Make: Winchester

Model: 1885 High Wall

Serial#: 67165

Year of Manufacture: 1893–1894 (Antique)

Caliber: .40-65 Winchester

Action Type: Single-Shot, Falling Block Rifle (with Single Set Trigger)

Markings: The barrel is marked "MANUFACTURED BY THE WINCHESTER REPEATING ARMS CO. NEW HAVEN. CONN. U.S.A." and “40-65 W.C.F.” clearly visible. The serial number "67165" is marked distinctly on the lower tang. Standard Winchester proofs are visible.

Barrel Length: 30” Octagon-to-Round, #3 Barrel Weight

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a "Rocky Mountain" german-silver blade in a slotted base dovetailed to the front of the barrel. The rear sight is a "V"-notch semi-buckhorn elevator sight dovetailed to the rear of the barrel; the notch is fine-adjustable for elevation. The top tang is drilled, tapped and filled for a tang sight (none present).

Stock Configuration & Condition: The rifle features a walnut straight-grip stock and matching forend with a traditional crescent buttplate. The wood exhibits minor handling marks, scattered small scuffs, and expected wear consistent with age and use. Small crack in the forearm near the screw escutcheon, the are no other cracks or significant damage noted. Overall, the stocks remain in Very Good to Fine antique condition.

Type of Finish: Blued Receiver, Barrel, and Components

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is bright, the rifling is sharp. There is minor scattered erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 8/10.

Overall Condition: The rifle retains approximately 80% original blue finish overall, with the barrel showing strong, deep bluing and some thinning along edges, muzzle, and at the transition from octagon to round. The receiver exhibits modest finish loss on high-contact areas with normal handling marks. Screwheads are sharp, showing minimal tool marks. All markings remain crisp and clear. Overall, this rifle is in Very Good to Fine antique condition.

Mechanics: The action functions smoothly and locks securely. The single set trigger engages crisply and functions properly. As with all antique firearms, thorough cleaning and inspection are advised prior to firing.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.

Our Assessment:

The Winchester Model 1885, originally designed by John Moses Browning, represents the pinnacle of single-shot rifle design and craftsmanship of the late 19th century. This example, chambered in .40-65 Winchester—a classic American cartridge prized by both hunters and long-range target shooters of the period—is particularly attractive with its desirable features, including a special-order 30” octagon-to-round barrel in the heavier #3 barrel weight configuration, crescent buttplate, and factory single set trigger.

Manufactured between 1893 and 1894, this antique Winchester High Wall retains an impressive original finish, clear markings, and excellent mechanical function. The single set trigger enhances accuracy and adds to the desirability of the rifle, especially for collectors who appreciate authentic 19th-century firearms capable of precise shooting. The octagon-to-round barrel provides a unique balance, improving both aesthetics and handling characteristics.

This rifle would make an exceptional addition to any collection of classic Winchester firearms or for an enthusiast looking to experience shooting with historical authenticity. Its combination of original condition, antique status, desirable caliber, and rare features ensures its continued appeal to serious collectors and Winchester aficionados alike.