Winchester M1894 .30-30 Saddle Ring Carbine — Made in 1897

A desirable and scarce Winchester Model 1894 .30-30 Saddle Ring Carbine (SRC). Made in 1897, serial 13461X. Has a standard carbine a 20-inch round nickel steel barrel, blade front sight in a ramp base that is either a special order or a retrofit. Has typical full-length magazine tube, and carbine buttplate. The bore is excellent – shiny with sharp rifling. The mechanics are excellent, with no “lever droop”, and it holds quarter-cock perfectly, if the trigger is pulled.  The original saddle ring is present and appears to retain its original shape, but it has been wrapped with a black leather bootlace — apparently to keep it from rattling when hunting. This wrapping has helped to protect the finish on the left side of the receiver. (There is just a faint “saddle ring shadow.”) The adjustable rear sight is buckhorn style and appears to be original.  Metal finish is exceptionally good for a saddle gun, with 80% original bluing on both the barrel and magazine tube. The receiver has a pleasant even graying patina, and the buttplate has an even brown patina.  The wood has just a few scratches and nicks, and looks original. This saddle ring carbine came from a ranch northeast of Missoula, Montana. Pre-1899 Model 1894s now command a 50% premium in price over ones that were made after 1898.  (EBNK-364)