r/canadaguns • u/Nice_Elk1052 • 18d ago

Buy recommendations Winchester 1894

I’ve always wanted to get a Winchester 1894 after my dads was stolen when I was a kid and I just was looking for tips or opinions on the rifle. My main concern is how the action works. We go out in all sorts of weather for ranching and I’m worried that since the action opens the top and bottom it’ll get damaged from water, dust, and mud. Everyone’s told me that theirs have never let them down but I just want more unbiased opinions. Thanks everyone for reading.

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u/Sillyak 18d ago

For a 73, 86 or 92 I recommend the Miroku ones, but pre-64 94s are so plentiful, and reasonably priced, you may as well go that route.

They are an awesome rifle and a great working gun. The best gun imaginable to actually carry in your hands since they are so incredibly slim.

You are poking on a weak spot of many Winchester lever actions though. They are not easy to fully strip and clean. Debris doesn't tend to accumulate in them, since when the action is closed the tolerances are right enough to keep out debris, but if it gets wet, or debris does accumulate, and you have to fully strip it, it isn't easy. You can do it, but it's not something you will want to do often.