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1886 .38-56 Sad Case. . .
22hipower
Member Posts: 619 ✭✭✭✭
Looked at an 1886 today with zero original finish; looked like the finish had been removed chemically as opposed to being buffed or steelwooled. The only blue left was on the bolt which showed substantial surface rust. My guess was the entire rifle had been covered with surface rust and therefore the finish removal. No obvious pitting though and the finish removal had probably been done some time ago. Tried to check the bore but there was so much krud in the barrel that I couldn't tell anything; might just be cobwebs and dust but could be pretty badly corroded. Stock was in reasonably good shape with finish although shiny so it might have been varnished. Sights looked ok and may be original but I don't know enough about the 1886s to be sure. So, finally to my question. Considering zero finish and possibly poor bore, what is the rough value? It is probably going to be for sale in the $1200-$1500 range. Normally I don't like refinished firearms, especially old Winchesters, but this one is so bad already perhaps a refinish would be the right thing to do. Would appreciate the thoughts of those of you who love the old Winchesters.
Comments
WACA Historian & Life Member
It is probably going to be for sale in the $1200-$1500 range. Normally I don't like refinished firearms, especially old Winchesters, but this one is so bad already perhaps a refinish would be the right thing to do. Would appreciate the thoughts of those of you who love the old Winchesters.
I'd venture to say that is too high for that condition, in this market.