Value of 1896 Winchester Rifle with octagon barrel, lever action

[welsummerchicks]

I'm sorry if I'm not using the right words, but I don't know much about these rifles.

Do any of you collect such weapons or have any experience with their value?

When I did internet searches, I didn't find any of exactly this year to compare to.

Obviously the older they are the more they are worth, I'm just trying to get a better idea.

We'd like to make a cabinet and display the two oldest rifles if we don't sell them.

But I'm ALSO concerned about keeping them in good condition.

Are there special storage/display recommendations? I'm concerned about rust, corrosion, sunlight, rapid humidity changes, etc.

Also, it's been some time since it was cleaned and re-oiled. ANy suggestions there for how I should do that and what supplies I need?

 

[A.T. Hagan]

Google "Winchester lever action discussion" without the quote marks and you'll find a number of firearms specific boards that you can seek advice from.

What you are asking has many potential answers. Determining value depends on a number of specifics such as caliber, condition, specific features and so on.

Those guns are highly collectible and have been for a long time so there are a lot of folks out there who could help you.

 

[turney31]

I don't know about the value of the gun but I will ask Dh when he gets in. I know you can buy a gun cleaning kit at (ARGGG) Wal-mart. A long shadow box makes a neat display. Badges, deck of old cards, horse bits make good additions to the box. Can you tell how my house is decorated?

 

[gamebirdboy]

Need a little more info to put a price on it. For keeping it in good condition buy some rem-oil and clean the gun every now and then. A pic might help.

 

[Carols Clucks]

Any tips on selling old rifles?

I found a pair of my dads up in the attic and want to sell to help pay for repairs to the house. But I want to make sure I am not giving them away to the gun dealer.

 

[KenK]

Go to gunbroker dot com for valuation help. If you register you can look at completed auctions where the gun actually sold. Some items are listed seemingly for eternity and never sell so be aware that the asking prices in ads aren't necessarily an accurate value.

Most of the time grandpa's old gun isn't worth nearly as much as somebody thinks. There are gems out there though that can be worth a fortune.

Never, ever, do anything to remove original patina.

 

[rebelcowboysnb]

Just keep lightly cleaned an well oiled. Never do heavy cleaning or try to make it look new. That will kill the value.

 

[welsummerchicks]

WOw! LOts of helpful information, thanks.

 

[Baymule]

Take it to a pawn shop. Those guys know what EVERYTHING is worth.