Winchester 1894 French Variation

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Non-restricted Item #C3928

Winchester 1894 French Variation

  • Licensing Category: Non-restricted
  • Maker: Winchester
  • Model: 1894
  • Caliber/Gauge: .32-40

  • Description:

    NSN appears on this 1894 Winchester.  This carbine appears to be a variation of the Winchester's that were incorrectly identified as a Belgium contract (Madis, page 394).  This well used piece is not in 30-30 caliber but is in the scarcest caliber (32-40). Only 12,186 were built and deleted in 1930.  This unusual piece shows the butt swivel and band as used on the French WW1 era carbines.  The barrel is factory marked on the left side of the barrel with the Francaice D'Arms & Cycles, St. Etienne marking.  All component parts show a number of uncommon proofs or marks probably associated with the French military or police.  Our best guess is that this piece was acquired from Winchester in the WW1 era.  It was obviously issued to a French military or police unit.  Over our many businesses we have had several dozen Belgium contract? carbines.  This is the only example that we have encountered in this configeration and in 32-40 caliber.  The carbine shows a good plus bore showing the results of corrosive primed cartridges.  The action and wood are sound.  The metal shows spots of corrosion and old military finish.  A less than common variation of a Winchester contract carbine.