Original 1876

[pistol1911]

I have an original 1876,45/60.It is mechanicaly excellent,fair bore but was reblued many years ago.I am not sure if the stocks are original. I acquired this rifle in 1968.I need to know an approximate value for insurance purposes.Manufactured in 1882.

[john boy]

1911, number 1 - it's not original.  Numer 2, only you know what it looks like compared to NRA Antique grading.  So - start here ... http://www.merzantique.com/catalog_C0_5_1.php

[pistol1911]

Since the rifle is no longer original,I may have it restored.Who besides Turnbull can board members recommend?

[Grizzly Adams]

Since the rifle is no longer original,I may have it restored.Who besides Turnbull can board members recommend?

No personal experience with him, but Mike Hunter has a good reputation within the lever gun community.

http://www.hunterrestorations.com/

As far as a ball park value, I suggest you post pics of your 1876 so we can get a better idea of what you have.  In addition, I know that Buck Stinson  would appreciate adding your rifle to his data base.

[Buck Stinson]

Grizzly is right, I'd like to have the info and serial number of your original to add to my servey list.  if interested, let me know and I'll tell you what I need.  As far as restoration is concerned, you need to understand one thing.  There is a big difference between re-finishing a gun and restoration.  Any gunsmith can refinish a gun, but only a craftsman dedicated to his profession, can restore an antique gun to factory new condition.  For that reason, restoration work is VERY, VERY expensive, especially if you choose someone who has the talent and understands the type of guns he works on.  Turnbull does an exceptional job and in most cases, his restored guns look very much like they did when they were new.  Be prepared to spend anywhere from $4000 to $7000 including wood, for his work on your gun.  Will you're '76 increase in value as a collectors item?  Not a chance.  Collectors want and are willing to pay twice that for the real deal.  Full-on restoration of this magnitude only works from a monetary standpoint, if the gun is exceedingly rare like a 1 of 1000 or a factory engraved and plated presentation gun.  In cases such as these, restoration jobs can run well into the five figure catagory depending on what work is done.  I've not heard of the man that Grizzly mentioned, but I would certainly check him out.  There are many in this business, so do your homework and ask a lot of questions.  You might also dial in www.wyomingarmory.com in Cody and see what they can do.

Adios,
Buck

[pistol1911]

Buck tell me what you need and I will be happy to reply.I will post pictures in a few days.Fishing trip tomorrow. Jim

[Buck Stinson]

Here is a list of the info I am adding to my survey.

Serial number
Caliber
Rifle, carbine or musket
Barrel length
Round/octagon or half and half
Full length or half magazine
Rifle or shotgun butt
Any special order extras like sling swivels, set trigger, engraving, plating, etc.  It is now impossible to tell what the original finish was, because it has been reblued.  Because it has been refinished, that will also be indicated in the survey.  Have any other alterations been done to this gun that you are aware of?

I do not need your name or address, as it is not necessary to know who owns the guns as they are added.  This is just a survey to try to get some idea of how many original 1876 Winchesters are still in existence.  I appreciate your help.  Please send this info to my email  rick@oldwestreproductions.com

Adios,
Buck