Classic Winchester Rifles of the Old West

Posted by Jim Olson on Sep 5th 2025

When one thinks of the Old West, it is easy to imagine a lever-action Winchester rifle in the hands of a cowboy, lawman, outlaw or Native American. These rifles weren’t just props in movies, they were real tools of survival across the frontier. Most of what we know today about the Old West comes from books and movies. While entertaining, Hollywood often takes liberties with historical accuracy. For example, classic Western films commonly feature rifles that weren’t even invented during the timeframe being depicted on screen. However, the image of the lever-action Winchester has stuck in our minds, and for good reason — it’s an icon.

So, what were the real Winchester lever-action models used in the Old West? Let’s take a closer look at the core models produced during the second half of the 1800s—the ones every enthusiast and budding collector should know about.

Winchester Lever Actions (1866–1895)

Model 1866 – The “Yellow Boy”

The first true Winchester rifle following Oliver Winchester’s acquisition of New Haven Arms, the Model 1866 was essentially an improved version of the earlier Henry rifle. It featured a distinctive brass frame—earning it the nickname “Yellow Boy”—and was chambered in .44 rimfire. Around 170,000 were produced between 1866 and 1898 and today, they are highly sought after for their unique look and history.

Model 1873 – “The Gun That Won the West”

Arguably the most famous Winchester ever made, the model of 1873 was the company’s first centerfire model. With nearly 720,000 produced, it was widely used across the frontier. It’s easily recognized by its raised side plate on the receiver and rectangular brass spot on the bottom of the frame. Chambered in popular calibers of the day, the 1873 earned its legendary nickname because of its widespread use during frontier expansion.

Model 1876 – The Centennial Rifle

The 1876 looked similar to the 1873 but was built for larger calibers. Introduced at the 1876 Centennial Exposition, it became known as the "Centennial" model. Early versions were chambered in .45-75, but even larger calibers soon followed. With about 64,000 made, the 1876 is more scarce than its contemporaries, and it is prized among collectors for its power and rarity.

Model 1886 – Browning’s Breakthrough

Designed by legendary firearms innovator John Moses Browning, the Model 1886 was a true game-changer. It was built to handle the larger, more powerful cartridges better than any prior lever-action model. Around 160,000 were made in various large calibers. This model was favored by none other than Theodore Roosevelt, and it cemented Browning’s long-term partnership with Winchester.

Model 1892 – Hollywood’s Favorite

Often seen in the hands of John Wayne or Chuck Connors, the Model 1892 is more famous in pop culture than it was during the actual Old West. Designed as a smaller-caliber version of the 1886, it was ideal for .44 and under calibers. Over 1 million were made well into the 20th century, and although many post-date the traditional “Old West” period, early models are still a collecting favorite.

Model 1894 – The Smokeless Pioneer

With more than 5.5 million made over time, the Model 1894 is the most prolific Winchester lever-action ever. It was the first repeating rifle specifically built for the then-new smokeless powder cartridges. However, only the first 350,000 were made before 1900, these pre-1900 rifles are more valuable to most collectors. The 1894 is also often seen in old Westerns, whether they fit the time frame or not.

Model 1895 – The Last of the Century

The final 19th-century Winchester lever-action, the Model 1895, also came from Browning’s drawing board. This model departed from the traditional tube magazine design, instead using a box magazine to handle new, high-powered smokeless cartridges. It saw use in big game hunting and even on the battlefield during the Spanish American War and World War I. About 425,000 were produced.

Top 5 Takeaways for Collectors

The 1873 is king – Nicknamed The Gun That Won the West, it’s the most iconic and widely used model from the frontier era.

The 1866 “Yellow Boy” is an eye-catcher – Its brass frame and early production make it highly collectible.

John Browning’s influence began with the 1886 – Bigger calibers, better design, and enduring quality.

Hollywood helped the 1892 rise to fame – Though it came late to the game, it remains a favorite among fans and collectors.

Pre-1900 1894s are a sweet spot – With over 5 million made overall, the early production rifles stand out for their collectibility.

What’s Next?

Once you’ve familiarized yourself with the classic models, there’s still plenty to explore, such as learning how to identify different variations within each model. Then you can look into things like Winchester’s single-shot rifles, such as the 1885, or explore their lever-action shotguns, like the model 1887. Collecting Winchesters offers a fascinating glimpse into American history, and at Western Trading Post, we share your passion for preserving this legacy.

Interested in starting or expanding your collection of Winchester lever-action rifles? Find a trusted and reputable dealer who can help guide you toward authentic pieces and informed decisions.