Winchester 12 Gauge Shotgun

Antique 138-years-old Winchester Model 1887 lever action 12G gauge shotgun. Based on its Serial Number of 9168 - it was actually made in 1888. In very good original condition. Designed by John M. Browning for Winchester Repeating Arms. This Model 1887 shotgun is a lever-action rolling block design, chambered for 12-gauge 2 5⁄8” black powder shells only. Category B firearms classification. This strong rolling block design, operated by the traditional Winchester lever action, was favored by express companies and law enforcement. Like most of John M. Browning’s designs, the action of the Model 1887 is unique and distinctive with a minimum of moving parts. It is extraordinarily simple - the action only has 16 parts. The humped-back action is actually compact when you consider that the shotgun was chambered for the 12- (and 10-gauge) shells. The secret to its compact design is that it is a true, enclosed rolling block. As the lever is opened, the breechblock rotates away and down from the chamber. As the lever is closed, the breechblock rotates up and forward, another shell is positioned to be chambered by a lifter being fed from a 5-round tubular magazine, and the recessed hammer is fully cocked. There is an interference built into the parts so that the lever must be fully closed and locked before the gun can be fired. The hammer features a 1/2-cock safety notch, which is engaged by lowering the hammer as the trigger is pulled. All Model 1887 shotguns have the “WRA Co.” monogram engraved on the left side of the receiver frame, and were case color hardened. A very collectable and historical shotgun. VERY RARE IN AUSTRALIA !