New Winchester Trapper owner (45lc)

[Dakota Widowmaker]

Well, I picked up a new Winchester Trapper for this next season. I wanted to go with something as a backup to my model 92.

The 92 is a .357 versus 45lc on the trapper, but, both handl similarly. (the trapper holds only 9 rounds, but, thats not a problem)

The 92 is VERY picky about cartridge length...I have had to go with snakebite 158gr boolits to get it cycling reliably.

Well, the 94....



From the factory, its VERY smooth...the action is about as nice as my slicked up 92.
The safety is on the tang, not one of the older style cross bolts.
The sights are nice and visible...something all Winchesters are known for.

The loading gate is not not overly stiff...which is a pleasant surprise.

I did swap out the lever for a big loop I have had for a while...(another reason why I got the model 94)
I like big loops as my hands feel more comfortable with them than the tiny factory levers. This supposedly slows my down, but, I don't notice it as an issue.

It does use the bump safety on the hammer...if I find non-bump safety parts at the right price, this is gonna get replaced.

The wood grain is very nice and has good coloring. (but, I am going to add a leather cover here soon enough)

The older wrangler and trappers were not this nice. Nor were the crossbolt safety's CAS friendly at the loading table.

If you are looking for a 45lc, 357, 44, main match rifle and don't want to blow over $450 on a rifle, this is as good as it gets.
(although, the puma 454 is beefier and just as nice, its made south of the boarder and I understand it has the crossbolt safety)

[Galloway]

Great review, I'd also like to get one to go with my 45 Blackhawk for general outdoor use. Both are a modern variation of a truly classic theme and seem to be made for eachother.