Winchester 1887 12GA

Updated September 9, 2026

Winchester Model 1887 Lever-Action Shotgun — Antique Case-Colored Receiver Offered here is a genuine antique Winchester Model 1887 lever-action shotgun, the John Browning-designed classic manufactured by the Winchester Repeating Arms Company of New Haven, Connecticut. This example bears a serial number stamped clearly on the lower tang, and features the iconic external hammer, large lever-loop, and tube magazine that made the Model 1887 one of the most recognizable repeating shotguns of the American West era. Details at a Glance Maker: Winchester Repeating Arms Co., New Haven, CT Model: 1887 Lever-Action Shotgun Action: Exposed hammer, lever-action repeater Stock: Figured walnut, straight grip Finish: Case-colored receiver, blued barrel Patent Dates: Feb. 16 & July 20, 1886 Key Features Manufacturer markings: Barrel address clearly roll-stamped "MANUFACTURED BY THE WINCHESTER REPEATING ARMS CO. — NEW HAVEN, CONN., U.S.A." with patent dates "PAT. FEB. 16. & JULY 20. 1886" referencing John Moses Browning's original patents Receiver marking: Case-colored steel receiver retains vivid mottled color, with the oval "W.R.A. Co." maker's cartouche crisply struck on the left side Action type: Lever-action, exposed-hammer repeater with a large, distinctive oversized lever loop Stock and forend: Nicely figured walnut buttstock with visible tiger/fiddleback grain, straight-grip configuration, checkered-free period style Barrel: Long round barrel in blued finish, showing honest, attractive patina consistent with age and use Serial number: Plainly visible and matching on the frame Condition Notes This Winchester 1887 shows the desirable, honest wear of a well-used late 19th-century sporting arm: strong traces of case-hardening color remain on the receiver, the bore and exterior metal show a pleasing blue-brown patina, and the walnut stock displays natural handling marks, minor dings, and rich original color. Screws, pins, and the lever mechanism all appear present and correctly fitted. Why Collectors Want This Gun The Winchester Model 1887 was Winchester's first lever-action shotgun, designed by John Moses Browning specifically to compete with pump and break-action shotguns of the day. Produced from 1887 until it was superseded by the Model 1901, original Model 1887s in 12 or 10 gauge are highly sought after by Winchester collectors, Old West firearms enthusiasts, and antique lever-action shotgun collectors alike — further popularized in modern times by its Hollywood appearances (most famously the sawed-off "Mare's Leg"-style variants). An example retaining strong case colors, clear maker's marks, and a legible serial number like this one is a genuine addition to any Winchester lever-action or antique shotgun collection.

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