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Bryant Ridge's Analysis: Winchester wanted to make the ultimate lever-action, big game hunting rifle, and in the minds of many, they did just that with the Model 71. The 71 was based on the Model 1886's action, but along with a host of new features and small changes, was considered an "improved" version. One of the so-called improvements was a new stock design, already being incorporated on Winchester's Model 65. The Model 71 was also made out of "Winchester Proof Steel", a stronger steel than t …

Bryant Ridge's Analysis: The Winchester Model 1894, also known as the Model 94, is a legendary lever-action repeating rifle designed by John Browning and introduced in 1894. Originally chambered for two black powder cartridges, the .32-40 Winchester and .38-55 Winchester, the Model 1894 made history in 1895 by becoming the first rifle to chamber a smokeless powder round, the .30 WCF (Winchester Center Fire), later known as the iconic .30-30 Winchester. Additionally, the Model 1894 was produced i …

Bryant Ridge's Analysis: The Winchester Model 54, produced from 1925 until 1937, holds a significant place in the history of bolt-action sporting rifles as Winchester's first successful entry into the category. A sporterized version of the Mauser design, the Model 54 was an important step forward but lacked some of the refinements that many bolt-action hunters were seeking. When the Winchester Model 70 debuted in 1937, it set a new standard, offering a more robust action, better checkering, impr …

Bryant Ridge's Analysis: The Winchester Model 1894 rifle (also known as the Winchester 94 or Model 94) is a lever-action repeating rifle that became one of the most famous and popular hunting rifles of all time. It was designed by John Browning in 1894 and originally chambered to fire two metallic black powder cartridges, the .32-40 Winchester and .38-55 Winchester. It was the first rifle to chamber the smokeless powder round, the .30 WCF (.30 Winchester Center Fire, in time becoming known as th …

Bryant Ridge's Analysis: The Winchester Model 94 is one of the most iconic rifles in the company’s storied history, representing the epitome of the Winchester legacy. Known for its combination of rugged function and beautiful craftsmanship, the Model 94 has remained largely unchanged since its introduction. The rifle features a compact receiver that balances weight evenly between the hands, making it easy to carry and operate. The absence of an external lever hinge below the receiver ensur …