1866 Winchester for Sale
Looking to buy 1866 Winchester? Discover new and used listings from verified sellers across the U.S. Only on GunsAmerica.
Quick Look
The 1866 Winchester, also known as the "Yellow Boy," is a lever-action rifle introduced by Winchester Repeating Arms Company in the late 19th century. It features a robust design that set the standard for lever-action rifles with a tubular magazine and reliable firing mechanism. Today, it remains a popular collectible and historical firearm, prized by enthusiasts and reenactors.
Why It's a Top Choice
- Solid lever-action design with smooth cycling
- Iconic brass receiver for durability and aesthetics
- Chambered in .44 Henry rimfire for historical authenticity
- Strong aftermarket support for parts and restoration
- Proven ruggedness in late 19th-century frontier use
Key Variants
Winchester 1866 Rifle
The original model known for pioneering lever-action rifle design and brass receiver construction.
Winchester 1866 Short Rifle
Compact version favored for cavalry and dispatch use due to its shorter barrel and lighter weight.
Competitor Comparison Table
| Feature | 1866 Winchester | Henry Model 1860 | Spencer Repeating Rifle |
|---|---|---|---|
| MSRP (Historic) | N/A (circa 1860s) | N/A (circa 1860) | N/A (circa 1865) |
| Capacity/Size | Tubular, 15 rounds (.44 Henry) | Tubular, 16 rounds (.44 Henry) | Tubular, 7 rounds (.56-56 Spencer) |
| Weight | Approx. 7.5 lbs | Approx. 7.9 lbs | Approx. 9 lbs |
| Optics-Ready | No | No | No |
| Trigger Type | Single-action lever | Single-action lever | Single-action lever |
| Notable Pro | First brass-framed lever-action rifle | More rounds capacity than 1866 Winchester | Used extensively in Civil War by Union troops |
| Notable Con | Limited cartridge caliber options | Less durable frame than Winchester's brass | Lower capacity compared to competitors |
Best Use Cases
- Historical reenactments and collections
- Traditional hunting with period calibers
- Home defense in rural settings (historical context)
- Target shooting and lever-action practice
- Displaying firearm engineering evolution
FAQs
Can I shoot modern ammo in an 1866 Winchester?
No, it uses the original .44 Henry rimfire cartridge only; modern ammunition is incompatible and unsafe.
What is the significance of the brass frame?
The brass frame offers corrosion resistance and distinctive durability, making the 1866 Winchester visually unique and historically important.
How does the lever-action work on the 1866 Winchester?
Operating the lever ejects the spent cartridge and chambers a new round from the tubular magazine smoothly with each cycle.
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