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LOT 1012
Exceptional Early Production Winchester Model 1866 Lever Action
Saddle Ring Carbine with Desirable Henry Patent Marked Barrel - Serial
no. 16446, 44 Henry RF cal., 20 inch round bbl., blue finish, walnut stock.
This is a standout example of a saddle ring carbine variation of the famed
Winchester Model 1866 that was manufactured in 1868. Making it even more
notable is that fact that it is an early production example, with the desirable
Henry patent barrel marking. These Model 1866 carbines were highly valued in
the American West, both for their durability and their mobile firepower. Their
rate of fire was nearly unmatched when compared to other long guns of the
period. The 1866 is often cited as one of the “guns that won the west” and was
carried throughout the Western Frontier by settlers, Native Americans, outlaws,
lawmen, cowboys, and ranchers. Many of the Model 1866s were later converted
to centerfire to utilize more advanced cartridges; however, this example
remains in its original rimfire configuration. As a “frontier issued” arm a majority
saw hard use. High condition examples, especially early production examples,
are extremely difficult to encounter today. This Model 1866 carbine is well
deserving of the finest collection. As a Second Model, the carbine has a more
gradual drop at the rear of the receiver when compared to the First Model
and a single upper tang screw. Second Models are found in the 15000-25000
serial number range. The matching serial number appears on the left side of
the lower tang, stock inlet, and buttplate. The barrel has the sought after early
production two-line Henry and King’s patent barrel address (“HENRY’S PATENT-
OCT. 16. 1860/ KING’S PATENT-MARCH 29. 1866”). This marking is correctly
stamped between the rear barrel band and rear sight. It is fitted with a blade
front sight integral to the front barrel band and a two leaf rear sight. The saddle
ring is mounted on the left side of the brass receiver. The forearm and straight
grip stock are plain walnut with attractive grain pattern. The buttstock is fitted
with a trapdoor brass crescent buttplate (cleaning rod not included).
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