Historical Background
From the earliest days of precision marksmanship to the leisurely enjoyment of a day at the range, certain firearms capture the imagination and hold a special place in the hearts of enthusiasts. Among these, the 1885 Winchester Low Wall stands tall, a testament to ingenious engineering and enduring design. Revered for its accuracy, elegance, and historical significance, this rifle continues to fascinate collectors, shooters, and those who appreciate the artistry of firearm design. This article delves into the history, features, and enduring legacy of the 1885 Winchester Low Wall, exploring its impact on the world of shooting and its enduring appeal across generations.
The Winchester Repeating Arms Company, a name synonymous with innovation and quality, played a pivotal role in shaping the American firearms landscape. Founded during the Civil War, the company initially produced Henry rifles, quickly evolving to become a leader in the manufacture of repeating firearms. Their designs were groundbreaking, incorporating lever-action mechanisms that revolutionized the speed and efficiency of loading and firing. The Winchester name became synonymous with the “Gun That Won the West,” and their rifles were embraced by soldiers, frontiersmen, and law enforcement alike. The company’s legacy built upon the success of their early designs, constantly refining and improving their offerings, paving the way for the introduction of a rifle destined to become a cornerstone of accuracy: the 1885 Winchester Low Wall.
The genius behind the 1885 Winchester Low Wall rests largely on the shoulders of John Browning, a prolific and visionary firearms designer. Browning possessed an unparalleled understanding of mechanics and a knack for creating robust and efficient designs. His collaboration with Winchester yielded some of the most iconic firearms of the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. Browning’s design for the 1885 action, which would become the foundation for both High Wall and Low Wall variants, marked a departure from the lever-action designs that had made Winchester famous. His goal was simple: to create a rifle action that was stronger, more accurate, and capable of handling a wider range of cartridges.
The 1885 rifle was actually manufactured in two primary configurations, distinguished by their receiver designs: the High Wall and the Low Wall. The High Wall featured a receiver with a pronounced tang extending upwards, providing a larger surface area for mounting sights and offering a strong and robust platform, ideal for powerful cartridges used in long-range shooting. This design, with its higher receiver, quickly gained favor among competitive shooters.
The 1885 Winchester Low Wall, the subject of our exploration, presented a more streamlined and elegant profile. With its lower receiver, the Low Wall was specifically designed for smaller cartridges, primarily those of rimfire and lighter centerfire calibers. Its design made it ideally suited for target shooting, small game hunting, and recreational shooting.
The production of the 1885 Winchester Low Wall commenced in the late eighteen eighties. The Low Wall remained in production for an extended period, experiencing subtle improvements and refinements over time. While the exact dates and variations vary, it represents a commitment to quality that has become synonymous with Winchester rifles. During the production run, several variations of the Low Wall were manufactured, each displaying unique characteristics and intended purposes, further contributing to the rifle’s appeal and collectibility. The continued availability of the rifle, even decades after its initial production, speaks volumes about its robustness, enduring design, and unwavering appeal.
Design and Features
The 1885 Winchester Low Wall boasts several distinctive design elements that have contributed to its longevity and reputation for excellence. The heart of the rifle is its falling-block action, a design known for its inherent strength and precision. This mechanism, a hallmark of Browning’s design, is simple yet ingenious. The action comprises a vertically sliding breechblock that is lowered to allow for the insertion of a cartridge and raised to seal the chamber for firing.
The falling-block action provided superior strength, allowing the Low Wall to handle a variety of cartridges with exceptional reliability. The design is remarkably robust and allows for a very tight lockup, contributing significantly to the rifle’s accuracy. Loading and unloading the 1885 Winchester Low Wall is a smooth and deliberate process, adding to the rifle’s charm. With a simple movement of the lever, the block is lowered, the spent casing is extracted, and the shooter can easily insert a new cartridge.
The barrels of the 1885 Winchester Low Wall varied in length and profile depending on the caliber and intended use. Some Low Walls were fitted with shorter barrels, which were more suitable for small game hunting and plinking. Longer barrels, on the other hand, were frequently favored for target shooting, offering improved accuracy at extended ranges. The choice of barrel was based on the need for optimal ballistics based on the ammunition intended to be fired.
The 1885 Winchester Low Wall was offered in a variety of calibers, reflecting its versatility and adaptability. Popular rimfire chamberings included the .22 Short, .22 Long Rifle, and .22 Winchester Rimfire. These cartridges made the Low Wall an excellent choice for recreational shooting and small game hunting. The availability of centerfire calibers such as .32-20 and .38-40 provided added power for hunting and target shooting at greater distances. These various chamberings contributed to the rifle’s flexibility, making it suitable for a range of purposes. The selection of the right cartridge could determine the performance of the rifle in various environments.
The stock and furniture of the 1885 Winchester Low Wall were often crafted from beautifully figured walnut, giving the rifle a classic and elegant appearance. The stock was often checkered to provide a secure grip. The metal components were carefully finished, often with bluing or other protective treatments that not only added to the aesthetic appeal but also protected the rifle from the elements. The overall fit and finish were a testament to Winchester’s commitment to quality craftsmanship, making the Low Wall a pleasure to handle and admire.
The sights on the 1885 Winchester Low Wall were typically of the iron type, including a front sight and a rear sight. The rear sight could be a simple open sight or an adjustable ladder sight, allowing the shooter to fine-tune the elevation for varying ranges. Many 1885 Winchester Low Wall rifles were also equipped with tang sights, which provided a longer sight radius and greater precision. In fact, this allowed for greater accuracy when targeting game. Many of these rifles could accept scopes as well.
Uses and Applications
The 1885 Winchester Low Wall, particularly in .22 caliber, found favor among target shooters. The action’s inherent accuracy, combined with the smooth trigger pull and adjustable sights, allowed for exceptional precision. Shooters could compete with remarkable accuracy in benchrest competitions and other forms of target shooting. The Low Wall was often used for precision work at distances.
Beyond its prowess on the target range, the 1885 Winchester Low Wall was well-suited for small game hunting. The accurate trajectory of the cartridges, coupled with the rifle’s comfortable handling, made it a reliable choice for taking small game such as rabbits, squirrels, and other similar quarry. The .22 Long Rifle caliber remains a popular choice for small game hunting even today, due to its accuracy and low recoil.
The 1885 Winchester Low Wall is also a joy to shoot for recreational purposes. Its smooth action and accuracy make it ideal for plinking and general target practice. The rifle’s historical significance adds a sense of connection to the past, making the shooting experience all the more enjoyable. The easy use of the rifle has cemented it as a classic.
Collectibility and Value
The collectibility of the 1885 Winchester Low Wall stems from several factors, including its historical importance, rarity, and overall condition. Rifles in excellent condition, particularly those with original finishes and markings, command a premium. The availability of rare chamberings or special features also enhances value. A Low Wall that has been meticulously maintained and shows minimal wear is highly sought after by collectors.
Authenticating an 1885 Winchester Low Wall is crucial for collectors. Serial numbers, markings, and other identifying features can help determine the rifle’s authenticity and originality. Comparing the rifle to known examples and consulting with experts are often necessary steps. A careful review of the rifle, based on its details, can also determine the value of the firearm.
The market for the 1885 Winchester Low Wall remains active, reflecting the enduring interest in these rifles. Prices vary depending on condition, rarity, and the caliber. It is a collectible firearm that is likely to hold its value. They are an investment piece for collectors. The historical context, its function, and its elegance have fueled the market.
Comparison with other firearms
The 1885 Winchester Low Wall is a rifle that transcends mere functionality, representing a pivotal moment in firearms design and craftsmanship. Its falling-block action set the stage for later developments, while its accuracy and elegant design continue to captivate shooters and collectors alike. The 1885 Winchester Low Wall stands as a monument to its time.
Conclusion
This rifle remains a timeless classic, a perfect blend of engineering and aesthetics. Its lasting appeal is a testament to the genius of John Browning, the craftsmanship of Winchester, and the enduring love for classic firearms that continues to thrive today. The 1885 Winchester Low Wall is a true icon of the shooting world, worthy of appreciation and admiration for generations to come.
