheckered fore-end are finished in oil and end with a steel crescent buttplate—hallmarks of Winchester sporting rifles from this era.
Combining a desirable chambering, factory tang sight, and early serial range, this Model 1894 offers a solid foundation for restoration, display, or continued range use by enthusiasts of classic lever guns.