Make: Winchester

Model: 1885 High Wall

Serial Number: 74750

Year of Manufacture: 1896

Caliber: .32-40 Winchester

Action Type: Lever-Action, Single Shot, Double Set-Trigger

Markings: The top flat of the barrel is marked “—MANUFACTURED BY THE— / —WINCHESTER REPEATING ARMS CO. NEW HAVEN. CONN. U.S.A.—”. The top of the barrel at the breech is marked “32-40”. The lower tang is marked with the serial number “74750”.

Barrel Length: 29”

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a Lyman globe dovetailed to the barrel. The rear sight is a semi-buckhorn leaf with ramp dovetailed to the barrel. There is an adjustable Lyman aperture sight mounted to the top tang.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are two-piece smooth walnut with a straight grip and crescent steel buttplate. The forend has a schnabel tip. The LOP measures 13 3/8” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. There are light dings, nicks, and compression marks throughout the wood, with some mild darkening around the upper and lower tangs. The stock rates in about Good to Very Good overall condition.

Magazine Quantity & Condition: N/A – Single Shot

Type of Finish: Blued barrel and case-colored receiver

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is semi-bright, the rifling is sharp. There is no visible erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 8/10.

Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 95% of its metal finish. The balance of the finish shows mild operational wear, with notable thinning and patina on the receiver and high points of the barrel. There are scattered small nicks, light scuffs, and general age-related wear. The screw heads are lightly tooled with serviceable slots. The pins are clean. The markings are sharp. Overall, this rifle rates in about Good to Very Good condition.

Mechanics: The action does not function correctly. Hammer will not catch sear. We did not fire this rifle. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None

Our Assessment: The Winchester Model 1885, designed by the legendary John Browning, represents one of the finest single-shot rifles of the 19th century. This particular High Wall variant in .32-40 Winchester was ideally suited for small game and target shooting, and it remains a favorite among black powder cartridge enthusiasts and collectors alike.

Its 29" octagonal barrel and original case-hardened receiver offer classic lines and balance, and the High Wall configuration is admired for its strength and smooth operation. The .32-40 cartridge, a favored round for accuracy in its time, makes this rifle a fine candidate for vintage shooting matches or black powder experimentation while the double set-trigger gives an edge for precision.

As an antique, this rifle can be appreciated not only for its historic significance and aesthetic charm, but also as a tangible representation of Winchester’s craftsmanship in the late 19th century. Whether displayed or used with care, it’s a fine addition to any collection.