Make: Winchester

Model: 1885 High Wall

Serial Number: 25358

Year of Manufacture: 1888 / Antique

Caliber: .32-40 W.C.F.

Action Type: Lever Actuated Falling Block Single Shot

Barrel Length: 30” No. 2 Octagonal Barrel

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a blade dovetailed to the barrel. The rear sight is a v-notch semi-buckhorn elevator sight dovetailed to the barrel. The tang is drilled, tapped, and filled for a tang sight, none present.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are two-piece smooth walnut. The forend has a Schnabel tip with a triangular ebony inlay. The buttstock has a straight pistol grip, straight comb, and steel crescent buttplate. There are some scattered minor compressions, dings, nicks, and scratches. There are no notable cracks. There are a few very small chips on the comb. The stocks are dark where the wood meets metal. The LOP measures 13 1/8″ from the front of the set trigger to the back of the buttplate. The plate has taken to a mottled patina with some scattered corrosion. Overall, the stocks are in Very Good condition as Antique.

Type of Finish: Blued and Case Color

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is somewhat bright and the rifling is well defined. There is some minor erosion throughout the bore. In this writer's opinion the bore rates 8.5/10.

Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 85% of its metal finish. The frame has some case color present with mild muting, generally in the high handling areas. There is intermittent oxidation and rust freckling. There are some scattered nicks, dings, scuffs, and scratches. There are spots of pitting scattered about the barrel. The screwheads show light use with serviceable slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle is in about Excellent condition as Antique.

Mechanics: The action works correctly. We have not fired this rifle. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.

Our Assessment: This Winchester Model 1885 High Wall, manufactured in the late 19th century, reflects the precision focused side of John M. Browning’s falling block design, long favored by target shooters and discerning sportsmen. Chambered in .32-40 W.C.F. and fitted with a long 30 inch No. 2 octagonal barrel, this configuration speaks to the era’s emphasis on accuracy, balance, and deliberate shooting. The High Wall action was widely respected for its strength and rigidity, and rifles like this were commonly ordered for target work and refined sporting use rather than hard frontier service.

Condition shows honest age with remaining original finish, muted case color on the frame, and areas of oxidation and wear consistent with use. The bore shows defined rifling with minor erosion. The walnut stocks remain structurally sound with only minor cosmetic losses, and the Schnabel tipped forend with ebony inlay adds a refined visual touch. Overall, this is a representative High Wall that retains its period character and long range rifle presence, offering a clear example of Winchester’s late 19th century single shot craftsmanship.