Winchester Model .22 WRF 1890 Pump Action Rifle 24” MFG 1915

Make: Winchester

Model: 1890

Serial Number: 552544

Year of Manufacture: 1915 (C&R)

Caliber: .22 Winchester Rimfire (WRF)

Action Type: Pump-Action, Tubular Magazine-Fed

Markings: The top of the barrel is marked “MANUFACTURED BY THE WINCHESTER REPEATING ARMS CO. / NEW HAVEN, CONN. U.S.A. PAT. JUNE 26, 88. DEC. 6, 92.” The left side of the barrel near the receiver is marked “22 WRF.” The lower tang is marked with the serial number “552544.” The bottom of the receiver, near the front, is also marked “552544 A.”

Barrel Length: The barrel has been cut to 23 1/2”

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a beaded blade dovetailed to the barrel. The rear sight is a standard v-notch leaf dovetailed to the barrel.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The rifle has a two-piece walnut stock with a grooved slide handle and a straight grip, straight comb,and metal crescent buttplate. The wood has been refinish. There are areas of darkening, scratches, and small dents, particularly on the buttstock. The LOP measures approximately 12 3/4” from the front of the trigger to the back of the steel crescent buttplate. The stock rates in about good overall condition.

Magazine Quantity & Condition: The rifle has a fixed tubular magazine beneath the barrel, showing wear and patina along its length. Overall the magazine is in good condition.

Type of Finish: Blued

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is gray, the rifling is defined. There is no visible erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 6/10.

Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 10% of its original metal finish. The balance of the finish has worn to a patina with handling and operational wear present throughout. There are scattered nicks, scratches, and areas of finish loss, primarily on the receiver and barrel. The markings remain clear. The screw heads show tool wear but remain serviceable. Overall, this rifle rates in about good condition.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. 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 1890 is one of the most recognizable and successful pump-action rifles ever produced. Originally designed by John Browning, it became a staple in shooting galleries, small-game hunting, and target shooting for decades. This second-model iteration, chambered in .22 WRF, was a premium option over the more common .22 Short, Long, or Long Rifle chamberings.

Manufactured in 1915, this rifle is a Curio & Relic eligible piece that retains its historical significance. While it shows wear consistent with its age and the barrel has been cut back 1/2”, the mechanics remain sound, and the bore is in excellent condition. This example would make a great restoration project, shooter, or collectible addition to a Winchester collection.

For fans of classic American firearms, this Winchester Model 1890 embodies quality craftsmanship, historical relevance, and a design that has withstood the test of time. Whether for display or use, it remains a fine representation of Winchester’s legacy in firearm manufacturing.