`
BILL
GOODMAN, P. O. BOX 2002, BOZEMAN, MONTANA 59771
TEL. (406) 587-3131 FAX (406)
219-3415
EMAIL: montanaraven@hotmail.com
Bill Goodman has been a collector of
antique/collector firearms for well over 40 years and a full time dealer for
over 30 years. Traveling around the country constantly seeking good
quality collector arms at REALISTIC PRICES, Bill sells exclusively by mail order.
Until recently, he has advertised in
every issue of The Gun List (now Gun Digest the Magazine) since it's first small issues in the early 1980s (as
well as The Shotgun News before that).
All items are photographed. To view them
just click
the
text of the item you want to see. Be sure to scroll down as most items have more than one photo.
All guns are sold as collector's items, not shooters. If you wish to
shoot an item listed here, it is strongly recommended that you have the item
checked out by a competent gunsmith who specializes in antique/classic firearms. All
items are sold with the usual three (3) day inspection. If for any reason
you are not satisfied with your purchase, call to say you are returning the item
and you will receive an immediate refund when the item is received back in the
same condition it was originally shipped.
This list will be constantly updated
as new items become available. Use the above phone number or email to call to check
availability and for info on any item you wish to purchase. Prices do
not include shipping. All federal/state laws concerning the transfer of firearms are
strictly followed. Modern firearms must be shipped to an FFL dealer (or
"Curio & Relics" license holders where applicable). Pre-1899 antiques may
be shipped to non-FFL holders.
All Layaway sales are final. AND
PLEASE, MAKE CHECKS TO WILLIAM (OR BILL) GOODMAN AND
NOT GOODMANGUNS.
MORE GUNS WERE POSTED ON 2/22/21. WATCH FOR
FREQUENT POSTINGS THROUGH FEBRUARY.
NOTES FROM THE
FIELD:
FINALLY, MY SECOND
NOVEL IS OUT! First, I'd like to thank everyone who read my
first novel, DESERT SUNDAYS, and kept after me to get the second one done
and published! So, after the usual delays and hitches, here it is. This one is
called AN OBVIOUS SLAM DUNK and if you like courtroom scenes and a story
that not only makes you think, but surprises you...well, this is a page turner I
know you'll like. And before anyone asks, yes, the third novel is almost done
and I hope to get that one out before too long. All three form a trilogy, but
each stands alone, so it doesn't matter which you read first. Both are available
on Amazon or Barnes and Noble (Kindle downloads too). If you want to save some money and have a signed
copy, I have books here that I can sell cheaper than online at $13 each
including shipping.
Click here to see both books front and back with a synopsis of each.
Don't bother to call to reserve a copy, just toss a check in the mail with
shipping instructions. Thanks, Bill Goodman
COLT FIRE ARMS (click text for
photo)
1) SUPERB MODEL 1862,
3 ½ INCH ROUND BARREL "CONVERSION” REVOLVER IN DESIRABLE .38 CENTER FIRE
CALIBER, #316XXX, C. LATE 1870s. These conversion revolvers made from frames
and parts of left over percussion guns are some of Colt’s earliest cartridge
arms. They are not only quite scarce because of very limited production, but
extremely interesting with many variations. Because of the high serial number on
this one, it was probably produced in the . last part of the 1870s. It has a full
bright nickel plated finish of which most remains. There is only a small amount
of limited peeling on the top of the barrel by the muzzle and a small spot an
inch or so back along with some extremely minor edge wear. All serial numbers
match and the cylinder shows a crisp and clear engraving scene. The frame,
hammer, butt, grip straps, trigger guard etc. retain bright nickel with only a
few very minor spots of peel. All excellent markings and screws. Tight action.
One-piece walnut grips are excellent and still show quite a bit of the original
finish. About ¾ of this model were made in .38 Rim Fire with only about a
quarter of production made in Center Fire configuration. These were made on the
1849 frame and have the original “.31 CAL” stamping on the rear of the trigger
guard over-stamped with an “8” to show “ .38 CAL.” There is extensive
information on this model (as well as others) in the detailed book by R. Bruce
McDowell A Study of Colt Conversions and Other Percussion Revolvers.
About 10,000 of these were made, of which approx. 6500 were made from 1849
revolvers. Made without ejectors, these conversion Colts are among the most
handsome firearms turned out. This is one of the finest examples I’ve seen. (4
photos) $2150.
2) RARE BISLEY FLATTOP
TARGET REVOLVER, .32-20 CALIBER, WITH FACTORY LETTER, #263XXX, MADE 1905.
Colt only made 976 Flattop Bisleys from 1894-1913. Of these, 131 were made
in the popular .32-20 caliber. This example is verified to caliber and Flattop
configuration by the factory letter which shows shipment on April 29, 1905 to J.
F. Schmelzer & Sons Arms Company, Kansas City, Missouri. It would seem apparent
that this revolver was ordered and used as a "working" gun as opposed to a
purely target revolver. Overall the metal is an aged blue to brown with good
aged/dulled blue on the cylinder and in the more protected areas. The balance is
mainly a plum/brown patina with some gray on the barrel probably from holster
carry. The action is tight with four clicks to the hammer and the screws and
markings are all fine. Grips are fine with the left grip a probable replacement
as it is slightly undersize along the back strap. Matching numbers. The bore is
only fair to good as it is a bit dark with good rifling but has a couple of
rings toward the middle of the bore that do not show on the outside of the
barrel. Nice overall appearance. $4500.
3) COLORFUL, FRONTIER USED BISLEY WITH HOLSTER, .32-20, 4 3/4" BARREL,
#310XXX, MADE 1909. This is a really great set that shows miles and miles of
real cowboy usage! The grips on this Bisley fit nicely and are worn almost
completely smooth on both sides. There are a couple of tiny chips on the
corners, but they are basically sound. The metal is an uncleaned gray/brown
patina showing no evidence of ever having been cleaned or scrubbed. All markings
are good including the correct two line barrel address used on 4 3/4" barrels (5
1/2" and 7 1/2" had a one line address), screws are generally fine to excellent
as is the cylinder pin. The front sight has not been filed or altered. matching
serial numbers. There is some aged blue in the cylinder flutes and along the
upper and lower flutes of the ejector housing. Tight action with four clicks to
the hammer. The bore is about excellent with any roughness being very slight and
surface. The double loop Mexican holster fits perfectly and looks like this
Bisley was at home in it for many decades. The holster is in remarkably fine
condition, but shows much wear- as does the revolver itself. A Colt factory
letter might prove interesting on this one. $2150.
4) VERY FINE CONDITION
SINGLE ACTION ARMY, .38-40, 5 1/2" BARREL, #308XXX, MADE 1909. Most of the
Single Actions from this time period saw pretty hard use on ranches across the
mid-west and western United States. This is especially true for the three most
common larger calibers offered by Colt at the time- .38-40, .44-40 and .45 Colt.
This example shows most of the blue on the barrel and cylinder with only light
edge wear. The outside edge of the ejector housing shows good thinning blue with
fine blue on the top and bottom flutes. The trigger guard, grip straps and butt
also show fine deep blue with only light edge wear and minor thinning on the
front strap and back strap. All markings are excellent as are the screw heads
which also show fine blue. Good case colored frame with vivid color ahead of the
cylinder, dark colors on the bottom part of the frame on both sides. Grips are
excellent and fit perfectly. Good light case colors on the sides and back of the
hammer, Tight action with four clicks to the hammer. About excellent bore and
unaltered front sight. A really sharp, large caliber, 111 year old Colt Single
Action Army! (4 photos) $4800.
5) BISLEY IN SCARCE AND
DESIRABLE .45 COLT CALIBER WITH 7 1/2" BARREL, #238XXX , MADE 1903, WITH FACTORY
LETTER. Really difficult finding these long barreled .45s as most Bisley
Models were shipped with 4 3/4" or 5 1/2" barrels with most of the production in
.32-20 and .38-40 calibers. The Colt letter verifies the caliber and barrel
length and shows it was sold January 12, 1903 to James Mayshan (address
unavailable) Chicago and shipped to Sears roebuck & Company, Chicago, Illinois
as a shipment of 1. No doubt, this James Mayshan placed his special order
through Sears Roebuck. Chicago was a big meat packing center at the time with
many thousands of cattle shipped there by rail each year. This example has
matching serial numbers, excellent screw heads and markings including the
"(BISLEY MODEL) 45 COLT" on the left side of the barrel. The front sight has not
been altered and the mechanics are excellent with four clicks to the hammer, all
markings and patent dates are clear, overall the gun is a mixture of mainly
gray/brown with blue in the more protected areas- upper trigger guard sides,
cylinder flutes, barrel tip and around ejector housing, in the ejector housing
flutes, etc. Grips fit perfectly and show only normal wear, bore will brush out
to excellent- shows a little leading that ought to clean out. In all, a handsome
and early big caliber/long barrel Bisley with factory letter. (4 photos) $2650.
6) PRE-WAR, GREAT DEPRESSION
ERA OFFICERS MODEL .22 LONG RIFLE REVOLVER, #18XXX, MADE 1938. As I've
stated many times before, these 1930s vintage firearms are some of the
finest made by all the major manufacturers of the time. Since the terrible
economic state of the U.S. brought firearms manufacturing to a fraction of what
it was a decade before, only the best gunsmiths and craftsmen remained on the
job. They had the time (and expertise) to turn out truly amazing firearms. The
fit and finish and timing/tuning of these guns has to be seen and felt to be
fully appreciated. The Officers Model revolvers made by Colt during this time
had some of the finest hand-tuned actions the company ever turned out. This
adjustable sighted target revolver displays excellent blue overall with nice
fire blue on the trigger and hammer back. All markings are sharp and clear, the
grips show only the lightest handling and even the front of the cylinder retains
nearly all the blue indicating that this revolver was shot very little. Bright
excellent bore and tight action with amazingly crisp and light trigger pull.
About as fine a double action .22 revolver as ever made. $1100.
7) SUPERB CONDITION AND RARE
WORLD WAR II PRODUCTION (!) WOODSMAN .22 AUTO PISTOL, 6 7/8" BARREL, #185XXX,
MADE 1942. All civilian firearms made during the 2nd World War are seldom
seen as all the major arms companies were making guns under government contract
for the war effort. Perhaps there is a story in this one because Colt was
concentrating of making 1911 .45s etc. and may have made this Woodsman as a
special order...a factory letter might prove interesting. The condition of this
one is outstanding. It shows about all the deep factory blue with sharp markings
etc. The checkered walnut grips show almost no handling and the adjustable sight
screws, front and rear, have not been turned. The magazine is stamped "COLT
WOODSMAN" over "CAL 22 LR." and is in excellent condition. Wartime production
.22 autos are extremely rare and this one would be hard to improve upon. $1495.
8) THE 41ST
OFFICERS MODEL SPECIAL REVOLVER MADE! The Officers Model Special was only
made from 1949-1952 and only a total of 6210 were made in .22 LR and .38 Special
combined. Serial numbers began at 783001 and continued to 789211. This example
in .38 Special is serial number 783041 and was probably turned out in the first
day or two of production for this model! One of the more scarce of the
Post-World War II Colts, the Officers Model Special had a heavy 6” barrel and a
distinctive long ramped front sight. Rear sight was adjustable. At the time
Bullseye Shooting was the most popular form of pistol match shooting and the
Officers Model Special was the finest .38 Special target revolver in the Colt
line. The single and double action pull has to be felt to be believed. These
were all hand-honed and fitted by skilled craftsmen and will never be
duplicated. The Officers Model Special gave way to the Officers Model Match
which had quite a long run from 1953-1970. The Officers Model Special was fitted
with “Coltwood” plastic grips that just about everyone hated! Why Colt though
American shooters would accept plastic on such a fine revolver is baffling. Most
revolvers so fitted have had their grips changed and this example is no
exception. It now wears Pachmayr rubber grips, but the original style Coltwood
grips would be easy to replace. The blue finish shows some honest wear, but
overall there is no abuse or rust. There is the usual blue wear and dulling on
the barrel sides and edges of the cylinder etc., but overall this scarce Colt
has a fine look to it. All markings are sharp and clear including the “COLT
OFFICERS MODEL SPECIAL” marking on the left side of the barrel. Perfect bore,
tight action, amazing mechanics! These are not often encountered and this has
to be one of the lowest serial numbers extant. $1195.
(CLICK ON THIS BLUE LINE FOR PHOTOS)
9) GREAT OFFERING! WOOLY MAMMOTH
FOSSILIZED IVORY GRIPS FOR COLT (AND CLONES) 1911 AUTO PISTOLS! The Wooly
Mammoth pretty much became extinct about 10,000 years ago at the end of the
Pleistocene. A large number of the remains of these animals ended up in the
permafrost of Siberia and Alaska. Their bones and tusks have been
harvested for many years. the tusks typically take on minerals from the soil in
which they were entombed for thousands of years. this gives the ivory a rich and
very varied coloration. The ivory from the "bark" or outside of the tusk tends
to be darker and heavily pigmented, while the more inner portions can be as
light as creamy-white. Mammoth ivory can be separated from now-illegal elephant
ivory by the grain structures. Elephant ivory has an even-lined structure while
Mammoth has a "cross hatch" grain pattern (easily seen on the cross section cut
of the ivory)- this is important when dealing with legalities! This beautiful
grip set is probably from the mid-section of a tusk as it has both the rich
creamy color of aged ivory mixed with darker brown. With elephant ivory no
longer in the market place, Mammoth ivory is at a premium. It is very hard to
find now and prices have really escalated. This grip set has been "stabilized"
chemically so that it should not easily crack, chip or shrink. I've had a pair
of these on a 1911 .45ACP for a number of years and they truly look rich and
distinctive! $695.
MARLIN (click text for photos).
1) HIGH CONDITION 1893 .30-30
ROUND BARREL RIFLE, #D7XX, MADE ABOUT 1905/1906. In 1905 Marlin
changed the designation from Model 1893 to Model '93. This one is still marked
with the earlier "Model 1893" on the upper tang, yet has the later serialization
indicating this was a transition rifle which helps date it. The receiver sides
and top show lightly aged but still fairly vivid case colors with even the upper
tang showing good color. The screws are excellent and show good blue. The barrel
and full magazine retain most of the original blue with excellent markings and
original Rocky Mountain blade front sight with buckhorn rear sight. Bore is
excellent and sharp, action is tight and springs are strong. Fine blue on the
loading gate. Excellent butt stock with correct early style full crescent butt
plate, forend shows light handling mainly on the bottom which is minor and there
is some flaking of stock finish mainly on the forend. Overall, a sharp
example with nice case colors and blue. (5 photos) $1950.
2) MODEL 93 CS "SPORTING CARBINE"
IN .30-30 CALIBER WITH STANDARD 20" BARREL, 2/3 MAGAZINE, SHOTGUN BUTT WITH
RARE MARLIN FIREARMS CORPORATION BARREL STAMPING. The sporting carbine
was introduced in 1923 with the above features. in .30-30 and .32 Special
chamberings only. From 1922-1924 the Marlins were stamped "MARLIN FIREARMS
CORPORATION." From 1926-1935 barrels were stamped "Marlin Firearms Company." The
1923 catalog described the new carbines this way: "Model No 93CS "Sporting"
Carbine, .30-30 or .32 Special caliber, center fire, solid frame, 20-inch
round Special Smokeless Steel barrel, two-thirds magazine, 5 shots, weight
about 6 1/2 pounds." The catalog description goes on to call it "A special light
weight, accurate, quick handling, finely made gun, handling cartridges
sufficiently powerful to bring down all North American big game." (etc. etc.)
These handy Marlins are quite scarce and don't show up very often. This is one
of the better ones I've seen. It shows good lightly faded case colors on the
right side of the receiver with stronger color on the bolt and front/rear
portions of the panel, the receiver top and left side show more vivid colors.
There is also some good case color remaining on the lever sides and upper tang.
The upper tang is also marked with a "star" stamping which according to
literature published 1936-1927 states that when a Marlin leaves the factory
bearing the Marlin star stamped into the metal, it is "as near perfection as the
finest materials, equipment, and skill can make it." This example with #9XXX
shows excellent deep blue on the barrel and magazine, is equipped with a carbine
ladder sight and a blade/bead front sight. The wood is excellent with tight wood
to metal fit and has the correct Marlin embossed hard rubber butt plate. the
screw heads are excellent and retain fine blue as does the loading gate. Tight
action and perfect bore. One of the better ones I've seen. (5
photos) $1795.
A NOTE ABOUT "MODERN
MARLINS": Marlin has closed its doors for good in North
Haven, Connecticut and been bought out by the folks who own Remington. It looks
like some models have been put back into production with the barrels marked
"Utica, New York." I did see one of the new ones with the old North Haven
barrel address so I assume they had left over barrels they were using up.
Quality in wood to metal fit was fair at best and trigger pulls were off
the scale heavy! I don't know if any of the octagon barrel "cowboy models" will be
produced again, although their online catalogue does show a model 1894
cowboy-type with octagon barrel in .45 Colt.
UPDATE: My
understanding is that Remington is now in a bankruptcy situation and has sold
the Marlin line to Ruger. It is suggested that Ruger will produce the Marlins
sometime in the future when all the tooling and machinery is moved to their
facilities. In my opinion, all of this confusion and quality control problems
will make the CT manufactured Marlins even more desirable as shooters and
collectibles. I know I'll be looking for them.
(MORE SOON)
ANTIQUE & CLASSIC RIFLES, SHOTGUNS AND PISTOLS (click
text for photos)
1) SUPERB EXAMPLE OF RARE
HARRINGTON AND RICHARDSON MODEL 922 "HUNTER MODEL" 10 INCH ROUND BARREL,
DOUBLE ACTION 9-SHOT REVOLVER. This is actually known as the "4th
Variation" of this model that was made in all variations from 1927-1952.
The 4th variation only 1938-1939. Most of these had the standard 6" barrels
with the 10 inch "Hunter" model only available from 1938-1941 (End of the
Great Depression Era when production of all firearms was low). This example
retains about all of the original deep blue with only a touch of wear at the
extreme muzzle. They were fitted with gold plated front sights and this one
retains nearly all the gold plating. The oversize one piece checkered walnut
grips are excellent, the hammer and trigger retain vivid case color, the
action works perfectly in both single action and double action mode, the bore
is also perfect and even the front of the cylinder retains about all the blue
indicating that this revolver was rarely if ever shot! A true rarity in the
Pre-War H&R line and this one is a beauty. $695.
MODERN AND OUT OF PRODUCTION
FIREARMS (click text for photos)
1) WOOLY MAMMOTH IVORY GRIPS FOR M-1911 AUTO PISTOLS (see above in Colt
section)
2) SMITH & WESSON MODEL 360PD, .357 MAG. (see below in S&W section)
3) VARNER "FAVORITE" .22 LR SINGLE SHOT RIFLE (see below in Shiloh
Sharps and Reproduction section)
REMINGTON (click text for
photos)
1) THE RAREST REMINGTON
I'VE EVER OFFERED! THIS IS A REMINGTON KEENE .45-70 COMMERCIAL U.S. NAVY
PATTERN MUSKET! Most collectors have never seen one of the only 250 bolt
action Keene Navy Muskets issued in 1880 that all have 29 1/2" barrels and full
military stock with cleaning rod mounted on the side. According to the fine
books: Rifles of the United States Navy and Marine Corps 1866-1917 by John D.
McAulay and U.S. Military Bolt Action Rifles by Bruce Canfield, there is
considerable information about the 250 U.S. Navy marked and issued rifles, but
only a mention that a Civilian version was catalogued. McAulay says, "It is
worth noting that Remington also offered the Navy rifle on the commercial market
although it is not known how many, if any at all, were sold." In Canfield's book
he shows a copy of a page from an early Remington catalogue showing the full
line of Keene sporting rifles and Military muskets. Interestingly, the Keene
Navy musket in the catalogue is offered in .43 (.43 Spanish) and .45-70. This
one is stamped on the left side of the receiver with the .45-70 caliber
designation as are all the commercial sporting models I've encountered over the
years, but I don't believe the U.S. Navy marked and inspected muskets are
caliber marked, which is typical of most military arms of the period like the
Trapdoors, Spencers and Sharps etc. Also discussed in the books is that the few
of these U.S. navy issued guns that are known to exist are typically is very
rough condition, often with parts missing. This is the first commercial example
I've heard of. It is in particularly fine condition overall with excellent wood
and side-mounted cleaning rod intact. The barrel shows good blue in the
more protected areas in front of the receiver, around the rear sight and toward
the muzzle with the balance an aged gray/brown. The trigger guard retains about
half of the deep blue. It has the military style rear sight and has the correct
Remington markings on the top of the bolt along with the correct sling swivels.
The bore is excellent. The most advanced Remington collections- museum or
private- don't have one of these! I don't ever expect to encounter another!
$5200.
RUGER (click text for photos)
1) HARD TO FIND SPECIAL
"BUCKEYE" BLACKHAWK CONVERTIBLE .32 H&R MAGNUM AND .32-20 CALIBER, 6 1/2"
BARREL, ADJUSTABLE SIGHT REVOLVER, #610-05XXX, MADE 1988. These were made as
a special run for Buckeye Sports in Ohio who was the sole distributor for this
unusual model. Interestingly, they were made with FULL STEEL frames and grip
straps, unlike the standard Blackhawks which at the time all had alloy grip
straps etc. Further the top strap ahead of the rear sight is stamped with a
buckeye flower. Grips are walnut with the Ruger medallions. this one appears
unfired with both cylinders and the original box with correct end label. These
are hard to find now and shoot exceptionally well. They are also about as strong
a revolver ever made for these two excellent calibers. Hard to find in any
condition, much less unfired with the original box and paperwork! $1395.
SHILOH SHARPS, MUZZLOADERS AND OTHER REPRODUCTIONS. Note: I am a Shiloh Sharps
dealer and can order you any Shiloh you want. Check out my other website for
Shilohs: www.shiloh-ballard.com
(click text for photos).
1) SHILOH SHARPS LONG
RANGE EXPRESS RIFLE, .50-90 CALIBER (.50 2 1/2" CASE) WITH 34" OCT.
BARREL. This is an earlier Farmingdale manufactured rifle probably made
about 1980. It sports a pistol grip butt stock with cheek piece and shot gun
butt, adjustable double set triggers and no rear sight dovetail on the barrel.
It has very deep color extra fancy walnut in the stock and forearm and the cheek
piece is fitted with an accent or "shadow" line. It is fitted with a mid-range
vernier tang sight that is adjustable for elevation and windage. The front sight
is a globe with pin head. This rifle has seen minimal use and handling and
retains about all the barrel blue and case colors. The barrel top flat is
stamped "SHILOH RIFLE MFG. CO." along with the "OLD RELIABLE" in a rectangle
stamping. Bore is bright, sharp and excellent. This one weighs right at about 10
1/2 pounds. $2895.
2) JONATHAN BROWNING
MOUNTAIN RIFLE WITH DESIRABLE STEEL TRIGGER GUARD AND MOUNTINGS, .50 CAL.
PERCUSSION HAWKEN STYLE RIFLE. These great American made half stock rifles
were discontinued in the early 1980s. They were offered in .45, .50 and .54
caliber with either brass or iron mountings (I've been shooting a brass .54
caliber one since 1984). They feature 30" stout octagon barrels, single set
triggers that are adjustable and cheek pieces on walnut stocks with heavy
crescent butt plates. They also have a distinctive "full curl" bighorn sheep
horn motif on the percussion bolster. One of the very best of the muzzle loader
rifles so popular in the 1970s - 1980s when most were imported from Italy and
elsewhere. This example has seen some normal use and has light wear which makes
it look almost antiqued. These have become difficult to find now.
$1150.
3) VERY HIGH QUALITY, SELDOM SEEN
VARNER SPORTING ARMS "FAVORITE" COPY OF THE ICONIC STEVENS FAVORITE SINGLE SHOT
.22 RIFLES OF THE 1900 PERIOD. These excellent rifles were made in
Marietta,, Georgia from about 1988-1989. They offered "Favorite" falling block
rifles from plain, basic models to super fancy versions. The 24" barrels were
half octagon (heavier than the original Stevens rifles) and chambered in .22
Long Rifle with .22 mag. available. This example is a higher grade than the
standard "Hunter" model which featured plain walnut and a blued receiver. This
deluxe version has nicely figured walnut (photo didn't pick up the streaking in
the wood, but it is apparent in slanting light), is checkered at the forend and
wrist, has a case colored frame and a target crown at the muzzle. It retains all
the barrel blue and vivid case color on the receiver and lever. Even the
takedown "ring" ahead of the lever has all the blue. Checkering is sharp and
overall this one appears to have seen little to no use. The action is still very
tight/stiff and the bore is perfect. the front sight is a small blade/bead and
the rear is a barrel mounted peep. This scarce little .22 is a class act inside
and out. $950.
SMITH AND WESSON (click text
for photos)
1) AN EXTREMELY
DIFFICULT TO FIND S&W REVOLVER IS THIS MODEL OF 1891 (.38 SINGLE ACTION 3RD
MODEL), #5XXX, MADE 1891-1911. One of the most attractive revolvers in
the S&W line at the time, these Model 1891s look like a scaled down New Model
No. 3. They seem to almost never show up for sale and one can go to gun shows
for years and not see one except in S&W displays. According to THE STANDARD
CATALOG OF SMITH & WESSON, 4TH EDITION BY SUPICA AND NAHAS: This is a very
attractive gun, looking like a 2/3 scale New Model Number 3, and is highly
sought after. However, unfortunately, there has always seemed to be a
discrepancy between the number of guns supposedly manufactured and the
availability of this model on the collectors market. By manufacturing records,
this model should be about as common as the Baby Russian .38 SA, and maybe
twenty times more common than the Model of 1891 Single Shot, (approx. 1250 1891
Single Shots were made) with which it shares a common frame. However, our
subjective impression is that one sees ten .38 SA 1sts for every .38 SA 3rd, and
that the Model of 1891 Revolver is, if anything, scarcer than the Model of 1891
Single Shot. Of course, there is more info on this rare model in the book, but
that sums up the scarcity of this model pretty well. This nickel plated example
has the standard 4" barrel and is fitted with the rare and desirable mottled red
and black gutta percha grips that are in excellent condition showing no chips or
cracks and displaying a perfect fit. It has matching serial numbers on the
barrel, latch, frame and cylinder. The barrel has the correct "MODEL OF '91"
marking along with the usual patent dates etc. There is fine nickel on the
barrel with just some peeling at the muzzle on the right side and some peeling
along the left outside edge. The grip straps show some small evidence of wiped
off rust which left some small areas of light dark gray/brown pitting. There is
good nickel in the cylinder flutes with some peeling on the outside. The barrel
latch shows fine blue, screws are excellent, action is tight and the bore is
bright. This is a really fine early antique example with only light blemishes to
the nickel that are fairly minor and great mottled red grips. Many S&W
collectors have never seen one of these! (4 photos) $2250.
2) SHOULDER STOCKED NEW
MODEL No. 3, 7" BARREL, .44 RUSSIAN CALIBER REVOLVER, #13XXX. This fine
revolver falls a few numbers out of the Australian contract shoulder stocked
guns which numbered about 250. These guns were nickeled and had broad arrow
proof marks etc. as one would expect. Apparently, some that were shipped to
Western Australia lacked these proofs. This one is either one of these or
perhaps is a cut for stock overrun that was sold commercially. A factory letter
would prove interesting on this one. The shoulder stock is in factory new
condition and comes with the original green S&W box with excellent end label and
even the thin inside wrapping paper intact! The revolver itself retains
most of the original nickel finish with scattered small spots of peeling. There
is good blue on the barrel latch, the bore and markings are excellent and all
numbers match. The grips show normal light wear/handling. All cut-for-stock New
Model No. 3s are exceptionally rare whether commercial or Australian contract.
This is a truly fine set! (6 photos) $4350.
3) SMITH & WESSON RARITY:
.38-40 DOUBLE ACTION FRONTIER REVOLVER WITH 6 1/2" BARREL, SERIAL NUMBER 3X,
ONLY 276 MADE AND NUMBERED IN THEIR OWN SERIES, MADE FROM 1900-1910! Of the
few of these I've seen over the years, all have been in hard used condition.
This makes sense as anyone wanting a .38-40 revolver was probably spending a lot
of time in the outdoors (ranching most likely) and pairing it with a Winchester
or Marlin saddle rifle. This special model was offered in barrel lengths of 4",
5" and 6 1/2" lengths. This long barrel example was a nickel plated revolver
that now shows the original nickel in the more protected areas of around the
hammer and trigger guard and some nickel on the cylinder. The balance has flaked
and worn off revealing a dark uncleaned patina. The barrel markings on the top
of the barrel are good, but a bit worn and the .38 Winchester Ctg. marking on
the left side of the barrel is only partially visible. The serial numbers on the
barrel, frame and cylinder match. Mechanics are fine and the bore shows good
rifling with only minor scattered surface roughness. The frame sideplate screw
only appears to be a replacement. The grips fit perfectly and show normal wear,
but no chipping or cracks. Obviously this one was a working revolver and carried
many miles. A S&W letter might turn up some interesting information. This was a
popular caliber in the Southwest and Mexico at this time of the Mexican
Revolution. Lots of history in this extremely rare S&W! When you consider that
these revolvers were made in three barrel lengths and two finishes, the number
of 6 1/2" nickel examples would be very small. $3850.
4) SUPERB CONDITION,
ANTIQUE, FIRST MODEL .32 S&W SAFETY HAMMERLESS REVOLVER, #66XXX. The first
model was introduced in 1888 and made until 1902. It is recognizable by the
barrel latch being a "button" that is pushed to release the barrel for loading.
As all of this model being made before 1902 (119+ years ago), most show
considerable carry wear and often abuse. Being in use the longest, the First
Model is the most difficult to find in high condition. This example shows nearly
all the bright factory nickel with excellent markings and screws. the rear
sight/barrel latch and trigger guard also retain about all the bright blue and
there is still fine case color on the trigger. Barrel length is 3" and all the
numbers match. The hard rubber grips fit perfectly and are excellent. The
mechanics are excellent and the grip safety functions correctly. Overall a
superior pre-1899 antique S&W that is very hard to find in this condition. $795.
5) HIGH CONDITION AND VERY EARLY
PRODUCTION .22 LADYSMITH 3RD MODEL (.22 PERFECTED), #140XX, MADE 1911. The
serial numbers for the 3rd Model Ladysmith began with 13951 and ran through
26154 with only 12,203 being made from 1911-1921. As these were delicate 7-shot
revolvers and not suited for .22 LR High Speed ammo, many had their forcing
cones cracked or blown away altogether...or worse! The end result is that few of
these unusual Smiths have survived in any sort of condition and with excellent
examples hard to locate. This one has all matching numbers and is in desirable
blue finish (many of these show a "star" by the serial number on the butt
indicating a factory rework or reblue- this one does not have that). It has a 3
1/2" barrel with excellent forcing cone just ahead of the cylinder. This example
shows nearly all the original bright blue with only a small amount
scuffing and thinning on the back strap and normal high edges. All markings are
sharp and clear, the deep dish medallion grips are excellent and fit perfectly,
the hammer and trigger sides show fine case color and importantly, the action
functions as it should. and the bore is bright with any roughness scattered and
light. In all, one of the best I've seen in a very long time. (4 photos) $1795.
6) PRE-WAR .32-20 1905 HAND
EJECTOR, 4TH CHANGE REVOLVER WITH 6" BARREL, #140XXX, MADE LATE 1930s.
This one shows excellent markings, action and bore. The grips are a later style
with diamond checkering. Most of the blue remains with the grip straps turning gray
from handling/holster carry. There is also some minor edge wear and some small areasof brown flaking mainly on the forward parts of the barrel sides. Still
retains some good case color on the hammer and trigger. Superb pre-war hand
fitted action and tuning! $595.
7)
SINGLE SHOT THIRD MODEL "PERFECTED" .22 LR TARGET PISTOL, #8XXX.
Only 6,949 of these scarce pistols were made between 1909-1923. Serial numbers
ran from about 4600 to about 11600. That would put this one as being made in
about mid-production or the World War I time frame. The third model single shot
pistol differs from the first two variants in that it can be fired either single
or double action. This example has matching numbers on the frame, cylinder latch
and barrel. It also has the correct oversize "extension" checkered walnut grips
with deep set S&W medallions. The frame shows about all the original deep
blue with nice case color on the hammer and trigger. The 10" barrel has
excellent markings and shows nearly all the blue with only some very
light and minor scuffing/scratches to the left side. The adjustable target rear
sight retains the windage screw, but is lacking the thin sight blade only. The
pinned target front sight is intact. Action is excellent in both double action
and single action with a particularly light /crisp trigger pull. The left grip
panel is excellent with the right panel showing only modest handling marks.
Overall a nice condition, limited production S&W of which less than 7,000 were
made a hundred+ years ago. $1195.
8) RARELY ENCOUNTERED
ALUMINUM CYLINDER PRE-37 CHIEF SPECIAL AIRWEIGHT REVOLVER WITH ORIGINAL AND
VERY RARE SQUARE BUTT FRAME, #28XXX, MADE IN 1952-1954. Only 3,777 of
these small “J” frame revolvers were made with aluminum cylinders and of this
number only 900 were produced with square butt. Many, if not most, of these .38
Special “Mid-Range” chambered revolvers has their cylinders replaced with safer
steel cylinders. Today, it is considered unsafe to fire one of these that still
retains the original aluminum cylinder! Example with matching aluminum cylinder
would be considered a true S&W rarity. An original square butt This example has
matching numbers on the barrel, frame and cylinder. It was finished in a kind of
black finish that stuck to the aluminum almost like paint because normal blue
only works on steel. This aluminum blacking tends to chip and peel easily. This
revolver shows most of the black with only light scattered speckling mainly on
the edges and bottom of the trigger guard from handling/holster carry. There are
excellent case colors on the trigger and hammer. The bore is bright and
mechanically it is excellent. The diamond checkered grips fit well and are
correct, but not numbered to this revolver. It has the correct flat latch,
pinned barrel and four-screw frame. An almost never seen variation. $895.
WINCHESTERS (click text for photos)
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SELDOM
SEEN AND DIFFICULT TO ACQUIRE 1873 SADDLE RING CARBINE IN VERY LIMITED
PRODUCTION .32WCF (.32-20) CALIBER! This rare saddle ring carbine is
serial number 601XXX and according to the call-in sheet I got from the Cody
Museum, was shipped March 5, 1907. Most of these late 1873s were exported and
when found are in horrible condition. This one has seen use, but is very
decent. Easily identifiable by the front magazine retaining band instead of
the normal barrel band found on .38-40 and .44-40 carbines. The receiver shows
even aged blue that is also evenly mixed with a most attractive plum (but
certainly not brown or gray). Fine blue on the loading gate, mellow, uncleaned
brass lifter with "32 CAL" markings, original dust cover, surprisingly
excellent screws, barrel and magazine blue similar to the receiver with a
tinge more brown to the plum and some light freckling on the barrel. Original
carbine rear sight needs the slide and screw only, front sight boss is correct
with a high blade pinned in. The end tip of the magazine tube on the right
side looks like it was dinged and pushed some side metal back about 1/4 of an
inch- minor. Fine barrel and tang markings. Bore is a bit dark with light
pitting, but good rifling all the way through. Lever spring only is a little
weak. Walnut stock and forearm show normal handling, but no abuse. There is a
stress crack coming back from the upper tang for a couple of inches on each
side that go nowhere. Tight wood to metal fit and correct butt plate without
the trap for cleaning rods- only the .32 WCF carbines lack this. One can
search for a '73 Saddle Ring Carbine in .32-20 for years and not see one!
$3250.
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EARLY,
FIRST MODEL "OPEN TOP" 1876 ROUND BARREL RIFLE, .45-75 CALIBER, #5XX,
MADE 1876. Only the approx. first 3,000 of these were made with no
provision for a dust cover. After these were made, like the earlier Model
1873, dust covers became standard. Many first models had dust covers fitted,
plus the small survival rate of early rifles makes an unaltered example
extremely rare today. This example is in "attic condition" showing no evidence
of cleaning. The receiver is a mixture of very aged blue and gray/brown with
good blue in the most protected areas and on the loading gate. The 28" barrel
and magazine show an attractive even aged blue/brown patina. The front sight
is a Rocky Mountain blade while the rear sight is a slightly later long ladder
sight with slide intact- is is stamped 1886 on the top portion of the ladder.
This is actually a fairly scarce and valuable Winchester sight. Action is
fine, half cock notch holds and the mellow brass lifter is uncleaned and
unpolished. Barrel and tang markings are all clear and screws are fine. The
butt stock is solid with good wood to metal fit and shows only normal
handling. The forearm also shows good wood to metal fit and has a partial age
crack on the under side running back from the forend cap for a few inches and
stops- there is no play in the wood and the forend is basically solid and
secure. The bore is surprisingly fine showing good rifling all the way through
with any roughness being scattered and light. Overall a handsome and extremely
rare 145 year old Model 1876! These early first models seldom show up. $5300.
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EXTREMELY RARE, SPECIAL ORDER 1876 "SHORT RIFLE" WITH 24" OCTAGON BARREL, SET
TRIGGER, .45-60 CALIBER, #29XXX, WITH FACTORY LETTER VERIFYING ALL FEATURES
AND SHOWING A SHIPPING DATE OF 1882. According to The Winchester handbook
by George Madis, only 79 Model 1876 rifles were made with barrels shorter than
standard (standard for this caliber was 28") and only 4562 were made with set
triggers. This example has a nice, uncleaned and unmessed with appearance. The
barrel shows an even very aged blue-plum brown appearance with fine markings.
It is fitted with the desirable "sporting" ladder rear sight (looks like an
elongated carbine sight) that is stamped 1876 along with a standard Winchester
blade front sight. The magazine tube is similarly aged to brown with no
evidence of cleaning. The receiver is a naturally aged gray-brown also showing
no evidence of ever having been cleaned. The brass lifter is a mellow
un-polished patina and is clearly stamped "45-60" and shows no dings. It
retains the dust cover and the mechanics are tight. The set trigger will set
and release, but the small adjustment screw is missing. The stock and forend
show only light handling with very tight wood to metal fit. Screw heads are
fine and the bore is fairly bright with fine rifling all the way through with
only very light scattered roughness. In all a very scarce variation in honest
condition that is most attractive. $5800.
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ONE OF THE
MOST UNUSUAL AND RARE 1885 THICKSIDE HIGHWALL SINGLE SHOT RIFLES I’VE
SEEN. This one is a very early thick side rifle #5XXX that according to
the factory letter was shipped in 1886 as a caliber .45 2-3/8 (this has to be
a mistake as there is no “.45 2-3/8” cartridge. Probably meant .45 2-7/8) It
further states it had a 30” #4 weight octagon barrel with plain trigger. Now,
here’s the fascinating part: It was “Returned by Meacham, October 29, 1894,
Received in warehouse on February 27, 1895” and listed as “Rifle, 30 Gov’t.,
Octagon barrel” (again, an obvious mistake as the .30 Gov’t. or .30-40 Krag
caliber was never available in an octagon barrel, only chambered in nickel
steel round barrels). “Plain trigger, 30 inches, #3 ship date and order
number blank.” Here are some interesting things to consider: The first
smokeless caliber in the famed Model 1894 lever action rifle was the .30 WCF
or .30-30 in late 1895 to early 1896- no doubt earlier than the year
this rifle was changed to the new smokeless .30-40 Krag cartridge that was
introduced in the U.S. Springfield Krag rifle in 1894, the same year this
rifle was returned to Winchester. Whoever returned this rifle to be
changed to the new military cartridge that was just out must have been a very
savvy individual when it came to the latest guns and cartridges! Remember,
this was before any kind of information getting out beyond newspapers and
printed journals didn’t exist.. Word didn’t spread particularly fast in 1894!
Winchester had this rifle from Oct. 29, 1894 until February 27, 1895 before
shipping it back- that’s almost 4 months. Makes me wonder if they had to tool
up for the new chambering. In the Model 1894, they didn’t have nickel steel
barrels for the new smokeless .30 WCF round until late 1895 or early 1896 and
this is why the first rifles made in 1894 were for the black powder .32-40 and
.38-55 rounds. Winchester introduced the Model 1895 lever action box magazine
rifle in 1895 with the standard caliber being .30-40 Krag. But, the earliest
Model 1895s carry a patent date of Nov. 5, 1895 which leads me to believe that
rifles didn’t start coming out of the factory until after that date. This
would be supported by the fact that only 287 rifles in all calibers (including
the black powder .38-72 and .40-72) were made in 1895. Another interesting
aspect of this Highwall rifle is that the caliber is simply stamped on the
barrel top ahead of the receiver “30 N.S.” Since the only .30 caliber
cartridges at this time (not including the .303 British) were the .30 WCF
(possibly) and .30-40 Krag or Gov’t., I think the “N.S.” stood for Nickel
Steel. So, in conclusion, it was shipped before the Model 1895 began
production and certainly before the Model 1894 was chambered in .30 WCF (or
.25-35 at the same time). Could Winchester have chambered another Highwall
single shot in .30-40 Krag before this one? Yes, the first .30-40 Krag
chambered in a Highwall was in April, 1894. I’m thinking it very probably may
have been an ammo test rifle or a prototype smokeless rifle and not
necessarily a standard sporter sold to the public as they had not even geared
up to manufacture sporting ammo in this caliber yet. But I believe this first
.30-40 was probably NOT a thick side action. There were a little over 1,000 Highwalls made in .30-40 Krag and I believe all were on thin side actions. If
you have read this far, here’s the description of this rifle: generally fine
blue on the barrel with only a little dulling from age and a thin area down
the left side of the barrel where some light rust had formed at one time and
been wiped off with an oily rag- nothing unsightly. The bore is slightly dark,
but excellent and free of any pitting with sharp rifling. The receiver is a
mottled gray with some small traces of case color in the most protected areas,
tight action, fine butt stock and forearm with ebony inlay in the schnable
tip, tight wood to metal fit, fitted with a Marbles tang sight paired with a
Rocky Mountain blade front sight and a slot filler in the rear dovetail.
Probably the only thick side Highwall in .30-40 Krag! $3450.
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VERY
HIGH CONDITION 1892 .32-20 OCTAGON BARREL RIFLE, #277XXX, WITH CODY MUSEUM
CALL-IN SHEET. The factory info verifies the caliber/barrel and
shows it was received in the warehouse on January 5, 1905 and shipped May 29,
1906. This example retains bright receiver blue with only a little
thinning/plum on the underside of the receiver by the serial number and on the
upper tang. The barrel and mag also retain about all the original deep blue.
Even the forend cap shows most of the blue with only slight thinning on the
forward edge. Excellent screws and markings. Standard Winchester buckhorn rear
sight with small blade front sight. Excellent wood with tight wood to metal
fit, exc. bore and tight action. There is still some case color on the upper
portion of the lever sides and on the back of the hammer. A really great
condition investment quality 116 year old '92. $3250.
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EARLY
1892 32-20 ROUND BARREL RIFLE, #124XXX, MADE 1899. This rifle has a Cody
Museum call-in sheet that comes with it showing that the Serial number was
applied on October 27, 1899. It further verifies all aspects of this rifle as
factory original and indicates it was received in the warehouse on December
22, 1899 and shipped January 2, 1900. Overall metal shows an uncleaned very
dark aged brown patina with good aged blue in protected areas and on the
loading gate. The stock and forearm show normal light handling with no abuse,
cracks or chips. Original buckhorn rear sight with original Winchester small
blade front sight. Tight wood to metal fit, generally excellent screws and
good markings. Bore is a little dark with good rifling all the way through
showing some light wear/frost. Nice "attic condition" 121 year old 1892 with
attractive appearance. $1295.
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VERY UNUSUAL 1894 SPECIAL ORDER TAKEDOWN, EXTRA LIGHT WEIGHT, 24" ROUND
BARREL/HALF MAGAZINE SHORT RIFLE, WITH CHECKERED PISTOL GRIP AND SHOTGUN BUTT
STOCK, 30WCF, #120328. The factory letter that accompanies this rifle
verifies all of the above including the "rubber butt plate" and shows it was
received in the warehouse and shipped in August 1901. According to a survey of
the Model 1894 records, only 1661 rifles were made with 24" barrels and of
these I'm pretty sure very few were round and extra lightweight.
Add to this the pistol grip stock, checkering, shotgun butt plate, 1/2
magazine and takedown feature and one is left with an extremely rare rifle!
This one shows fine deep barrel blue with only light ageing. Being extra
light, it is fitted with a short ramp front sight with a Beach combination
folding globe front sight (the barrel is actually too thin at the muzzle to be
safely dovetailed!). the receiver shows some good thinning blue on the sides
and bolt with the majority fading to gray/brown. Screws are excellent and the
left side of the receiver is fitted with a Lyman receiver sight adjustable for
windage and elevation. It appears to have been on this rifle for many decades
as the blue on the receiver is strong around this sight where it was
protected. the butt stock shows tight wood to metal fit and the Winchester
embossed butt plate is solid and not chipped or cracked. Checkering on the
pistol grips shows light wear and the grip cap with engraved screw is
excellent. There is a tiny compass (working) inletted in the middle of the
butt stock on the right side- when woodsmen and hunters relied on their back
country skill instead of GPS! The forend shows a little more wear to the
checkering, but it is all visible. Takedown is tight and bore has sharp
rifling all the way through and is fairly bright. Tight action with strong
springs. Winchester couldn't have made many exactly like this! $2950.
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SPECIAL ORDER 1894 HALF-OCTAGON, FULL MAGAZINE RIFLE IN .30 WCF CALIBER,
#775XXX, MADE 1915. This one came out of here in Montana and shows fine
deep original blue on the barrel and magazine with only the most minor or
scuffing/edge wear. The right side of the receiver and bolt show good
thinning blue with the left side flaking to mainly cloudy-gray with good blue
in the protected areas. The wood is excellent with only the lightest of
handling and displaying a little better than standard grade walnut which was
Winchesters usual way of choosing wood for special order guns. The screws look
unturned, the action is tight and the bore bright and excellent. Fine blue on
the loading gate. It has the typical Winchester flat top buckhorn rear sight
and standard front sight along with a tang sight fitted in the factory holes.
the half octagon barrel with full magazine was actually two special features
as half octagon barrels were standard with half-magazines unless specified
otherwise. Scarce variation, $1895.
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EARLY
1895 SADDLE RING CARBINE, .30-40 KRAG CALIBER, #27XXX, WITH FACTORY LETTER
SHOWING SHIPMENT IN AUGUST OF 1900. These were especially popular with the
Arizona and Texas Rangers during this time. This is a fine example that still
shows fine barrel blue with only a couple of small spots of minor scuffs.
Front sight is a pinned blade/bead in the original ramp along with the
original long ladder rear sight. The receiver and bolt show good and
thinning blue in the more protected areas of the receiver and magazine with
the balance ageing/mixing gray. The action is tight and the bore is sharp and
excellent. All markings are sharp. The butt stock is generally excellent with
only light handling and tight wood to metal fit. The forend also shows light
handling. The matching handguard (these almost always missing) has a thin
crack coming forward from the receiver ring to the right corner by the rear
sight. The forend is tight and fits properly. A fine and early example.
(4 photos) $2400.
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1895 28"
BARREL STANDARD RIFLE IN .30 ARMY (.30-40 KRAG) CALIBER, #415XXX, MADE 1922.
This 99 year old Winchester shows honest use with no abuse. The barrel
retains fine thinning/ageing blue with deeper blue toward the receiver. The
receiver blue has aged to an even uncleaned brown with some good blue on the
magazine mainly on the left side. Standard front sight with buckhorn rear
sight (needs elevator bar only). All markings sharp and clear. Forend and butt
stock show normal light handling marks. The butt stock has a couple of stress
cracks coming forward for an inch or so on each side from the butt plate
a little above the toe as well as one at the bottom of the right side lower
section of the receiver/lower tang juncture that is also fairly minor. the
forend retains the factory ebony wedge inlay in the schnable tip. Tight
action, strong springs and safety notch on the hammer, bore a bit dark with
fine rifling all the way through and no areas of pitting. Interestingly, the
left side of the stock has a nicely carved two initial monogram with the
intertwined letters "F" and "G" or perhaps "C". If only these old rifles could
speak! Nice appearance overall. $1595.
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RARELY SEEN SEMI- DELUXE PISTOL
GRIPPED, CHECKERED MODEL 1903 .22 AUTO RIFLE, MADE 1915. A fairly plain
but solid walnut stock and forend, this was someone's well used and taken care
of "pride and joy" rifle as the checkering is all there, but fairly worn. The
blue on the receiver is pretty well aged to an uncleaned gray with good blue
in the most protected of areas. It has the correct pistol grip cap.
Interestingly, this one was returned to the factory for a new barrel at some
point as the barrel has both the oval P "Mail Order" proof as well as the
Winchester proof- this means, the rifle was sent back to Winchester who then
took a "Mail Order" replacement barrel out of stock and fitted it to the
returned rifle- thus, the Mail Order plus Winchester Proof marks. The barrel
has all the correct Winchester and Model 1903 markings and shows fine deep
blue and retains some thinning blue on the forend cap. Exc. mech., exc. bright
bore, buckhorn with blade/bead front sights. I believe CCI still sells .22
Auto ammo (different from .22 LR), pistol gripped/checkered Model 1903s are
quite rare. Winchester's first auto loading rifle! $795.
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VERY FINE CONDITION MODEL 04A, SINGLE
SHOT .22 SHORT, LONG AND LONG RIFLE BOLT ACTION BOYS' RIFLE. Made from
1904-1931, the Model 1904 series was an upgraded and more expensive version of
the simpler and smaller Model 1902. As such the '04 did not sell
as well as the cheaper model. It featured a 21 inch barrel, flowing style
trigger guard and schnable forend tip. Early examples were chambered in .22
Short, Long and Extra Long. After 1927 the "extra long" was replaced with the
desirable "Long Rifle." This late model is so marked and chambered. Most 1904
rifles are found in atrocious condition as they were owned and used very hard
by boys (and maybe a few girls). Stocks are usually found dinged and cracked
and metal is usually lacking finish, showing rust and abuse. Bores are
almost universally in the "sewer pipe" category. This example is an
exception. The stock is very fine showing the original un-sanded light brown
finish with no cracks or chips (!), the Winchester embossed hard rubber butt
plate is also not chipped or cracked. Only the high edge around the schnable
tip shows some normal wear. The metal still retains good blue that is a little
aged and mixing with some plum- but mainly blue. The barrel also retains the
original sights. Best of all, the bore is bright and excellent! Really
difficult to find like this. Even the trigger guard retains nice aged
plum/blue. $695.
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PRE-64 MODEL 67A SINGLE SHOT BOLT ACTION .22 S., L., & LR RIFLE.
The model 67 was introduced in 1934 as a simple and rugged rifle made
especially safe because after loading a single shell, the bolt knob has to be
manually pulled back to cock the action for firing. It could just as easily be
de-cocked by holding the knob and slowly and safely lowering it forward again.
This was especially appealing to parents purchasing a rifle for their sons
(and daughters). There is also a safety lever on the rear of the bolt that
when the bolt is cocked can be rotated to the 12 o'clock position to lock the
bolt and keeps the rifle from firing. The Model 67 and later 67A was
discontinued in 1963. It is one of the last of the solid steel and walnut
rifles from Winchester made without alloys etc. This one is in fine condition
inside and out. It has particularly nicely finished straight grain walnut and
the Winchester embossed butt plate is not chipped or cracked. The 27" barrel
retains nearly all of the lightly aged blue and has the original buckhorn rear
sight that needs only the thin elevator bar and original simple blade front
sight. The trigger guard retains most of the blue with minor freckling, action
is tight and the bore is fine. $275.
BILL GOODMAN,
P. O. BOX 2002, BOZEMAN, MONTANA 59771
TEL. (406) 587-3131
FAX (406) 219-3415
montanaraven@hotmail.com
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
THESE WERE SUCH GOOD NOTES FROM THE FIELD I'M KEEPING THEM HERE.
CRACKED STOCKS! Seems
like an odd thing to write about, but this is something I've not seen in print
before. I've observed a lot of rifles with cracks coming straight back toward
the butt plate from the upper and lower tangs. Sometimes the cracks are severe
enough to warrant repairs (like cross bolts etc. through the wrist or extensive
gluing) and other times the stock remains pretty solid as is. So what
caused this condition in the first place? I've hunted with all kinds of
rifles in all kinds of weather and terrain and never had a gun get damaged like
all these I've seen. And I've taken some pretty bad falls too. Once, on
ice I couldn't see beneath a couple inches of fresh snow, my feet went out from
under me and my rifle landed a number of yards away! Still, no cracks like
these. So I've been puzzled by this for some time. Then it hit me, since
these guns all seemed like Western big game rifles- large lever actions like
1876 and 1886 Winchesters or Marlin 1881 and 1895s as well as all over while the rifles were in saddle scabbards- fairly common in icy
winter conditions, especially in the mountains. Also, sometimes horses will walk
so close to trees that they rub against them. If a rifle is in a
butt-forward position scabbard, the rifle can go on one side of the tree and the
horse the other causing a stress cracked stock. Maybe I'm wrong, but I
don't think so. The wrists are fairly strong on most rifles and it takes a
lot to crack one. If anyone else has a different theory about this
condition, I'd like to hear it!
"GUNS OF THE GREAT DEPRESSION YEARS" When the Great
Depression began with the Stock Market Crash of 1929 America was taken by
surprise. Prior to this pivotal event, in the gun industry production was
high and sales were brisk. Almost overnight sales fell off hugely.
The Winchester Handbook by George Madis shows production numbers by years
of some of the major models. This is pretty illuminating. Here are
some examples: Model 1890 .22RF had 12,367 produced in 1928 and 696 made in
1932; Model 1892 saw 64,833 produced in 1910 and 491 in 1930; Model 53 had 2,861
produced in 1925 and 30 made in 1937; Model 1894 had 29,967 made in 1927 and
only1,192 made in 1934; Model 55 had 3,064 made in 1927 and 42 made in 1936.
Colt, Marlin, Savage, Remington and Smith & Wesson etc. all felt the same
pressure. With production down to a fraction of what it was, the big
manufacturers had no choice but to fire employees. Those lucky enough to
be retained were the most highly skilled and experienced craftsmen. They
also had time to put extra fine fitting and finishing into each firearm.
Generally, the quality of these guns is truly exceptionally. With
production numbers of these late pre-war arms relatively small and quality
without peer, their value should be assured. Some of the scarce large
frame Colt and S&W handguns- especially the target sighted versions- are almost
breathtaking in their fit an d finish. This has been an
under-appreciated niche in arms collecting/investing. It is my belief Great
Depression era arms are often "sleepers" on the antique market today and
are bound to increase in value at a rapid pace making them excellent long term
investments.
I
have found a new shooting activity that I'm sure a number of
folks who check out my website will either want to try themselves or will at
least find interesting reading. I've discovered the fun of BLACK POWDER
SHOTSHELLS. And no, I'm not new to black powder. I've been shooting muzzle
loaders since I was a kid (I was too young to buy ammo, but a can of black
powder and a single shot muzzle loading pistol kept me shooting!) I've shot
black powder cartridge rifles and some handguns since the 1970s. I've also
tried a few muzzle loading shotguns, but a while back I noticed Midway was
offering reloadable brass shotshells made by Magtech in Brazil. They cost
about a buck a piece and come in a box of 25. So I thought this looked
interesting and bought a box. They prime with a large pistol primer (I use
CCI Large Pistol Mag. Primers) and require no special tools to load.
I did buy a "cowboy 12 ga. shell holder" by RCBS which makes priming easier, but
one can prime using a dowel, hammer and a flat surface to seat the primer.
Anyway, I loaded with various loads of black powder as well as Alliant Black MZ
black powder substitute. 27.3 grains equals one dram, so a typical heavy field load of
3 1/2 drams equals about 95 grains (by volume) of black powder or substitute. I load
that through a drop tube to better settle the powder, using a wood dowel I seat
an over powder card wad, then a cushion wad, pour in 1 1/8 oz. of shot from an
antique shot dipper I picked up somewhere along the line, top with another over
powder wad and then put about three small drops of CLEAR
NON-FOAMING Gorilla glue on this top wad at the edge. Last, using a
Q-tip sweep it around the wad edge. It dries making a nice seal with the inside
of the brass case brass case and holds everything together (note: this is the best glue
I've tried, but do NOT use the brown foaming Gorilla glue as it pushes the wad
up when dry and is awful to correct!). Firing removes any glue residue from the
case. I picked up a particularly nice Remington 1889 double barrel with
exposed hammers (damascus with exc. bores) and tried out my loads on some thrown
clays. I'm not a good shot with a scattergun, but when I felt I was on,
the clay targets broke as nicely as if I'd been using a modern smokeless
shotgun. I used this double on a pheasant hunt last fall and did just fine with
it. Truthfully, it made the hunt so much more fun I don't know if I'd go
again with one of my modern guns! Recently I tried
the same shells in a Winchester 1887 Lever Action 12 ga. that was made in 1888.
It fed beautifully and was a blast to shoot (no pun intended). The brass cases
de-prime with a simple Lee type punch and clean up with hot soapy water. No
resizing is required for the next loading. Pretty simple. The 12 ga.
cases are 2 1/2" long, which is exactly what a modern 2 3/4" case measures
LOADED AND UNFIRED. Remember, many of the older guns, like the Winchester 1887,
have 2 5/8" chambers. You don't want to shoot a 2 3/4" shell in them as they
won't be able to open up all the way causing pressures to jump etc. I don't
think Magtech offers brass cases in 10 ga. but they do in the smaller gauges.
There are a lot of older shotguns out there that can often be purchased
inexpensively and make wonderful shooters. Be sure to have any gun checked
out by a gunsmith if you have doubts about it. With these brass cases and ease
of loading, it's worth trying. Buffalo Arms in Idaho sells the correct
size wads for these brass cases- they actually take 11 ga. wads. If you give
this a try, I think you'll be glad you did- Bill Goodman
William T. Goodman, P.O. Box 2002, Bozeman, MT 59771 (406)
587-3131 fax (406) 219-3415
montanaraven@hotmail.com