winchester model 94

Model 94 30-30 SN 2460658: The gun is going to continue to be used for what is was made -regular shooting at deer in the woods. Can you confirm it was made in 1958 and when buying an older used 94 ... what functional parts and what signs of functional wear should I be looking for? What typically gives out? If I find any worn parts are any of the parts(from the period) hard to get?

Gandoff

Can you check that serial number again. It is in the 24 million range. It should be in the 2 million range. I am no gun smith so I would HIGHLY reccomend taking it to one who is familiar with Winchester rifles for an assessment. Most of my rifles are greater than a hundred years old and function perfectly. If yours shows any signs of less than very good care absolutely have it looked at. Parts are easy to get.

2bit

my model 94 serial # 2460658 was it made in 1958?

Gandoff

Woops sorry about that. I could have sworn it looked like 24 million to me the first time. I looked it up your rifle was "manufactured" in 1960.
BUT, You may want to contact the Cody Firearms Museum if the date is very very important to you. They have the hand written production ledgers for these rifles. The commonly used data has been found to be in error by up to 3 or 4 years for some Winchester models. But it is the data that is used to determine antique status for rifles,pre 1899, and that is just the way it is. Cody could tell you when your rifle was really made. Sorry for the confusion.

2bit

i went to the musem and I'll let you know how it works out-thanks for your insight...does a trapper (16) 94 have a stigma for inaccuracy-ie could I expect 2" groups at 100 yds?

Gandoff.

All my 1894s are standard sporting rifles with original 26" octagon barrels. Shooting 2" groups from sitting with no aids is no problem. I do not have experience with the much shorter barreled carbines. If yo uare a real good shot and use sand bags at the range you should be close to that.

Good luck
2bit