winchester model 1894

[Plywood]

Hi all,

I have a model 1894 saddle ring carbine (30-30) I got from my grandpa. I have never shot it and I was wondering how can I tell if it's safe to shoot modern ammo through it? Its in really nice shape, but I dont know how old it is. The serial number is pretty high on it.

If it is safe to shoot, what ammo should I use? Will any commercial load be ok or do I need something specific?

[Oldbud]

Hi all,

I have a model 1894 saddle ring carbine (30-30) I got from my grandpa. I have never shot it and I was wondering how can I tell if it's safe to shoot modern ammo through it? Its in really nice shape, but I dont know how old it is. The serial number is pretty high on it.

If it is safe to shoot, what ammo should I use? Will any commercial load be ok or do I need something specific?

Here is a site you can enter the serial # to find the date..
just numbers, no commas!

http://oldguns.net/sn_php/windateslookup.php

Might not be fully accurate.

The older guns had numerous patent dates on the barrel, which the last date
is close to the gun's birth.


The 94 is a pretty strong gun. I have used off-the-shelf ammo, 150gr is frequently found.

[gadjeep]

The 94 was built around smokeless loads and really hasn't had to be beefed up through its manufacture. Personally, I wouldn't think twice about running some winchester factory loads through it.

[Plywood]

Thanks for the info guys! It looks like it was made in 1919!
I think its time to find some ammo.

[Plywood]

Here's pic of it. It's missing the saddle ring and most of the blue has worn off.

[tunder]

That's what I call a rifle with real character.

[five.five-six]

my dad has one in 25-35, I had never considered that it may be unsafe to shoot


IMO, UR GTG

[G-Man WC]

Nice lever ya got there. -g

[damndave]

wow 1919. probably worth some bucks. people say my 1977 is worth $300-400 already

[DougJ]

Here's pic of it. It's missing the saddle ring and most of the blue has worn off.

That Sir, is a lovely firearm! I've always wanted an old Winchester chambered in something like 44-40, but I would toss my Marlin 30-30 aside for that rifle!

[Plywood]

Thanks for the comments all, I cant wait to see how she shoots

[tpuig]

Absolutely! I'd take one like this over a new shiny one anyday.

That's what I call a rifle with real character.