WINCHESTER "94" TRADE

[hotshot357]

I'm working on a trade for a pre 64 Winchester, I hope, and I would like to know what to look for. I requested the owner to provide the serial number first off. He states he bought it in the "90's" and never shot it. He also states that it's old. I also ask him to allow me to see the rifle in person. He has agreed to that. My plan is, when I get the opportunity to see the rifle, is to look at the bore and overall condition of the rifle. I'm also going to bring some ammo and cycle it through the action. He is a long time friend so I'm sure he will allow me to take it to my LGS, who is a Winchester collector, and get his opinion on the rifle. I'm sure he will be able to tell me if it's in "shooting condition". Is there anything else I should look for? This is my first "collectible" purchase but I would like it to be a "shooter" also !!! Thanks, any suggestions are appreciated.

 

[LoonWulf]

Not a lever gun guy, or a collector, so can't really help, but best of luck!

 

[jmr40]

IIRC SN above 2,700,000 are post 64. This website is pretty accurate with older Winchesters. Anything made since about 1980 may not work. Once you have the SN you can get a DOM here

https://winchestercollector.org/dates/

MOST of the 94's made after WW-2 are shooters. Even the pre-64's. Unless it is some odd configuration or in an oddball cartridge. Of course even the common pre-64's do command a premium over newer guns. It might not be something you want to use and abuse on a daily basis, but chances are it won't be something you'd be afraid to take hunting or shooting.

The ones made prior to the war tend to be more collectible. I'm far from an expert. But I know enough about Winchesters to know it gets REAL complicated. Sometimes 2 seemingly identical rifles will vary considerably in value due to minor differences in features, condition, and when made. It would be a good idea to let someone else who does know about them look at it.

 

[earlthegoat2]

Among pre-64s, there are many in less than collector grade condition.

 

[Armybrat]

Among pre-64s, there are many in less than collector grade condition.

Like my 1917 production .30-30 saddle ring carbine.
No finish, strong rifling but dark bore, stocks lightly sanded prior to the 1950s, but the action is pretty smooth & tight. Solid gun that was used in the Mexican Revolucion by the original owner my dad bought it from over 50 years ago. Or so his old friend said.

 

[hotshot357]

Like my 1917 production .30-30 saddle ring carbine.
No finish, strong rifling but dark bore, stocks lightly sanded prior to the 1950s, but the action is pretty smooth & tight. Solid gun that was used in the Mexican Revolucion by the original owner my dad bought it from over 50 years ago. Or so his old friend said.

View attachment 930895

I hope the one I'm looking at looks as good as yours !!!! Mighty fine Armybrat !! I'm "green with envy".