^Lot 71 Winchester-Hotchkiss Saddle Ring Carbine

Indian Wars Era Winchester-Hotchkiss Bolt Action Saddle Ring Carbine, First Model (Model 1879), #1710, .45-70 Gov't CF cal., 24'' barrel with block-blade front and adjustable leaf rear sights; steel receiver is marked with the maker's name, address and 1860-78 patent dates in three lines, has the unique rotating magazine cutoff selector on right side and saddle ring and stud on left; oil-finished one-piece walnut halfstock with single spring-retained barrel band, one-piece triggerguard, carbine-style buttplate and 6-shot tubular cartridge magazine within the buttstock. Condition is very good+, the barrel and band retaining approx. 15% blue blending into brown patina, the receiver with approx. 70% blue, the triggerguard and buttplate with most original dull military blue. Stock is sound with a professionally repaired crack extending from triggerguard to top tang on right side (a common result of the cutoff selector), otherwise smooth and with good color. Action is taut and smooth; bore is brilliant with defined rifling. The Hotchkiss was the first bolt-action Winchester, and the first with a buttstock magazine. Est.: $500-$900. (Antique)