Winchester Model 1894 38-55 (1921mfg)

The Winchester Model 1894 (also known as the Winchester 94 or M94) in .38-55 Winchester is a classic lever-action rifle with a rich history. Here’s a detailed overview:

Overview

Designer: John Browning

Manufacturer: Winchester Repeating Arms

Introduced: 1894

Type: Lever-action repeating rifle

Cartridge: .38-55 Winchester (also known as .38-55 Ballard)

Action: Lever-action, tubular magazine

.38-55 Winchester Cartridge

Bullet Diameter: .377–.379 in (9.6 mm)

Case Length: 2.085 in (53 mm)

Overall Length: ~2.51 in

Velocity: ~1,300–1,600 fps (factory loads, 255 gr bullet)

Energy: ~950–1,200 ft-lbs

Effective Range: 150–200 yards (hunting), 300+ yards (target/black powder loads)

Note: The .38-55 was originally a black powder cartridge (introduced in 1884 for the Ballard rifle), but modern versions use smokeless powder. It’s known for accuracy and mild recoil, making it popular for target shooting and medium game hunting (deer, black bear).

Model 1894 in .38-55 – Key Features

Feature

Details

Barrel Length

20", 24", 26" (most common: 26" octagon in early models)

Magazine

Tubular, 6–7 rounds (depending on barrel length)

Sights

Buckhorn rear, blade front (many upgraded to tang/peep sights)

Weight

~7–8 lbs

Stock

Walnut, straight grip (early) or pistol grip (later)

Production History (1894–Present)

Era

Notes

1894–1930s

Peak production; .38-55 was a standard caliber. Many octagon barrels, case-hardened receivers.

WWII Era

Production slowed; .38-55 less common.

1950s–1980s

.38-55 phased out in favor of .30-30; rare in new production.

This rifles octagon barrel has been shortened to 22”. The wood has some well done carvings. Great bore and action!

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