This owner’s manual is for the Winchester®  Model 1885 single-shot rifle only. Supplemental instructions for special edition Model 1885 rifles must be used in conjunction with the instructions found in this owner’s manual. If your supplemental instructions are missing, contact us immediately for a free copy or download one online at winchesterguns.com. 

Winchester Repeating Arms 
275 Winchester Avenue 
Morgan, Utah 84050-9333 
Phone: (800)-945-5237

Winchester is a registered trademark of Olin Corporation.

Important instructions for: Winchester Model 1885 Single-Shot Rifle.

If you have any questions or comments regarding your new firearm, please feel free to write or call us. 

Winchester Repeating Arms 
Customer Service Department (United States) 
275 Winchester Avenue 
Morgan, Utah 84050-9333 
Phone: (800)-945-5237

Please use the space below to record information about your new firearm. 

Model  __________________________________________________

Serial Number ____________________________________________

Purchased From __________________________________________

Date of Purchase __________________________________________

Specifications within this owner’s manual are correct at the time of printing and subject to change without notice.

In the late 1800s, competitive target shooting in America had the stature professional golf has today. Spectators would flock to huge matches held at places like Creedmoor, New York. John M. Browning’s Model 1885 was perfectly suited to the long-range accuracy shooting of the day. 

Hunters also embraced the Model 1885. Its accuracy, quality and variety of hunting chamberings meant more meat for the table and trophies in the den. 

Although other great single-shot rifles preceded it, the Model 1885 set a new standard; it was very close to perfection when it was first made and remains so today.

FAILURE TO FOLLOW ANY OF THE FOLLOWING WARNINGS COULD RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH.

As a firearm owner, you accept a set of demanding responsibilities. How seriously you take these responsibilities can be the difference between life and death. 

There is no excuse for careless or abusive handling of any firearm. At all times handle this firearm and all other firearms with intense respect for their power and potential danger. 

Please read and understand all of the cautions, warnings, notices, proper handling procedures, and instructions outlined in this owner’s manual before using your new firearm. 

1 - ALWAYS KEEP THE MUZZLE OF YOUR FIREARM POINTED IN A SAFE DIRECTION EVEN THOUGH YOU ARE CERTAIN IT IS UNLOADED. Never point any firearm at anything you do not intend to shoot. Be extremely alert and aware of all persons and property within the range of your ammunition.

2 - NEVER RELY TOTALLY ON YOUR FIREARM'S MECHANICAL “SAFETY” DEVICE. LIKE ANY MECHANICAL DEVICE, A "SAFETY" CAN SOMETIMES FAIL; IT CAN BE JARRED OR INADVERTENTLY MANIPULATED INTO AN UNSAFE CONDITION.

The word “safety” describes a firearm’s trigger block mechanism, sear block mechanism, hammer block mechanism or firing pin block mechanism. Mechanical “safeties” are designed to place your firearm in a safer status, and no guarantee can be made that the firearm will not fire even if the “safety” is in the on safe position. Mechanical “safeties” merely aid safe gun handling and are no excuse for pointing your firearm’s muzzle in an unsafe direction. See the “Operation of the Hammer” section below for instructions on the operation of this firearm’s hammer.

Remember, safe gun handling does not stop with your firearm’s mechanical “safety” devices, it starts there. Always treat this firearm with the respect due a loaded, ready-to-fire firearm.

Some firearms do not have a mechanical “safety.”  Many target firearms, lever-action firearms and pistols do not have manual “safety” mechanisms. Therefore it is critical to read and understand the owner’s manual for every firearm which explains the safe operation of the firearm. 

While it is a good idea to “test” your firearm’s mechanical “safety” periodically for proper function, never test the “safety” while your firearm is loaded or pointed in an unsafe direction.

3 - WHENEVER YOU HANDLE ANY FIREARM, OR HAND IT TO SOMEONE, ALWAYS OPEN THE ACTION IMMEDIATELY AND VISUALLY CHECK THE FIREARM'S CHAMBER TO MAKE CERTAIN THAT THE FIREARM IS COMPLETELY UNLOADED. Make certain the firearm does not inadvertently contain any ammunition. Remember, merely removing the magazine does not mean the chamber is unloaded. Always keep the chamber empty and the “safety” in the on safe position unless shooting is imminent. 

4 - ALWAYS WEAR EAR AND EYE PROTECTION WHEN SHOOTING. Unprotected, repeated exposure to gunfire can cause hearing damage. Wear hearing protection (shooting earplugs or muffs) to guard against such damage. 

Wear shooting glasses to protect your eyes from flying particles. Allow proper distance (eye relief) between a scope and your eye when firing a scoped pistol, rifle or shotgun. Do not use unorthodox shooting methods that could cause the rearward travel of the slide or bolt of a firearm to contact your eyes, face or hands. Always keep a safe distance between the muzzle of your firearm and any persons nearby, as muzzle blast, debris and ejecting cartridges could inflict serious injury. 

Always wear eye protection when disassembling and cleaning any firearm to prevent the possibility of springs, spring-tensioned parts, solvents or other  agents from contacting your eyes.

5 - KEEP ALL FIREARMS UNLOADED DURING TRANSPORT, EVEN WHEN STORED IN A HOLSTER, GUN CASE, SCABBARD, OR OTHER CONTAINER. 

6 - DROPPING OR JARRING A LOADED FIREARM CAN CAUSE ACCIDENTAL DISCHARGE. This can occur even with the “safety” in the on safe position.  Be extremely careful while hunting or during any shooting activity to avoid dropping any firearm.

7 - HUNTING FROM ELEVATED SURFACES SUCH AS TREESTANDS IS DANGEROUS. Doing so may increase the risk of mishandling a firearm. The following rules should always be observed by you and those you hunt with. Always make certain that the stand being used is safe and stable. Always make certain that your firearm is unloaded when it is being taken up and down from the stand. Always make certain that your firearm is not dropped from the stand, or dropped while it is being taken up or down from the stand. Remember, a loaded firearm may discharge when dropped, even with the “safety” in the on safe position.

8 - STORE YOUR FIREARM AND AMMUNITION SEPARATELY, WELL BEYOND THE REACH OF CHILDREN. Take prudent safeguards to ensure your firearm does not become available to untrained, inexperienced or unwelcome hands. Store all firearms in secure, locked cases or a gun safe. Keep your firearm unloaded when not in use.

9 - BEWARE BARREL OBSTRUCTIONS. Mud, snow and an infinite variety of other objects may inadvertently lodge in a barrel bore. It only takes a small obstruction to cause dangerously increased pressures that can damage your firearm and cause serious injury to yourself and others.

BEFORE CHECKING FOR A BARREL OBSTRUCTION, BE CERTAIN YOUR FIREARM IS COMPLETELY UNLOADED, THERE IS NOT A LIVE CARTRIDGE IN  THE CHAMBER AND THE “SAFETY” IS IN THE  ON SAFE POSITION.

After ensuring that the firearm is completely unloaded, open the breech or action and look through the barrel to be sure it is clear of obstructions. If an obstruction is seen, no matter how small it may be, clean the bore with a cleaning rod and patch as described in the Cleaning and Maintenance section of this owner’s manual.

10 - BE ALERT TO THE SIGNS OF AMMUNITION MALFUNCTION. IF YOU DETECT AN OFF SOUND OR LIGHT RECOIL WHEN A CARTRIDGE IS FIRED, DO NOT LOAD ANOTHER CARTRIDGE INTO THE CHAMBER.

If your firearm fails to fire, keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction for a minimum of 30 seconds. Rotate the ejection area of the firearm away from you, carefully open the action and remove the cartridge from the chamber. If the primer is indented, the defective cartridge should be disposed of in a way that cannot cause harm. If the primer is not indented, your firearm should be examined by a qualified gunsmith and the cause of the malfunction corrected before further use. Glance down the barrel to make sure that no obstructions remain in the barrel. Completely clear the barrel before loading and firing again. Failure to follow these instructions can cause extensive damage to your firearm and possible serious injury to yourself and others. 

11 - NEVER INSERT A CARTRIDGE OF THE INCORRECT CALIBER INTO ANY FIREARM. The caliber of your firearm is marked on the barrel. Store all cartridges of different calibers in completely separate and well-marked containers. Never store cartridges of mixed calibers in a common container or in your pockets. See the Ammunition Section for more information on the correct ammunition for your firearm.

12 - EXAMINE EVERY CARTRIDGE YOU PUT IN YOUR FIREARM.

We assume no responsibility for the use of unsafe or improper firearm and ammunition combinations or damage or injury caused by damaged ammunition. It is your responsibility to read and heed all warnings in this owner’s manual and on ammunition boxes. See the Ammunition Section for more information on the correct ammunition for your firearm.

13 - USE ONLY SAAMI APPROVED AMMUNITION.

The barrel and action of this firearm have been made with safety margins over the pressures established by the Sporting Arms and Ammunition Manufacturers’ Institute (SAAMI) for Service Cartridges. However, we assume no responsibility for incidents which occur through the use of cartridges of nonstandard dimension or those developing pressures in excess of SAAMI established standards.

14 - DISCHARGING FIREARMS IN POORLY VENTILATED AREAS, CLEANING FIREARMS OR HANDLING AMMUNITION MAY RESULT IN EXPOSURE TO LEAD AND OTHER SUBSTANCES KNOWN TO CAUSE BIRTH DEFECTS, REPRODUCTIVE HARM AND OTHER SERIOUS PHYSICAL INJURY. HAVE ADEQUATE VENTILATION AT ALL TIMES. WASH HANDS THOROUGHLY AFTER EXPOSURE.. 

15 - DO NOT SNAP THE FIRING PIN ON AN EMPTY CHAMBER, THE CHAMBER MAY NOT BE EMPTY!

Treat every firearm with the respect due a loaded firearm,  even though you are certain the firearm is unloaded.

16 - KEEP YOUR FINGERS AWAY FROM THE TRIGGER WHILE LOADING AND UNLOADING UNTIL SHOOTING IS IMMINENT.

17 - BE SURE OF YOUR TARGET AND BACKSTOP, PARTICULARLY DURING LOW LIGHT PERIODS. Know the range of your ammunition. Never shoot at water or hard objects.

18 - ALWAYS UNLOAD YOUR FIREARM'S CHAMBER BEFORE CROSSING A FENCE, CLIMBING A TREE, JUMPING A DITCH OR NEGOTIATING OTHER OBSTACLES. Never place your firearm on or against a fence, tree, car, or other similar object.

19 - BE DEFENSIVE AND ON GUARD AGAINST UNSAFE GUN HANDLING AROUND YOU AND OTHERS. Don’t be timid when it comes to firearm safety. If you observe other shooters violating any of these safety precautions, politely suggest safer handling practices.

20 - BE CERTAIN YOUR FIREARM IS UNLOADED BEFORE CLEANING. Special and extreme care should be taken to be sure your firearm is unloaded before disassembly, cleaning, and reassembly. 

Keep ammunition away from the cleaning location. Never test the mechanical function of any firearm with live ammunition.

21 - TEACH AND SUPERVISE FIREARMS SAFETY TO ALL MEMBERS OF YOUR FAMILY, ESPECIALLY TO CHILDREN AND NON-SHOOTERS. Closely supervise newcomers to the shooting sports. Encourage enrollment in hunting and shooting safety courses.

22 - NEVER DRINK ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES OR TAKE ANY TYPE OF DRUGS BEFORE OR DURING SHOOTING. Your vision, motor skills, and judgment could be dangerously impaired, making your gun handling unsafe to you and to others.

23 - READ AND HEED ALL WARNINGS IN THIS OWNER'S MANUAL, ON AMMUNITION BOXES, AND WITH ALL ACCESSORIES THAT YOU INSTALL ON YOUR FIREARM. It is your responsibility to secure the most up-to-date information on the safe handling procedures of your Winchester firearm. We assume no liability for incidents which occur when unsafe or improper firearm accessories or ammunition combinations are used.

24 - PRACTICE PERIODIC MAINTENANCE, AVOID UNAUTHORIZED SERVICING. Your firearm is a mechanical device which will not last forever, and as such, is subject to wear and requires periodic inspection, adjustment and service. Winchester firearms should be serviced by a Winchester Repeating Arms Authorized Repair Center or by our Service Facility in Arnold, Missouri. We assume no responsibility for injuries suffered or caused by unauthorized servicing, alterations or modifications of Winchester firearms.

25 - DO NOT, UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES, ALTER THE TRIGGER, "SAFETY" OR OTHER PARTS OF THE FIRING MECHANISM OF THIS OR ANY OTHER FIREARM EXCEPT AS OTHERWISE DESCRIBED IN THIS MANUAL. 

WE RESERVE THE RIGHT TO REFUSE SERVICE ON FIREARMS THAT HAVE BEEN ALTERED, ADDED TO OR SUBSTANTIALLY CHANGED. Removal of metal from the barrel, or modifications of the firing mechanism and/or operating parts, may lead to a refusal of service on such firearms. You will be charged for parts and labor to return the firearm to original specifications prior to servicing your firearm.

With respect to AFTERMARKET PARTS OR COMPONENTS (including, for example, aftermarket trigger systems, barrels, muzzle brakes, suppressors, magazines, etc.), USE AT YOUR OWN RISK. Winchester firearms are designed and engineered to meet stringent safety standards. Winchester Repeating Arms is not responsible for personal injuries or property damage caused by alterations to a firearm. This includes the incorporation of aftermarket parts or components that may or may not satisfy Sporting Arms and Ammunition Manufacturers’ Institute (SAAMI) standards (for example, an aftermarket trigger system may not satisfy SAAMI minimum trigger pull standards, etc.) or may create other dangerous conditions. These conditions may or may not be apparent to the user (for example, installing an aftermarket barrel may have the effect of altering critical firearm dimensions, including headspace, and may create an unsafe firing condition, etc.). Aftermarket parts or components that do not satisfy SAAMI standards, or that could create other dangerous conditions, should not be used.

FAILURE TO FOLLOW THIS WARNING COULD RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH, AS WELL AS CAUSE DAMAGE TO YOUR FIREARM.

GENERAL DESCRIPTION AND OPERATION

The Model 1885 rifle is a modern version of the rifle that put the name John M. Browning on the map as a gun designer. It was his first design, and led to a long-term relationship with Winchester® brand firearms. With a few minor exceptions, your Model 1885 rifle is virtually identical to the original. 

With a cartridge in the chamber and the hammer at full-cock, the rifle will fire a single cartridge when the trigger is pulled. Cycling the lever downward opens the breech and drops the hammer out of the way. This leaves easy access to the chamber area for inserting a cartridge. When the lever is returned upward the breech closes and the hammer moves upward again, but now the hammer is in the cocked position.

After firing, the lever can be rotated downward which lowers the breech block and the hammer, and at the same time extracts or ejects, (depending on the model) the fired cartridge. A cartridge may now be placed in the chamber. The hammer remains in the full-cock position as the lever is closed, readying the rifle to fire another cartridge. 

Black powder models of the Model 1885 are also available. Specific instructions and specifications for the black powder models may be included with those particular rifles. Additional cleaning and maintenance procedures are included in this owner’s manual.

This owner’s manual covers the features of Model 1885 rifles produced after the year 2002. If you have an older Model 1885 for which you require an owner’s manual, please contact our Customer Service Department at (800) 945-5237.

NOTICE: DO NOT DRY FIRE MODEL 1885 RIMFIRE RIFLE MODELS. DRY FIRING MAY DAMAGE THE FIREARM COMPONENTS, POSSIBLY RENDERING THE FIREARM INOPERABLE.

NOMENCLATURE

Descriptions in this owner’s manual generally refer to the firearm in the horizontal, normal firing position. For example, the muzzle is forward or front; the buttstock is rearward or rear; the trigger is downward or underneath; the sights are upward or on top. 

Throughout this owner’s manual the action refers to the mechanism of this rifle which loads and secures the cartridge in the chamber. 

Figure 1 covers the general features and benefits of the Model 1885 design. Refer to Figures 2, 3 and 4 for general part descriptions regarding your new rifle. You must become familiar with all part names listed before proceeding with the rest of the instructions in this owner’s manual.

SERIAL NUMBER

The serial number of your Model 1885 can be found on the lower right side of the receiver. Record the serial number at the front of this owner’s manual for future reference.

WARNING: WEAR EYE PROTECTION WHEN ASSEMBLING AND DISASSEMBLING YOUR RIFLE TO PREVENT SPRINGS, SPRING-LOADED PARTS, SOLVENTS OR OTHER AGENTS FROM CONTACTING YOUR EYES, RESULTING IN INJURY.

Various exposed metal parts of your new firearm have been coated at the factory with a rust preventative compound. Before firing your rifle, clean the anti-rust compound from the inside of the barrel and action and chamber areas. A fine, light gun oil is ideal for removing this compound and for giving your new firearm its first lubrication. However, any quality firearm oil may be used. Clean the barrel using a cleaning rod and patch as explained under the “Cleaning and Maintenance Suggestions” section below. If your rifle is to be stored, it is acceptable to leave the rust preventative compound on the rifle and keep it in its original packaging.

WARNING: THE MODEL 1885 RIFLE DOES NOT HAVE A MANUAL “SAFETY.” ALWAYS KEEP THE HAMMER IN THE HALF-COCK POSITION UNLESS SHOOTING IS IMMINENT. ALWAYS KEEP THE MUZZLE POINTED  IN A SAFE DIRECTION. FAILURE TO FOLLOW  THESE WARNINGS COULD RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH. 

Like many lever-action rifles with exposed hammers, the Model 1885 does not have a separate manual safety. The exposed hammer is an excellent indicator of the status of the rifle. The hammer has three positions: Full-cock, half-cock, and dropped or fired.

FULL-COCK POSITION

The hammer is all the way to the rear (Figure 5). At this point, any pull on the trigger will cause the hammer to fall, firing the rifle. The hammer can be placed in this position in either of two ways. First, every time the lever is cycled, the lever linkage will leave the hammer in the full-cock position. The hammer may also be placed at full-cock by manually moving it rearward with the thumb until it engages the full-cock notch. Be sure to keep your finger off the trigger while cocking the hammer.

WARNING: ALWAYS KEEP THE HAMMER IN THE HALF-COCK POSITION UNLESS FIRING IS IMMINENT. ALWAYS KEEP THE MUZZLE POINTED IN A SAFE DIRECTION. FAILURE TO FOLLOW THESE WARNINGS COULD RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH. 

HALF-COCK POSITION

The half-cock notch on the hammer is a safety feature designed to protect against accidental discharge of the rifle, in the event the hammer slips from the thumb while the rifle is being cocked (Figure 6). 

The half-cock hammer position should be used for handling and storage — any time that the rifle is not actually being fired. It is important to note that the Model 1885 has an inertial sear which prevents the hammer from moving to the dropped position unless the trigger is pulled with the hammer in the fully-cocked position.

DROPPED OR FIRED POSITION

The dropped-hammer position is the position of the hammer after a cartridge is fired (Figure 7). The dropped position should not be used as a safety position of the hammer. Whenever the hammer has fallen to the dropped position (after firing, for example) it should be immediately moved to the half-cock position.

WARNING: WHEN LOWERING THE HAMMER TO THE HALF-COCK POSITION, ALWAYS KEEP THE MUZZLE POINTED IN  A SAFE DIRECTION. ALWAYS KEEP THE HAMMER IN THE HALF-COCK POSITION. FAILURE TO FOLLOW  THESE WARNINGS COULD RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH. 

LOWERING THE HAMMER TO HALF-COCK

A wise practice to follow is to place your thumb extended over the hammer with the point of your thumb just over the “V” between the hammer and the firing pin so that your thumb can act as a cushion against accidental hammer fall, and at the same time, ease the hammer into the half-cock notch (Figure 8, page 18). A little practice with an empty rifle will enable you to become adept at using your thumb in this manner. 

1. Pull the hammer slightly rearward with your thumb still controlling the hammer.
2. Squeeze the trigger and allow the hammer to slowly begin forward travel under the control of your thumb.
3. When the hammer has passed the full-cock position, immediately remove your finger from the trigger.
4. Carefully lower the hammer until it catches on the half-cock position.

It is possible to move the hammer from the dropped to the half-cock position by partially opening the lever. 

LEVER OPEN POSITION

Whenever possible, the lever should be lowered down and fully forward to open the action (Figure 9). This is the safest status for your rifle. When shooting at ranges, and at many other times, the action should be open unless shooting is imminent.

WARNING: DISCHARGING FIREARMS IN POORLY VENTILATED AREAS, CLEANING FIREARMS OR HANDLING AMMUNITION MAY RESULT IN EXPOSURE TO LEAD AND OTHER SUBSTANCES KNOWN TO CAUSE BIRTH DEFECTS, REPRODUCTIVE HARM AND OTHER SERIOUS PHYSICAL INJURY. HAVE ADEQUATE VENTILATION AT ALL TIMES. WASH HANDS THOROUGHLY AFTER EXPOSURE.

DO NOT USE AMMUNITION OTHER THAN WHAT IS INSCRIBED ON THE BARREL. EXAMINE EVERY CARTRIDGE YOU PUT IN YOUR FIREARM.

FAILURE TO FOLLOW THESE WARNINGS MAY RESULT IN INJURY TO YOURSELF OR OTHERS, OR CAUSE DAMAGE TO YOUR FIREARM.

The Model 1885 is designed to shoot modern factory cartridges only. However, special instructions for Model 1885 Black Powder models are found in the "Instructions for Black Powder Models" section of this owner’s manual. The caliber of your Model 1885 is inscribed on the top of the barrel, just in front of the receiver. Make sure you use only the exact ammunition/caliber as listed on the barrel. 

The barrel and action of this firearm have been made with safety margins over the pressures established by the Sporting Arms and Ammunition Manufacturers’ Institute (SAAMI) for Service Cartridges. However, we assume no responsibility for incidents which occur through the use of cartridges of nonstandard dimension or those developing pressures in excess of SAAMI established standards.

WARNING: WHEN LOADING YOUR RIFLE ALWAYS KEEP THE MUZZLE POINTED IN A SAFE DIRECTION. KEEP YOUR FINGERS AWAY FROM THE TRIGGER. FAILURE TO FOLLOW THESE WARNINGS COULD RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH.

DO NOT CARRY YOUR RIFLE WITH A CARTRIDGE IN THE CHAMBER TO AVOID ACCIDENTAL DISCHARGE. WHEN FIRING IS NO LONGER IMMINENT UNLOAD  THE CHAMBER AND MAKE SURE THE HAMMER IS  IN THE HALF-COCK POSITION. FAILURE TO FOLLOW THESE WARNINGS COULD RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH.

1. Swing the lever down and fully forward to lower the breech block (Figure 9).

2. Manually insert a cartridge into the chamber (Figure 10). The cartridge should be inserted fully into the chamber to prevent interference with the breech block as it closes. The top front surface of the breech block is channeled to help load a cartridge protruding slightly from the chamber, but it is best to develop a habit of pushing the cartridge all the way into the chamber.

3. Close the lever. This locks the action and leaves the hammer in the full-cock, ready-to-fire position.

WARNING: THE RIFLE IS NOW READY TO FIRE BY SIMPLY PULLING THE TRIGGER. 

4. After loading the rifle, when shooting is not imminent, the correct position of the hammer is at half-cock, as pictured in Figure 6 (see the “Operation of Hammer” section for the correct procedure). When the hammer is in the half-cock position, you need only thumb the hammer back to the full-cock position to prepare the rifle for firing.

WARNING: NEVER CHAMBER A CARTRIDGE OR COCK THE HAMMER UNLESS SHOOTING IS IMMINENT. ALWAYS KEEP THE MUZZLE POINTED IN A SAFE DIRECTION. FAILURE TO FOLLOW THESE WARNINGS COULD RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH.

Begin with a loaded cartridge in the chamber, the hammer in the half-cock position and your finger off the trigger:

1. Firmly position your thumb on the hammer and draw the hammer back to the full-cock position (Figure 11). Your rifle is now ready to fire.
2. Firmly shoulder your gun, take aim and when on target pull the trigger smoothly, without jerking.

RELOADING

1. Swing the finger lever fully down, extracting or ejecting the fired cartridge case from the chamber on the ejector models. When the case is ejected, it will strike the case deflector.
2. Insert another cartridge completely into the chamber.
3. Close the action by returning the lever upward. The closing of the action will leave the hammer in the fully-cocked, ready-to-fire position.
4. When firing is completed or when shooting is no longer imminent, immediately return the hammer to the half-cock position.

WARNING: AFTER FIRING, OR WHEN SHOOTING IS NO LONGER IMMINENT, IMMEDIATELY MOVE THE HAMMER TO THE HALF-COCK POSITION. FAILURE TO FOLLOW THIS WARNING COULD RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH.

WARNING: WHEN UNLOADING YOUR RIFLE ALWAYS KEEP THE  MUZZLE POINTED IN A SAFE DIRECTION AND YOUR FINGERS AWAY FROM THE TRIGGER. 

ALWAYS INSPECT THE CHAMBER AND BARREL CAREFULLY AFTER UNLOADING TO BE SURE ALL LIVE CARTRIDGES ARE CLEARED FROM THE FIREARM. FAILURE TO FOLLOW THESE WARNINGS COULD RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH.

1. Swing the finger lever fully down. As the lever swings forward the breech block and the hammer move down into the receiver.
2. At the end of the lever cycle, the cartridge is extracted or ejected, depending on the model of your rifle. If your Model 1885 is an extractor model, carefully remove the empty cartridge.

NOTICE: DO NOT DRY FIRE MODEL 1885 RIMFIRE RIFLE MODELS. DRY FIRING MAY DAMAGE THE FIREARM COMPONENTS, POSSIBLY RENDERING THE  FIREARM INOPERABLE.

WARNING: BEFORE ADJUSTING THE SIGHTS, OPEN THE ACTION AND MAKE CERTAIN YOUR RIFLE IS COMPLETELY UNLOADED. KEEP THE MUZZLE POINTED IN A SAFE DIRECTION. FAILURE TO FOLLOW THESE WARNINGS COULD RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH.

Most Model 1885 rifles are fitted with open sights. The style and adjustment system may vary. 

The proper procedure is to shoot a group with the sights set as they come from the factory (intermediate position on both elevation and windage), and then make incremental adjustments to move the sight blade and elevator to position the group on your target. The procedures below are for the type of open sights found on current Model 1885 rifles.

Before making any sight adjustments, make sure your rifle is completely unloaded and the action is open. 

The correct sight picture is with the front sight bead resting in the U-shaped notch in the sight blade. The bead itself should rest directly under the point of impact (Figure 12). 

For example, if you were shooting a conventional smallbore target, the round, black bull’s-eye would appear to rest on top of the front bead. 

UP OR DOWN ELEVATION ADJUSTMENTS (BARREL SIGHT)

Adjusting elevation on your Model 1885 requires you to lift up the rear sight blade on your rifle’s rear sight with your fingers and move the notched elevator either forward or backward (Figure 13). To raise point of impact, use your fingers to lift up on the blade and slide the elevator rearward. Adjusting the sight to make your gun shoot lower is just the opposite — move the elevator forward. Remember: 

• Move the rear sight blade up to shoot higher.
• Move the rear sight blade down to shoot lower.

RIGHT OR LEFT WINDAGE ADJUSTMENTS (BARREL SIGHT)

On most Model 1885 sights, the entire rear sight is dovetailed in the barrel. To adjust for windage, gently move the rear sight to the right or left by tapping the rear sight body at the dovetail using a wood or fiber dowel or a hammer that will not mar the sight (Figure 14). Front and rear sight dovetails should be snug. 

If you tap the rear sight to the right your gun will shoot more to the right. Moving the rear sight to the left is just as easily done. 

UP OR DOWN ELEVATION ADJUSTMENTS (BARREL SIGHT)

Adjusting elevation on your Model 1885 requires you to lift up the rear sight blade on your rifle’s rear sight with your fingers and move the notched elevator either forward or backward (Figure 13). To raise point of impact, use your fingers to lift up on the blade and slide the elevator rearward. Adjusting the sight to make your gun shoot lower is just the opposite — move the elevator forward. Remember: 

• Move the rear sight blade up to shoot higher.
• Move the rear sight blade down to shoot lower.

RIGHT OR LEFT WINDAGE ADJUSTMENTS (BARREL SIGHT)

On most Model 1885 sights, the entire rear sight is dovetailed in the barrel. To adjust for windage, gently move the rear sight to the right or left by tapping the rear sight body at the dovetail using a wood or fiber dowel or a hammer that will not mar the sight (Figure 14). Front and rear sight dovetails should be snug. 

If you tap the rear sight to the right your gun will shoot more to the right. Moving the rear sight to the left is just as easily done. 

Note how much you adjust the sight as you sight-in your Model 1885. Remember: 

• Move the rear sight to the right to shoot farther to the right on the target.
• Move the rear sight to the left to shoot farther to the left on the target.

IMPORTANT: Take care not to mar the finish or bend sight components when adjustments are made.

The front sight is also held in a dovetail on the barrel. It is possible to make windage adjustments by tapping it to one side or the other, just like the rear sight. Remember, when adjusting the front sight you get the opposite results: Move the front sight to the right and you shoot more to the left, move the front sight to the left and you’ll shoot more to the right.

All sight adjustments are a matter of trial and error. Remember, it is usually necessary to reset your sights when you change type or even brand of ammunition.

REAR TANG PEEP SIGHT ADJUSTMENT

The tang of the Model 1885 is drilled and tapped to accept a peep sight. Certain Model 1885 rifles include a rear-tang peep sight. This sight is highly accurate and adjustable for windage and elevation. A variety of sights are also available from major sight manufacturers.

To use, first lift the sight into the upright position. Turn the knurled knob on the elevation adjustment clockwise to raise the sight, or shoot higher (Figure 15). Turn counterclockwise to lower the sight or to shoot lower.

Turn the windage knob located on the right side of the sight, away from you or clockwise to adjust the point of impact to the right. Turn the knob towards you or counterclockwise to adjust the point of impact to the left.

Each click on both height and windage is equal to ½ minute of angle, moving the point of bullet impact ½" at 100 yards.

Some Model 1885 rifles are drilled and tapped for scope mounts. See your Winchester firearms dealer to purchase the scope mount base and rings appropriate for your Model 1885. Follow the manufacturers’ instructions included with optics, bases and rings when installing them on your Model 1885. 

Use of a hammer extension is not recommended with the Model 1885. During cycling, the hammer travels with the breech downward into the receiver. A hammer extension will not allow the action to cycle completely.

Some Model 1885 rifles feature an ejector system that ejects empty cases from the chamber when the lever is cycled fully downward. As a case is ejected, it strikes the case deflector. 

The case deflector is found at the back of the receiver behind the hammer. The case deflector can be adjusted to deflect the case in different directions depending on your needs. 

With a screwdriver, rotate the deflector to one of the three click-stop positions. The deflector may be positioned in a diagonal position to the left or right (Figure 16) to deflect the case to the left or right respectively, or positioned straight to catch the cartridge instead of ejecting it when the finger lever is swung down (Figure 17). To avoid ejecting the case straight back, always keep the deflector in the right, left or catch position. 

WARNING: NEVER TAMPER WITH THE TRIGGER PULL ADJUSTMENT MECHANISM IN ORDER TO ALTER  THE MINIMUM SETTING OF THIS OR ANY OTHER FIREARM’S TRIGGER PULL. NEVER ATTEMPT IN  ANY WAY TO MODIFY OR ALTER SEAR ENGAGEMENT OR ANY OTHER TRIGGER ASSEMBLY COMPONENT. FAILURE TO FOLLOW THESE WARNINGS COULD RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH.

The trigger pull weight of the Model 1885 is adjusted at the factory. The trigger pull weight can be adjusted in a range of approximately 3½ pounds to over five pounds by using a small screwdriver (Figure 18). Clockwise rotation decreases the pull weight to a minimum of approximately 3½ pounds. Counterclockwise rotation increases the trigger pull to a maximum of approximately 5 pounds. If the trigger pull force adjustment is increased too far, the trigger system becomes inoperative. Should this happen, merely back off the adjustment until the mechanism is again operative. 

WARNING: BEFORE PERFORMING CLEANING PROCEDURES, OPEN THE ACTION AND MAKE CERTAIN YOUR RIFLE IS COMPLETELY UNLOADED. KEEP THE MUZZLE POINTED IN A SAFE DIRECTION. FAILURE TO FOLLOW THESE WARNINGS COULD RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH.

WEAR EYE PROTECTION WHEN DISASSEMBLING AND CLEANING YOUR RIFLE TO PREVENT SPRINGS, SPRING-LOADED PARTS, SOLVENTS OR OTHER AGENTS FROM CONTACTING YOUR EYES, RESULTING IN INJURY.

KEEP ALL AMMUNITION AWAY FROM THE CLEANING AREA. NEVER TEST THE MECHANICAL FUNCTION OF YOUR RIFLE WITH LIVE AMMUNITION. FAILURE TO FOLLOW THESE WARNINGS COULD RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH.

NOTICE: SOME CLEANING SOLVENTS, LUBRICANTS AND OTHER STRONG CHEMICALS SUCH AS THOSE  FOUND IN DEET-CONTAINING INSECT REPELLENTS, SUNSCREENS, ETC. MAY DAMAGE THE FINISHES  OF YOUR FIREARM. USE CARE TO PREVENT CHEMICALS FROM MAKING CONTACT WITH FINISHES WHEN CLEANING THE BORE AND  ACTION OF YOUR FIREARM.

CLEANING PROCEDURES

Your rifle will function better and more reliably over a longer period of time if it is properly maintained and kept clean. You should clean your Model 1885 after every day of shooting and more often if it becomes excessively dirty. 

A minimum cleaning includes wiping down the action and oiling key parts. Most regular maintenance will also include cleaning the barrel. If you encounter a function problem (tight action when working the finger lever), be sure to give your gun a thorough cleaning to see if it solves the problem before seeking the services of our service facility or a qualified gunsmith.

1. Open the action by completely lowering the finger lever.

2. Inspect the chamber and bore for powder fouling. A normal amount of powder residue can be expected and is not serious. It can usually be removed with a patch saturated with nitro solvent. Clean the bore using an appropriate rifle cleaning rod with a slotted tip or jag and a patch of the correct caliber to provide a snug fit in the bore. Insert the rod and patch into the barrel at the breech end and run it back and forth several times. Care should be exercised to ensure that the cleaning rod does not strike the crown of the muzzle, as damage to this area can affect the accuracy of your rifle. A muzzle protector can be purchased separately from your local firearms dealer to help protect the muzzle crown while cleaning the barrel of your rifle. If, or when, fouling should become heavy, it can be removed with a brass bore brush. Dip or spray the brush with nitro solvent and scrub the chamber and bore until the fouling is removed. To prevent brass bristles from breaking off, the brush should be pushed completely through the barrel before being withdrawn.

To maintain the utmost accuracy of your rifle it is recommended you clean the bore with a copper solvent. Modern bullet jackets are made mainly of copper. Residues from copper bullet jackets stick to the barrel and require more frequent cleaning. Magnum calibers will require more frequent inspection and cleaning. Swab the bore of your rifle with a good copper solvent using the manufacturer’s recommended procedure.

3. After fouling has been removed, wipe the bore dry. Then pass a lightly oiled patch through the barrel for preservation. A fine, light gun oil is recommended.

4. Inspect the barrel and chamber. Make certain that no patches have been inadvertently left in them. Remove any that remain.

5. The interior of the receiver and the breech block should periodically be wiped with a clean rag. Any dried oil in these areas should be removed. Follow this cleaning by applying a very light film of oil on the affected parts.

6. Lightly oil your firearm at the points described under the “Initial Cleaning and Oiling” section. Ordinary good judgment will, of course, indicate that the metal of the gun should receive a light film of oil any time the rifle has been exposed to weather or handling. Remember, the polished, finely fitted surfaces of the receiver and action mechanisms must always have a thin film of oil. Make sure that the surfaces of the breech block, lever components and feed mechanism parts are especially clean and lightly oiled with a high quality gun oil.

NOTICE: DO NOT POUR LARGE QUANTITIES OF OIL INTO  THE RECEIVER OR OTHER PARTS. IT CAN DRAIN DOWN TO THE WOOD AND SOFTEN IT, CAUSING PERMANENT DAMAGE AND LOOSENING OF  THE STOCK.

7. Wipe all exposed metal surfaces of the receiver, forearm and barrel with a clean rag. Finger marks should be removed because they provide a place where moisture can accumulate. Any dried oil in the receiver area should also be removed.

8. The wood surfaces of your rifle can also be wiped lightly with fine oil, or you can apply a quality wood or furniture polish to the stock and forearm. Using one of these methods (not both), will enhance the beauty and durability of your rifle.

WARNING: BEFORE SERVICING THE FIRING PIN, OPEN THE ACTION AND MAKE CERTAIN YOUR RIFLE IS COMPLETELY UNLOADED. KEEP THE MUZZLE POINTED IN A SAFE DIRECTION. FAILURE TO FOLLOW THESE WARNINGS COULD RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH.

WEAR EYE PROTECTION WHEN DISASSEMBLING AND CLEANING YOUR RIFLE TO PREVENT SPRINGS, SPRING-LOADED PARTS, SOLVENTS OR OTHER AGENTS FROM CONTACTING YOUR EYES, RESULTING IN INJURY.

KEEP ALL AMMUNITION AWAY FROM THE CLEANING AREA. NEVER TEST THE MECHANICAL FUNCTION OF YOUR RIFLE WITH LIVE AMMUNITION. FAILURE TO FOLLOW THESE WARNINGS COULD RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH.

FIRING PIN SERVICE (RIMFIRE MODELS ONLY)

The following instructions are for Model 1885 Low Wall rimfire models only. After extensive shooting (about 1,000 rounds) it is important to clean the firing pin system.

1. Close the action.

2. Cock the hammer to full-cock.

3. Carefully loosen the firing pin retaining screw using a small, gunsmithing-type screwdriver (Figure 19).

4. Remove the firing pin retaining screw by lifting it up, out of the hole in the top of the breech block. The firing pin is under spring force and may be lost if not carefully retained during removal. Capture the firing pin and spring as they are freed from the firing pin recess in the breech block.

5. Using a cotton swab with solvent, clean the interior of the firing pin recess in the breech block. Aerosol cleaners are helpful in removing deposits. Clean the firing pin and spring with solvent. Wipe away excess oil after cleaning.

6. Reassemble the firing pin spring on the firing pin. Make sure the tip of the firing pin is vertical and that the machined retaining slot in the side of the firing pin is positioned on the left side (Figure 20).

7. Insert the firing pin and spring into the recess in the breech block and hold fully in. At the same time, insert the firing pin retaining screw down into its hole in the top of the breech block (Figure 21).

8. Carefully tighten the retaining screw.

WARNING: PLEASE READ THE FOLLOWING SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS THAT PERTAIN TO BLACK POWDER VERSIONS OF THE MODEL 1885 BEFORE USING  YOUR RIFLE. 

CARTRIDGES LOADED WITH BLACK POWDER, PYRODEX® OR OTHER BLACK POWDER SUBSTITUTES MUST BE PERFORMED CAREFULLY. FOLLOW ALL INSTRUCTIONS IN THIS OWNER’S MANUAL AND CURRENT RELOADING MANUALS.

BEFORE ATTEMPTING TO LOAD AND SHOOT BLACK POWDER LOADS IN YOUR RIFLE, IT IS ESSENTIAL THAT YOU ARE FAMILIAR WITH THE TECHNICAL ASPECTS OF BLACK POWDER CARTRIDGE RELOADING. MANUALS ARE AVAILABLE FROM COMPANIES THAT PRODUCE BLACK POWDER RELOADING COMPONENTS AND OTHER SOURCES.

FAILURE TO LOAD BLACK POWDER CARTRIDGES CORRECTLY AND IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE INSTRUCTIONS FOUND IN CURRENT MANUALS CAN RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH.

NOTICE: FAILURE TO LOAD BLACK POWDER CARTRIDGES CORRECTLY AND IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE INSTRUCTIONS FOUND IN CURRENT MANUALS COULD RESULT IN DAMAGE TO YOUR FIREARM.

Special Model 1885 black powder rifles are designed to fire cartridges that contain black powder, Pyrodex® or other substitute black powder propellents. 

Shooting cartridges loaded with black powder, Pyrodex or other substitute black powder propellents require additional care, and attention must be paid regarding the cleaning and care of your rifle. 

THE RESPONSIBILITY FOR SAFETY IS YOURS

Successfully loading black powder cartridges involves many different technical skills, a high degree of practical knowledge and serious attention to detail. Before attempting to reload cartridges for your  

Model 1885 you must understand case preparation, bullet casting and/or preparation bullet lubrication, propellant load specifications, the powder-to-case loading procedures, cartridge preparation/maintenance, primers, case resizing, trimming and reforming procedures, safe powder storage and many other procedures common only to black powder cartridge reloading. Misuse or neglect of any aspect of shooting your Model 1885 can be dangerous and cause serious injury or death and could damage your rifle.

OBTAIN EXPERT INSTRUCTION

If you are unfamiliar with handloading black powder or Pyrodex® cartridge rifles you must first seek expert instruction. Qualified organizations like local gun clubs, the National Rifle Association and Hunter Safety Programs are resources for obtaining information from qualified instructors with expertise in black powder cartridge reloading. Ask your Winchester Repeating Arms dealer for help in locating the appropriate experts and organizations in your area.

Refer to the instructions and specifications that are provided with propellants, bullet molds, bullet lubricants, reloading dies, empty cartridges and other components.

KNOW POWDER TYPES

Black powder, Pyrodex® or other black powder substitutes are special types of propellants. Black powder is not defined by the color of the powder itself. No smokeless powder, even those that appear black in color, should be loaded in place of black powder, Pyrodex® or black powder substitutes. Some smokeless powders are black in color making proper identification extremely important. Be sure you know the type and granulation of powder you are loading. When loading cartridges for your rifle never use any powder unless you have seen it poured from the original manufacturer’s container and it is clearly identified on the label. Use black powder, Pyrodex® or black powder substitute propellants of the type and granulation specified in reliable published reloading information only.

FILL CASES COMPLETELY

When loading black powder cartridges consistency is important. Black powder cartridges perform best when the case is completely full or the powder is slightly compressed and there is no airspace between the bullet and the powder. 

WARNING: IF A CASE IS NOT FILLED WITH POWDER TO THE BASE OF THE BULLET, THE BULLET CAN ACT AS A BARREL OBSTRUCTION WHICH CAN INCREASE PRESSURE AND CAUSE A RINGED BARREL OR CHAMBER OR CAUSE THE BARREL TO BURST CAUSING SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH, AND CAUSE DAMAGE TO YOUR RIFLE. 

DUPLEX LOADS CAN BE DANGEROUS

A cartridge containing both smokeless and black powder is referred to as a duplex load. If incorrectly loaded, a duplex load may cause excessive pressures and could cause serious injury or death and could damage your rifle. Be certain to correctly follow all procedures when loading duplex loads and adhere to the NRA guideline of never exceeding 20% smokeless powder by weight as a priming charge or fouling reducer. Consult only reliable, up-to-date reloading manuals before loading duplex loads.

WARNING: FAILURE TO MAINTAIN YOUR RIFLE CORRECTLY CAN CAUSE DAMAGE AND AFFECT PERFORMANCE, ESPECIALLY ACCURACY. IT IS ESSENTIAL THAT YOUR RIFLE IS PROPERLY CLEANED AND MAINTAINED TO HELP PREVENT EXCESSIVE CHAMBER PRESSURES.

BEFORE PERFORMING CLEANING PROCEDURES, OPEN THE ACTION AND MAKE CERTAIN YOUR RIFLE IS COMPLETELY UNLOADED. KEEP THE MUZZLE POINTED IN A SAFE DIRECTION. FAILURE TO FOLLOW THESE WARNINGS COULD RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH.

WEAR EYE PROTECTION WHEN DISASSEMBLING AND CLEANING YOUR RIFLE TO PREVENT SPRINGS, SPRING-LOADED PARTS, SOLVENTS OR OTHER AGENTS FROM CONTACTING YOUR EYES, RESULTING IN INJURY.

KEEP ALL AMMUNITION AWAY FROM THE CLEANING AREA. NEVER TEST THE MECHANICAL FUNCTION OF YOUR RIFLE WITH LIVE AMMUNITION. FAILURE TO FOLLOW THESE WARNINGS COULD RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH.

General cleaning procedures for cleaning smokeless powder rifles also apply to black powder rifles. 

However, because you are using black powder and cast lead bullets, there are some unique differences.

Your rifle will function better and more reliably over a longer period of time if it is properly maintained and kept clean. You should clean your Model 1885 black powder rifle after every day of shooting and more often if it becomes excessively dirty or the barrel excessively fouled. Regular cleaning of the barrel greatly aids in shot-to-shot accuracy. Normal cleaning of a black powder rifle includes cleaning the barrel and chamber area, brushing and flushing the action, and oiling key parts. If you encounter a function problem (tight action when working the finger lever), be sure to give your gun a thorough cleaning to see if it solves the problem before seeking the services of our service facility or a qualified gunsmith.

CLEANING THE BARREL

1. Open the action by completely lowering the finger lever.

2. Place your rifle securely in the horizontal position in a gun vise or on a padded table to prevent the stock from being damaged.

3. Fold the rear tang Vernier sight down (if applicable) and cover it with a rag to prevent it and the stock from being damaged by the cleaning rod, solvent or barrel residue.

4. Inspect the chamber and bore for powder fouling. A normal amount of powder residue can be expected and is not serious. It can usually be removed with a patch saturated with a quality black powder cleaning solvent. Clean the bore using an appropriate rifle cleaning rod with a tip and patch of the correct caliber to provide a snug fit in the bore. Insert the rod and patch into the barrel at the breech end and run it back and forth several times. Care should be exercised to ensure that the cleaning rod does not strike the crown of the muzzle, as damage to this area can affect the accuracy of your rifle. A muzzle protector can be purchased separately from your local firearms dealer to help protect the muzzle crown while cleaning the barrel of your rifle. If, or when, fouling should become heavy, it can be removed with a brass bore brush. Dip or spray the brush with black powder cleaning solvent and scrub the chamber and bore until the fouling is removed. To prevent brass bristles from breaking off, the brush should be pushed completely through the barrel before being withdrawn.

5. Clean the barrel again with a black powder cleaning solvent soaked patch.

6. Continue to swab the bore with dry patches until they come out clean.

7. If you are finished cleaning, pass a lightly oiled patch through the barrel for preservation. A fine, light gun oil is recommended. The barrel should be inspected thoroughly to be certain no cleaning patches have been inadvertently left in the bore.

WARNING: BEFORE PERFORMING CLEANING PROCEDURES, OPEN THE ACTION AND MAKE CERTAIN YOUR RIFLE IS COMPLETELY UNLOADED. KEEP THE MUZZLE POINTED IN A SAFE DIRECTION. FAILURE TO FOLLOW THESE WARNINGS COULD RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH.

WEAR EYE PROTECTION WHEN DISASSEMBLING AND CLEANING YOUR RIFLE TO PREVENT SPRINGS, SPRING-LOADED PARTS, SOLVENTS OR OTHER AGENTS FROM CONTACTING YOUR EYES, RESULTING IN INJURY.

KEEP ALL AMMUNITION AWAY FROM THE CLEANING AREA. NEVER TEST THE MECHANICAL FUNCTION OF YOUR RIFLE WITH LIVE AMMUNITION. FAILURE TO FOLLOW THESE WARNINGS COULD RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH.

Black Powder and Pyrodex® leave more residue than smokeless powder, making it important that you carefully inspect the exposed working parts of your rifle to be sure they are clean. 

1. Clean any debris from the rim and extractor cutout at the breech end of the barrel using solvent and a small nylon brush (a toothbrush is ideal). A small pick may also be used, but use care not to damage the surfaces.

2. When cleaning and shooting, residue will fall down into the action. It is important to keep this area as clean as possible. If they are left inside the action they can lead to function problems or cause corrosion.

3. Clean the action by lowering the finger lever to open the action. Spray a quality aerosol black powder cleaning solvent into the action from both the top and bottom of the action. Be sure to clean the hammer main springs where they are exposed.

4. Once the area is clean, lightly spray the area with a high quality, lightweight aerosol gun oil to prevent corrosion.

ADDITIONAL SUGGESTIONS

• When transporting your rifle, store it in a quality protective case to prevent scratches and dents. Store your rifle in a cool, dry place to prevent corrosion. Store your rifle and ammunition separately, away from children.
• After extended periods of heavy use, your gun should be taken to a qualified gunsmith to have the action disassembled for professional cleaning and lubrication.

NOTICE: NEVER ATTEMPT TO TAKE YOUR FIREARM APART FURTHER THAN EXPLAINED IN THIS OWNER’S MANUAL. YOUR FIREARM IS A SPECIALIZED, FINELY FITTED MECHANISM. YOU MAY PERMANENTLY DAMAGE IT BY ATTEMPTING TO DISASSEMBLE THE INNER MECHANISM. IF FURTHER DISASSEMBLY FOR SERVICE OR CLEANING IS REQUIRED, TAKE YOUR FIREARM TO A QUALIFIED GUNSMITH, OR CONTACT OUR ARNOLD, MISSOURI SERVICE FACILITY AS EXPLAINED UNDER THE “PARTS, SERVICE, REPAIR AND QUESTIONS.” SECTION.

If your Winchester firearm should require service or repair, we suggest first contacting a Winchester Repeating Arms Authorized Repair Center. To locate an Authorized Repair Center visit winchesterguns.com, contact our customer service department or ask your local Winchester Repeating Arms dealer. You may also send your firearm to the Winchester Repeating Arms Service Facility in Arnold, Missouri. In order to avoid service delays, do not send your firearm directly to our service facility without authorization from one of our service specialists. 

Parts listings, a list of Authorized Repair Centers, service procedures, service/repair form and  

general product information are on the web at winchesterguns.com.

When returning your firearm for service, you must do the following:

1. Be sure it is completely unloaded.

2. Remove any optics, optic mounts or other accessories.

3. Package it securely in a cardboard container.

4. Enclose the service/repair form available at winchesterguns.com or a letter that clearly describes the trouble experienced, the ammunition used, and the repairs desired. Also include your name, e-mail address (if possible), and a daytime phone number where you can be reached.

5. Never return ammunition with your firearm. It is against postal and most commerce regulations.

WARNING: PARTS ARE MADE FOR WINCHESTER BRAND FIREARMS MANUFACTURED BY OR FOR WINCHESTER REPEATING ARMS, AND SHOULD NOT BE USED IN OTHER FIREARMS, EVEN THOUGH MODELS MAY BE SIMILAR. IMPROPERLY FITTED PARTS MAY BE DANGEROUS. FAILURE TO FOLLOW THIS WARNING MAY CAUSE INJURY OR DEATH AND CAUSE DAMAGE TO YOUR FIREARM.

An information resource for Winchester Repeating Arms can be found online at winchesterguns.com. 

• List of Authorized Repair Centers.
• Customer Service information.
• Firearm Service/Repair Form.
• Answers to many technical and historical questions.
• Links to helpful sites.

CERTAIN STATES REQUIRE, BY LAW, THAT THEIR OWN SPECIFIED WARNING NOTICES BE INCLUDED BY THE MANUFACTURER, DISTRIBUTOR, OR RETAIL DEALER WITH FIREARMS SOLD IN THAT STATE. BROWNING SELLS ITS PRODUCTS IN COMPLIANCE WITH APPLICABLE LAWS AND REGULATIONS. BECAUSE OUR PRODUCTS MAY BE SOLD IN THESE STATES, WE INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING:

CALIFORNIA

Firearms must be handled responsibly and securely stored to prevent access by children and other unauthorized users. California has strict laws pertaining to firearms, and you may be fined or imprisoned if you fail to comply with them. Visit the Website of the California Attorney General at https://oag.ca.gov/firearms for information on firearm laws applicable to you and how you can comply.

Prevent child access by always keeping guns locked away and unloaded when not in use. If you keep a loaded firearm where a child obtains and improperly uses it, you may be fined or sent to prison.

If you or someone you know is contemplating suicide, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255).

Las armas de fuego deben de ser manipuladas responsablemente y almacenadas en sitios seguros para prevenir el acceso a ellas por parte de niños y personas sin autorización. California cuenta con leyes estrictas sobre las armas de fuego, y puede ser multado y encarcelado si no las obedece. Visite la página web de California Attorney General, https://oag.ca.gov/firearms para más información sobre cómo cumplir con las leyes de armas de fuego. 

Prevenga el acceso de los niños a las armas de fuego manteniéndolas siempre en un lugar seguro, bajo llave y descargadas cuando no estén en uso. Si usted deja un arma cargada al alcance de un niño, y éste la utiliza indebidamente,usted podría ser multado e incluso enviado a la cárcel.

Si usted o alguien que conoce está pensando en suicidarse, llame a la línea Nacional de Prevención del Suicidio al 1-800-273-TALK (8255).

CONNECTICUT

“UNLAWFUL STORAGE OF A LOADED FIREARM MAY RESULT IN IMPRISONMENT OR FINE.”

FLORIDA

“IT IS UNLAWFUL, AND PUNISHABLE BY IMPRISONMENT AND FINE, FOR ANY ADULT TO STORE OR LEAVE A FIREARM IN ANY PLACE WITHIN THE REACH OR EASY ACCESS OF A MINOR UNDER 18 YEARS OF AGE OR TO KNOWINGLY SELL OR OTHERWISE TRANSFER OWNERSHIP OR POSSESSION OF A FIREARM TO A MINOR OR A PERSON OF UNSOUND MIND.”

MAINE

“ENDANGERING THE WELFARE OF A CHILD IS A CRIME. IF YOU LEAVE A FIREARM AND AMMUNITION WITHIN EASY ACCESS OF A CHILD, YOU MAY BE SUBJECT TO FINE, IMPRISONMENT OR BOTH. KEEP FIREARMS AND AMMUNITION SEPARATE. KEEP FIREARMS AND AMMUNITION LOCKED UP. USE TRIGGER LOCKS.”

MARYLAND

“WARNING: Children can operate firearms which may cause death or serious injury. It is a crime to store or leave a loaded firearm in any location where an individual knew or should have known that an unsupervised minor would gain access to the firearm. Store your firearm responsibly!” 

MASSACHUSETTS

“WARNING FROM THE MASSACHUSETTS ATTORNEY GENERAL: This handgun is not equipped with a device that fully blocks use by unauthorized users. More than 200,000 firearms like this one are stolen from their owners every year in the United States. In addition, there are more than a thousand suicides each year by younger children and teenagers who get access to firearms. Hundreds more die from accidental discharge. It is likely that many more children sustain serious wounds, or inflict such wounds accidentally on others. In order to limit the chance of such misuse, it is imperative that you keep this weapon locked in a secure place and take other steps necessary to limit the possibility of theft or accident. Failure to take reasonable preventative steps may result in innocent lives being lost, and in some circumstances may result in your liability for these deaths.”

“IT IS UNLAWFUL TO STORE OR KEEP A FIREARM, RIFLE, SHOTGUN OR MACHINE GUN IN ANY PLACE UNLESS THAT WEAPON IS EQUIPPED WITH A TAMPER RESISTANT SAFETY DEVICE OR IS STORED OR KEPT IN A SECURELY LOCKED CONTAINER.” 

NEW JERSEY

“IT IS A CRIMINAL OFFENSE TO LEAVE A LOADED FIREARM WITHIN EASY ACCESS OF A MINOR.”

NEW YORK CITY, NEW YORK

“THE USE OF A LOCKING DEVICE OR SAFETY LOCK IS ONLY ONE ASPECT OF RESPONSIBLE WEAPON STORAGE. ALL WEAPONS SHOULD BE STORED UNLOADED AND LOCKED IN A LOCATION THAT IS BOTH SEPARATE FROM THEIR AMMUNITION AND INACCESSIBLE TO CHILDREN AND ANY OTHER UNAUTHORIZED PERSONS. NEW YORK CITY LAW PROHIBITS, WITH CERTAIN EXCEPTIONS, ANY PERSON FROM ACQUIRING MORE THAN ONE FIREARM, OR MORE THAN ONE RIFLE OR SHOTGUN, WITHIN A 90-DAY PERIOD.”

NORTH CAROLINA

“IT IS UNLAWFUL TO STORE OR LEAVE A FIREARM THAT CAN BE DISCHARGED IN A MANNER THAT A REASONABLE PERSON SHOULD KNOW IS ACCESSIBLE TO A MINOR.” 

Any person who resides in the same premises as a minor, owns or possesses a firearm, and stores or leaves the firearm (i) in a condition that the firearm can be discharged and (ii) in a manner that the person knew or should have known that an unsupervised minor would be able to gain access to the firearm, is guilty of a Class 1 misdemeanor if a minor gains access to the firearm without the lawful permission of the minor’s parents or a person having charge of the minor and the minor:

1. Possesses it in violation of G.S. 14-269.2(b)
2. Exhibits it in a public place in a careless, angry, or threatening manner;
3. Causes personal injury or death with it not in self defense; or
4. Uses it in the commission of a crime.

TEXAS

“IT IS UNLAWFUL TO STORE, TRANSPORT, OR ABANDON AN UNSECURED FIREARM IN A PLACE WHERE CHILDREN ARE LIKELY TO BE AND CAN OBTAIN ACCESS TO THE FIREARM.”

WISCONSIN

“IF YOU LEAVE A LOADED FIREARM WITHIN THE REACH OR EASY ACCESS OF A CHILD YOU MAY BE FINED OR IMPRISONED OR BOTH IF THE CHILD IMPROPERLY DISCHARGES, POSSESSES, OR EXHIBITS THE FIREARM.”

PLEASE CONSULT YOUR LOCAL FEDERALLY LICENSED FIREARMS RETAILER, STATE POLICE, OR LOCAL POLICE FOR ADDITIONAL WARNINGS THAT MAY BE REQUIRED BY LOCAL LAW OR REGULATION. FIREARMS REGULATIONS CHANGE CONSTANTLY AND YOUR LOCAL AUTHORITIES ARE THE BEST SOURCE FOR THE MOST CURRENT INFORMATION ON SUCH LEGAL MATTERS. 

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