Winchester 1894 manufactured in 1903
OK, I know the information I am about to request will not be everything that one would like to have, including the lack of pictures. However, I am just trying to figure out a couple of things before I look at this rifle any farther.
The item is an 1894 Winchester in 25-35, with a serial number of 179367. According to Bert's records, this serial number would make the rifle manufactured in 1903. By looking at other 1894's on the auction side, I think (for whatever that is worth) everything is correct as far as parts are concerned. I dod not measure the length of the barrel but it is octagon with the last patent date of Aug. 21, 1894. Towards the rear and top of the barrel, it's stamped 25-35 WCF and on the left side, nearly underneath the rear sight is : nickel steel barrel, underneath that is especially for smokeless powder.
Questions:
1)Did Winchester offer a "nickel" finish in this model in 1903?
2)Assuming that all parts are correct and the wood is in 90% condition and the metal finish is in 90% condition, what kind of a value would be placed on this rifle?
I do realize there will probably be questions which I have not covered, for that I apologize.
Any opinions would be appreciated.
The item is an 1894 Winchester in 25-35, with a serial number of 179367. According to Bert's records, this serial number would make the rifle manufactured in 1903. By looking at other 1894's on the auction side, I think (for whatever that is worth) everything is correct as far as parts are concerned. I dod not measure the length of the barrel but it is octagon with the last patent date of Aug. 21, 1894. Towards the rear and top of the barrel, it's stamped 25-35 WCF and on the left side, nearly underneath the rear sight is : nickel steel barrel, underneath that is especially for smokeless powder.
Questions:
1)Did Winchester offer a "nickel" finish in this model in 1903?
2)Assuming that all parts are correct and the wood is in 90% condition and the metal finish is in 90% condition, what kind of a value would be placed on this rifle?
I do realize there will probably be questions which I have not covered, for that I apologize.
Any opinions would be appreciated.
0
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"Nickel steel" means that up to 6% of nickel is added to steel alloys for extra strength. This was done to accommodate the newer, more powerful smokeless powder loads as opposed to the old and weaker black powder loads. It does not mean that it was nickel plated, although that finish was available from Winchester.
For an estimate of value, we need good, clear pictures including markings and barrel length. A rifle that old in 90% condition may have experienced some refinishing over the past century.
This thread will show you how to post pics: http://forums.gunbroker.com/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=2592940 -
Thanks Spider for the information. I have posted many pictures on the forum, unfortunately pictures of this specific rifle will not be available, due to it being for sale at a local establishment.
The rifle does have a nickel finish and I do believe it to be original. I agree that it is possible that many things could have happened over the last hundred years (including refinish), but do not think that is the case with this one. After my initial post, I did a "smart search" and located some 1894's with nickel finish, so I now know that was an item offered by Winchester at the time.
That said, I am only looking for opinions on what the actual value of this specific rifle would be if it had original finish (both metal & wood) at 90%. I know the caliber may add value to the package and the nickel finish may add value. I'm just looking for a ball park value.
Thanks for the input,
Aaron0 -
Open question:
Did Winchester mark those guns that were nickel plated? Anything on the rifle to tell if [the plating] is legit by some identifying mark, or stamp? Thanks, Joe0 -
quote:Originally posted by givette
Open question:
Did Winchester mark those guns that were nickel plated? Anything on the rifle to tell if [the plating] is legit by some identifying mark, or stamp? Thanks, Joe
No, they did not. The only 100% positive way to determine if it is original is to have the gun lettered/researched by Cody.0 -
Hello Aaron,
Serial 179367 is May 7th, 1903.
Nickel plating was a special order option for the Model 1894, but a very rarely ever ordered option. Of the first 353,999 Model 1894s manufactured, only (117) of them were nickel plated.
Before you go any further with your research, you need to contact the Cody Firearms Musuem and have it researched/lettered. If it turns out to be one of the (117) nickel plated guns, and being in 90% condition, the $$$$$ value is going to be very significant[:0]!0 -
I am simply amazed of what a person can learn free from you guys...Knowledge is king/
Spider, you are one of the guys that doesn't the recognition you deserve,,,,and Bert,,you give a lot of your time to help others...kind of makes things pleasent here.[:)]0 -
Nambu,
I couldn't agree more. I usually try to respond with a thank you to the "group" of those who have provided the information I have requested.
Many times, I also send a personal e-mail to some as well.
Thanks all!
Aaron0 -
quote:Originally posted by mm8nambu
I am simply amazed of what a person can learn free from you guys...Knowledge is king/
Spider, you are one of the guys that doesn't the recognition you deserve,,,,and Bert,,you give a lot of your time to help others...kind of makes things pleasent here.[:)]
Thank you, Nambu. That was very nice of you to say. [:)]0
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