We are so polite up here in Canada, we want to share our holiday with everyone... so go ahead, take the day off, and tell your boss I said you get paid for the day too!
My new-to-me Winchester 1886 Lever Action rifle in caliber 45/70. She really is a beauty, and even those of you who do not use firearms can likely appreciate the wonderful workmanship in this classic Old West style rifle.
This one is a remake by Winchester/Miroku. It has been altered from it's original configuration, which collectors will shun with cries of "Burn the Witch!" The original spec had a crescent shaped butt stock, like a true 1886 back in the days of the great plains buffalo hunts. They looked cool but were not comfortable to shoot. Mine now sports a more traditional shotgun style butt stock as you see above. Easier on the shoulder! In order to maintain the balance of the rifle, the barrel was shortened from its original 26" down to 24". It handles very nicely.
Big Boomers updated... ... and here she is....
Some big boomers
I don't know why, but recently I had an itch for a hunting rifle in one of the big thumper calibers.
So I first obtained a Marlin SBL, which is a classic lever action in the historic 45/70 Govt. caliber.
The SBL designation stands for "Stainless, Big Loop". It also features a laminate stock, full length magazine tube, and a scope rail.
Only an 18 and a 1/5" barrel, and it is super accurate.
I immediately became fascinated with this caliber! Accurate, hard-hitting, in a compact package - what's not to like!
And as a reloader, I can taylor make loads that don't punish me if I choose.
So naturally I had to find another variation on this theme. I found a very nice Winchester/Miroku 1886 take-down rifle.
Had to have it. It sports a heavy 24" octagonal barrel, which harkens way back to the days of the plains buffalo hunters.
On mine, the crescent shaped butt stock was altered to a more traditional shape, like the Marlin above. This model usually has a 26" barrel, but this one was professionally shortened to improve its' balance.
I am still awaiting the arrival of my copy, and will update this post with actual pics and reviews ... can't wait!
Is it hunting season yet?
How many of you are already getting antsy for the deep bush.... ? Everything's ready to go.
Agh! Gotta get out of the Big City!
Great Grampa and our first grandchild...
If you've been following me on Instagram, you have already seen "a number" of posts about Maverick!
