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LOT 3026
Scarce ATF Exempted Winchester Model 92 Lever Action Trapper Carbine with 15 Inch Barrel and ATF Letter - Serial no. 994171, 44 WCF cal., 15 inch round bbl., blue finish, walnut stock. Though nicknamed “trappers,” these short carbines make for handy firearms in a variety of circumstances. This short barreled carbine was manufactured in 1930 during the Great Depression and Prohibition Era. While urban gangsters of the era like Al Capone are famous for their use of Tommy Guns, Winchester’s lever actions were popular with law enforcement and bootleggers alike in more rural areas, and
short carbines like these would have been handier from operating from motor vehicles. Men like the members of Charlie Birger’s Gang in Illinois were photographed with their lever actions as well as the famous Tommy Guns as were lawmen during the hunt for Bonnie & Clyde and their associates. Short barreled firearms like this became restricted items under the National Firearms Act of 1934 because
of their association with gangsters. However, the included 1981 ATF letter indicates this rifle is exempt
from the NFA as a collector’s item and is classified as a curio or relic. The 15 inch barrel has a blade front sight pinned in a block behind the upper barrel band, a notch and folding ladder rear sight, the two-line address to the right of the rear sight, the model and caliber on the left, and the “WP” proof on top and repeated on the top of the frame ring. The frame also has a saddle ring on the left, the three- line trademark information on the tang, and the serial number on the bottom. It is mounted with a smooth carbine stock and forearm.
CONDITION: Very good with smooth gray and brown patina overall, some minor oxidation, and general mild overall wear. The stock is fine aside from a chip on the tip of the forend on
the left and has some light dings and scratches. Mechanically excellent. This scarce
short barreled Model 92 Trapper carbine in solid condition with some nice
age and character.
Estimate: 6,000 - 9,000
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