![]() ![]() For more in-depth information identifying your Winchester 1866, read our previous article How to Identify a Winchester 1866. 44 rimfire cartridge, the rifles and muskets held 17 rounds carbines held 13. ![]() Because of its distinctive “brass” frame (technically a bronze alloy known as gunmetal or “red brass”), it was often called the “Yellow Boy” on the American frontier. It also eliminated the “Henry hop” where the shooter’s front hand would have to reposition as the magazine follower approached the receiver after every shot. The loading gate facilitated faster and easier reloading, while the hand guard prevented the shooter’s hand from getting burned on the metal magazine tube. A hand guard and loading gate patented by Winchester factory Superintendent Nelson King in 1866 were the principal alterations in creating what became the Model 1866. This model holds the distinction of being the first gun made under the Winchester name and is a direct descendant of the Henry rifle. ![]() 170,000 Years of Production: 1866 to 1898 Identifying Features: “Brass” frame flush sideplate 1/2 oval loading gate (early models may feature a rare flat loading gate) WINCHESTER MODEL 1866 LEVER-ACTION Exceptional Winchester 1866 Lever Action Rifle. It is important to note that the list is by no means exhaustive, but it’ll make sure you don’t confuse a Model 1876 with a Model 1894, or a Model 1873 with a Model 1886. What follows is an effort to help you identify all of the different models, how to differentiate between them visually, and provide you with some history of each model along the way. Their predecessors helped push firearm design and even served in the American Civil War. Early Winchester rifles helped shape the country and tame the frontier. ![]()
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