First Post: Questions about my original 1876 w/oddities

[John Harper]

1876 Fans,

I found this forum a couple days ago.  I have owned an original 76 since 1975 with features that I find possibly suited to being used as an actual old west buffalo hunting rifle.

It was made in 1881, caliber .45-60, with a 24" barrel (I think standard was 26"), heavy profile barrel (from flat to flat), plus a single set trigger assembly.  It was obviously special ordered, and I always figured the shorter barrel would make carrying on a horse easier, and the heavy barrel making it more accurate at long range. 

I made cartridges for it years ago from .45-70 brass, RCBS ordered dies, and home cast lead, it shot extremely accurately.

Haven't fired it in 30 years since I lost the brass along the way.  Maybe some of you can give me some input or information.

Thank you,

John Harper

[Cimarron]

Have you contacted the Buffalo Bill Historical Center in Cody, WY?  They have the Winchester records and can provide you information about your rifle.  It sounds like a wonderful rifle.

[Grizzly Adams]

Howdy, John Harper.  Sounds like you have an interesting 1876!  We would really enjoy seeing some pics of your rifle, if you can put some up for us.  The Cody letter is the best way to determine exactly what configuration the rifle was when it was shipped and what special features it had.  Also, I know Buck Stinson would be interested in adding your rifle to his  data base.

Welcome to the fire!

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[John Harper]

Thanks for the information.  I'll try to post up some pictures, I'm assuming I can use photobucket like on my fishing forums.  Will also contact the BBHS in Cody, see what they can tell me.

John

[Sir Charles deMouton-Black]

Here is a site for dates of manufacture;

http://oldguns.net/sn_php/winmods.htm

For the special order stuff, follow Cimarron's advice

[Grizzly Adams]

Thanks for the information.  I'll try to post up some pictures, I'm assuming I can use photobucket like on my fishing forums.  Will also contact the BBHS in Cody, see what they can tell me.

John

Hi, John,

Photobucket will work great.  I find it to be very easy to use.