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Quick Look

The Winchester 1885, designed by John Browning, introduced a robust single-shot falling-block action in 1885. Its design prioritizes strength and precision for hunters and marksmen. Today, it remains a prized classic in the single-shot rifle niche for collectors and shooters valuing accuracy.

Why It's a Top Choice

Exceptional single-shot strength and reliability
Simple, durable falling-block action for precision
Strong aftermarket support for custom barrels and stocks
Excellent for hunting and target shooting
Classic design with historic significance

Key Variants

Winchester 1885 Low Wall

Ideal for medium-game hunting with its compact action and balanced weight.

Winchester 1885 High Wall

Designed for large-game hunting, offering higher strength for magnum cartridges.

Competitor Comparison Table

Feature	Winchester 1885	Ithaca Model 37	Ruger No. 1
MSRP	$1,400 - $2,000	$900 - $1,200	$1,100 - $1,800
Capacity/Size	Single-shot	Single-shot shotgun	Single-shot rifle
Weight	6.5 - 8 lbs	6.0 - 7.5 lbs	6.25 - 7.75 lbs
Optics-Ready	Yes, on most models	No	Yes
Trigger Type	Single-stage, crisp	Break-action	Single-stage adjustable
Notable Pro	Strong action with historic value	Reliable for bird hunting	Modern quality and accuracy
Notable Con	Limited to single shot	No rifle option	Higher price point

Best Use Cases

Precision hunting for medium to large game
Target shooting and marksmanship practice
Collectors seeking historic firearms
Long-range accuracy enthusiasts
Legacy shooting competitions

FAQs

Can I mount modern optics on the Winchester 1885?

Yes, many Winchester 1885 models come with drilled and tapped receivers for scope mounts, enabling modern optics installation.

What cartridges does the Winchester 1885 support?

It supports a wide range, from .22 caliber rimfire up to powerful big-game cartridges like .45-70 Government, depending on variant.

How does the falling-block action work?

The falling-block action lowers a solid block to open the breech, allowing safe loading and strong lockup for firing.

WINCHESTER 1885 for Sale