Winchester Model 1892 Short Rifle .38-40 WCF, 22-inch Octagon, 1894 Antique, Solid-Frame, Early Pre-WP Address
This is an early-production Winchester Model 1892 Short Rifle chambered in .38-40 Win (.38 W.C.F.), manufactured in 1894. It is a solid-frame (non-takedown) antique with a 22-inch octagon barrel and full-length tubular magazine. Markings include the Winchester New Haven barrel address, .38 W.C.F. caliber marking, and the upper tang legend "MOD. 1892 - WINCHESTER - PAT.
OCT. 14, 1884," with an early pre-WP proof-era barrel address. The walnut stock bears large carved initials or script, adding unique character. SELLING AS IS. Firearm would make a good restoration project.
Condition
Overall Condition: Poor condition.
Bore Overall Condition: Poor - Noticeable dirt, stains, significant corrosion or damage.
Bore Rifling: Poor Rifling - Rifling heavily worn or filled with fouling or debris.
Specific Condition Notes: The lever is binding, causing it to not fully operate and leaving the bolt closed. The binding is intermittent, and the lever will occasionally fully actuate. The metal shows extensive finish wear and discoloration. The wood furniture is worn down. The side loading gate assembly (spring cover and retaining screw) is missing, leaving the loading port open.
What’s Included
- Winchester Model 1892 Short Rifle chambered in .38-40 Win
Built in 1894, this Model 1892 represents an early, antique-period example with the desirable Short Rifle configuration. It features a solid-frame receiver, a 22-inch octagon barrel, and a full-length tubular magazine. Capacity is listed at 11+1 in .38-40 Win.
The rifle carries classic Winchester mechanical features of the era: top-eject design and dual vertical locking lugs. Note: the side loading gate assembly is missing.
Stock and furniture details include a straight-grip walnut stock with a crescent steel buttplate, a rifle-style forend, and a steel nose cap. Length of pull measures 13.0 inches. This example lacks a saddle ring, aligning with its Short Rifle configuration.
Barrel and tang markings are consistent with early production: Winchester New Haven barrel address, caliber marking ".38 W.C.F." on the barrel, and the upper tang legend "MOD. 1892 - WINCHESTER - PAT. OCT. 14, 1884." It is noted as an early production example with a pre-WP proof-era barrel address.
Additional character comes from the stock, which bears large carved initials or script. As an American-made Winchester from the 1890s, it offers period-correct features and markings that appeal to collectors. SELLING AS IS. Firearm would make a good restoration project.