1892 .25-20

While I am keen on most Winchester lever action rifles, I must say that the 1892 is likely my favorite.

I think it has just a little better ergonomics to the later, more robust model 94, though I am basing that largely on my antique 1892's vs. my modern Model 94. I can't help wonder if I were to handle a period 1894, if I wouldn't find it as pleasing.

This 1892 was manufactured in 1915, and came from my mother's father.

It is in very good shape mechanically, though the finish seems to have been mis-placed.

Still, the condition of the finish, and the dings on the wood tell stories of days gone by. Of long forgotten hunting trips and adventures long ago...

My grandfather died while I was very young, and I don't remember him much, though, as is usually the case in such stories, I wish I had known him better.

 The fact that he had an 1892 Winchester speaks well of him. This rifle is the only possession of his I own, and I cherish it accordingly. I remember bouncing on his knee, and the fact that he always smelled of machine oil and tobacco. I remember his cat, Mickey, almost as much as I remember him, which speaks well of the cat, but not so well of my memory.

While I am proud to own his rifle, I wish he had picked one up chambered in something other than .25-20. It's rather a pip-squeeky sort of anemic little cartridge, and I can't imagine what he would have hunted with it, on those long forgotten hunting trips of yore.

If, as I said at the top of this page, the Winchester 1892 is my favorite lever action Winchester, there in lies the root of this problem.

The '92's action wasn't robust enough for more powerful cartridges, and that is precisely "why" the Model of 1894 was developed.

Rest in peace, Grandpa, your rifle is in good hands.

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