Browning Model 1886 High Grade — .45-70 Government 26” Lever-Action Rifle (No. 946 of 3,000, 1986)
Archival record: Specifications and condition reflect the firearm as listed at the time of auction.
Final Auction Price: $4,225.00
This Browning Model 1886 Limited Edition High Grade (No. 946 of 3,000) is a premium reproduction of John Browning’s classic 1886 lever-action, manufactured in 1986 by Miroku (Japan) and chambered in .45-70 Government. Fitted with a 26” octagonal barrel, greyed-steel receiver with gold accents, and select checkered walnut, this limited-edition example presents in Excellent condition and is an exceptional collectible or hunting rifle.
Identification
MMA#: 250915KM017
Make: Browning (manufactured by Miroku, Japan)
Model: 1886 Limited Edition High Grade — No. 946 of 3,000
Serial Number: 00946PT697
Year of Manufacture: 1986
Caliber: .45-70 Government
Action Type: Tubular-magazine fed lever-action rifle
Barrel Length: 26” (octagonal)
Sights / Optics
Front sight: brass bead blade dovetailed to the barrel.
Rear sight: square-notch semi-buckhorn dovetailed to the barrel—classic sighting for hunting and traditional lever guns.
Stock Configuration & Condition
Two-piece high-grade checkered walnut stock with nosecap, straight grip, straight comb, and crescent steel buttplate. Checkering remains sharp; only light handling marks, tiny compressions, and faint lines are present—easily overlooked without close inspection. Length of Pull (LOP): 13¼” to the buttplate. Stock condition: Excellent.
Finish & Overall Condition
Type of Finish: Blued barrel with greyed-steel receiver and gold accents (original)
This rifle retains approximately 98% of its metal finish. Light freckling/oxidation and faint handling marks appear primarily on the magazine tube and muzzle edges. Screw heads are sharp and markings clear. Overall condition: Excellent.
Bore & Mechanics
Bore Condition: Bright with sharp rifling; a few areas of light oxidation/erosion — writer rating 9/10.
Mechanics: Action cycles and functions correctly; lockup and lever work are solid on inspection. This rifle has not been test-fired by our team; professional inspection and routine maintenance are recommended prior to use.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories
Included: serial-matching box, owner manual, and shipping sleeve.
Our Assessment
Browning’s Model 1886 reproductions honor John Browning’s original design that handled the era’s larger cartridges — notably the .45-70 Government. The limited High Grade series produced by Miroku in the 1980s combines classic form with fine wood, crisp checkering, and tasteful receiver accents. This No. 946 example is exceptionally well preserved: nearly full original finish, a strong bore, and detailed receiver work. Suitable for both active hunting and high-grade collecting, it stands out as a desirable lever-action in a powerful, historic chambering.
The Mt. McCoy Auctions Difference
At Mt. McCoy Auctions we create durable archival records for every firearm we handle—measured specs, condition notes, and professional photography—so collectors and researchers have accurate, long-lived references. We also manage intake, compliance, national exposure, and secure settlement for consignors and buyers.
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