I have a model 1894 with serial number 354565. Can you tell ...

I have a model 1894 with serial number 354565. Can you tell me the year of manufacture, Thanks

Guest,

That is easy. Made in or around 1906. The commonly used data was generated prior to 1961 and has been found, through further research, to not be absolutely correct. It can be off by a couple years easily. If you want the definitive date and a bit more info contact the Cody Firearms Museum in Wyoming.

You might like this post also. It deals with Model 1894 rifles.
http://www.gunvaluesboard.com/why-i-need-photos- 254864.html#25490

Thanks
2bit

Thank you, 2bit. It is much older than I thought

Conan,

If you want post a photo or three or four. I might be able to tell you more about it. Just do not ever sand it or mess wit hthe bluing. It is its most valuable in its original condition.

2bit

Thanks 2bit. I will post some pics when I get back. I'm on my way out of town for a few days. The rifle belonged to a friend of the family. I do know he used it for hunting and feeding his family many years ago. I doubt it has been fired in 20 years or more. Talk to you soon

2bit, what about cleaning it other than keeping it oiled. What about the stock, should it be rubbed with anything...oil? I have had the rifle for about 8 years and my dad had it for several before then. We did not do any other conditioning to it.

Conan,

A good cleaning of the bore with some Hoppe's #9 solvent via a cleaning rod followed by a few dry patches and then one with 5 or 6 oil drops on it will take cae of the rifling.

A clean patch with some oil on it for the metal exterior trying to keep it off the wood. And just some good furniture polish for the wood. I would not use anything really oily on the wood. Then just keep it dry and enjoy it.

What is the caliber of the rifle?

Looking forward to some photos
2bit

2bit,

It is a 30 cal