Winchester 1885centerfire PDF

03-101_WFA_1885 Centerfire 7/17/03 11:16 AM Page 1
Licensee
IMPORTANT INSTRUCTIONS
FOR
MODEL 1885SINGLE SHOT,

HIGH AND LOW WALL
CENTERFIRE RIFLES
As one of the Classic Traditions models you can expect

the same quality and satisfaction as with the original,
historic Model 1885 introduced by Winchester in 1885.
And, as with the original, you’ll appreciate its elegant
design, strong action and smooth functioning.
275 Winchester Avenue

Morgan, UT, USA 84050-9333
Winchester trademarks licensed from Olin Corporation

Important instructions for
Winchester Model 1885

SINGLE SHOT, HIGH AND LOW WALL
CENTERFIRE RIFLES
Customer Service Department

Morgan, Utah 84050-9333
Phone: 1-800-945-5237
If you have any questions or comments regarding

your new firearm, please feel free to write or call us.
Use the space below to record information about
your new firearm.
Model______________________________________
Caliber _____________________________________
Serial Number ______________________________
Purchased From _____________________________
Date of Purchase _____________________________

PRINTED IN USA • NEU06031/03101
Contents Page
Gun Safety Warnings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
General Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Terminology and Descriptions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Serial Number . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Ammunition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Initial Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Operation of the Hammer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
General Operating Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Shell Deflector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15
Trigger . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16
In the Case of a Misfire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17
Firing Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18
Sight Adjustments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19
Hammer Extension . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23
Cleaning and Maintenance Suggestions . . . . . . . . 24
Parts, Service, Repair & Questions . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Website Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28
1
GUN SAFETY WARNINGS

IT IS ESSENTIAL THAT THESE OPERATING
INSTRUCTIONS BE THOROUGHLY STUDIED
BEFORE USING THIS FIREARM TO
ASSURE PROPER AND SAFE GUN
HANDLING. FAILURE TO FOLLOW THESE
INSTRUCTIONS OR FAILURE TO OBEY
ANY SAFETY WARNING MAY RESULT IN
INJURY TO YOURSELF OR OTHERS, OR
CAUSE DAMAGE TO YOUR GUN.
As a gun owner, you accept a set of demanding
responsibilities. How seriously you take these
responsibilities can be the difference between life
and death. There is no excuse for careless or abusive
handling of any firearm. At all times handle your
rifle and any other firearm with intense respect for
its power and potential danger.
PLEASE READ AND UNDERSTAND ALL
OF THE CAUTIONS, PROPER HANDLING
PROCEDURES AND INSTRUCTIONS
OUTLINED IN THIS BOOKLET BEFORE
USING YOUR NEW FIREARM.
1. Do not carry a loaded gun with a live round in
the chamber while walking, running, climbing a tree,
crossing a fence or anywhere you might slip or fall,
drop the gun or otherwise bump or jar the gun. A gun
that is dropped, bumped, or jarred with a chambered
round might accidentally discharge even with the
safety on, causing serious injury to you or someone
else. When a round is chambered keep the safety on
until you are ready to shoot.
2. Do not rely on the safety (half cock position) to
prevent accidental discharge. Many safeties merely
block the trigger and prevent firing by pulling the
trigger. The safety may not prevent an accidental
discharge due to dropping, jarring, or bumping a gun.
3. Use only ammunition for which the gun is cham-
bered as indicated on the barrel, to prevent excessive
2
pressure and possible serious personal injury.

4. Incorrectly reloaded ammunition can cause
serious personal injury and damage to the firearm
due to excessive pressure. Reload only after proper
instruction and in strict compliance with instruction
and data contained in current reloading manuals.
5. Never point a gun at anything you do not intend
to shoot. Always keep it pointed in a safe direction in
case of accidental discharge.
6. Always check to ensure that the barrel is free of
obstructions before loading and using the gun. If you
experience light recoil or an off sound, open the
action, completely unload the rifle and check the
barrel for obstruction.
7. Before firing, clean any grease or oil out of the
barrel with a cleaning rod and patch. Grease or heavy
accumulation of oil can cause excessive pressure and
result in serious personal injury.
8. Keep barrel, chamber and action free of rust.
Rust in the barrel and chamber can cause excessive
pressures resulting in serious injury. A rusted, pitted
or eroded barrel should be replaced.
9. Use hearing protection to prevent ear damage
from repeated exposure to gunfire.
10. Always use proper shooting glasses to prevent
eye injury from flying particles.
11. Never carry a loaded gun in a motor vehicle or
carry one into a dwelling. Always carefully unload
the gun before entering a motor vehicle, a dwelling
or an area such as a camp. Always point a gun in a
safe direction while loading or unloading to prevent
serious injury in case of an accidental discharge.
Never load in the house or in your vehicle.
12. Never shoot at a hard, flat surface or at the
surface of water to avoid a ricochet and possible
serious personal injury to yourself or a bystander.
13. Store guns in a clean, dry place out of reach of
children and separated from stored ammunition.
3
14. Never alter any parts of your gun. Any alter-

ations or adjustments that may become necessary to
the operating mechanism should be performed by a
qualified gunsmith.
15. Hunting from elevated surfaces such as tree
stands is dangerous. Doing so may increase the risk of
handling any firearm. Always make certain that the
stand being used is safe, sturdy and stable. Always
make certain your firearm is unloaded when it is
being taken up and down from the stand. Always
make certain that your firearm is not dropped from
the stand or dropped while it is being taken up or
down from the stand.
16. Discharging firearms in poorly ventilated areas,
cleaning firearms, or handling ammunition may result
in exposure to lead and other substances known to
cause birth defects, reproductive harm and other
serious physical injury. Have adequate ventilation at
all times. Wash hands thoroughly after exposure.
GENERAL DESCRIPTION
With the introduction of the 1885, the world of
single shots was given a welcome addition.
In 1885 competitive target shooting in America had
the stature professional golf has today. Huge matches
were held at places like Creedmore, New York.
Spectators would number in the thousands. The 1885
was uniquely suited to the long range accuracy
shooting of the day.
It didn’t take long for hunters to embrace the 1885
because of the challenge of hunting with a single shot
and the wide variety of hunting chamberings available.
Although other single shots had proceeded it, a new
standard was set. Over the years it has certainly
appeared that the original Winchester Single Shot 1885
could not be improved upon. It was very close to
perfection when it was first made and remains so today.
Figure 1 covers the general features and benefits of
4
the Model 1885 design. After reading the warnings

in the front of this manual, Figure 1 is a good place to
start to become familiar with your rifle.
Cycling the lever downward opens the breech and
drops the hammer out of the way. This leaves easy
access to the chamber area for inserting a round.
When the lever is returned upward the breech closes
and the hammer moves upward again — but now the
hammer is in the cocked position.
After firing, the lever can be returned downward
which again lowers the breech block and the
hammer, and at the same time extracts the cartridge.
Black powder models of the Model 1885 are also
available. Specific instructions and specifications for
the black powder models will be included with those
particular rifles.
This manual covers the features of all new models of
the centerfire Model 1885 after 2002. If you should
have an older model of the centerfire Model 1885,
please call our Customer Service Dept. at
1-800-945-5237.
TERMINOLOGY AND DESCRIPTIONS

Descriptions in this manual generally refer to the gun
in the horizontal position. That is, in the normal
firing position. For example, the muzzle is forward or
front; the buttstock is rearward or rear; the trigger is
downward or underneath; the sights are upward or on
top. For general parts terminology refer to Figures 2A,
2B and 2C. Throughout this manual the “action”
refers to the mechanism which secures the cartridge
in the chamber.
SERIAL NUMBER
The serial number can be found on the lower right
side of the receiver toward the rear corner (Figure 3).
Record it in the space provided at the front of this
manual for future reference.
5
FIGURE 1
MODEL 1885, FEATURES
After more than 70 years, the Winchester Model

1885 is back. It is a careful reproduction of one of
the original configurations. A superb rifle with the
fit and finish that you expect in a Winchester.
Drilled and tapped for

scope mounts
(Available separately)
The massive breech block design

is one reason the Model 1885 has
proven so accurate
Cartridge ejector
system and shell
deflector
Traditional three-position
hammer: dropped, half cock
and full cock
6
Traditional open sights

easily adjustable for
elevation and drift
adjustable for windage
A special internal hanger system

allows the forearm to be free floating
so it will not affect accuracy
The hammer actually drops down,

out of the way, when the lever is
cycled forward. This makes loading
and unloading very convenient
7
FIGURE 2A
Ejector (below the
Breech Block chamber)
Hammer
Buttstock
Receiver
Finger Lever
Trigger
Buttplate
AMMUNITION
Your Winchester Model 1885 is designed to shoot
modern factory cartridges only. The caliber of your new
Model 1885 is inscribed on the top of the barrel in front
of the receiver. Use only ammunition for which your
Model 1885 is chambered –– as indicated on the barrel
–– to prevent excessive pressure and possible serious
injury. Winchester ammunition is always an excellent
choice for your new rifle, delivering unmatched
performance and the dependability you want.
MAKE SURE YOU USE ONLY THE EXACT
AMMUNITION/CALIBER AS LISTED ON THE
BARREL.
Incorrectly reloaded ammunition can cause serious
personal injury and damage to the firearm due
to excessive pressure. Reload only after proper
instruction and in strict compliance with instructions
and data contained in current reloading manuals.
8
Rear Sight Barrel Front Sight
Muzzle
Forearm
F I G U R E 2B
Chamber Rear scope
opening mount holes
Hammer
Top tang
Breech block
DISCHARGING FIREARMS IN POORLY

VENTILATED AREAS, CLEANING
FIREARMS OR HANDLING AMMUNITION
MAY RESULT IN EXPOSURE TO LEAD AND
OTHER SUBSTANCES KNOWN TO CAUSE
BIRTH DEFECTS, REPRODUCTIVE HARM
AND OTHER SERIOUS PHYSICAL INJURY.
HAVE ADEQUATE VENTILATION AT ALL
TIMES. WASH HANDS THOROUGHLY
AFTER EXPOSURE.
9
F I G U R E 2C
Lever in downward position
(underside view)
Trigger
Lever
Trigger Bottom of
Adjustment breech block
screw
INITIAL CLEANING
Before the first firing, clean the anti-rust compound
from the inside of the barrel and receiver with a clean
rag and light gun oil. Lightly oil the action along the
sides of the breech block and at the pivot points on
the lever. Only a small film of oil will ever be neces-
sary. To prevent rust, regularly wipe down all metal
surfaces with an oiled rag. See “Cleaning and
Maintenance Suggestions” later in the manual.
FIGURE 3
Record your serial number

for future reference
10
OPERATION OF THE HAMMER

Like most lever action rifles with exposed hammers,
the Winchester Model 1885 does not have a separate
manual safety. The exposed hammer is an excellent
indicator of the status of the rifle. The hammer has
three positions: full cock, half cock, and dropped
or fired.
FULL COCK POSITION —
The hammer is all the way to the rear (Figure 4). At

this point, any pull or tug on the trigger will force the
hammer to fall, firing the rifle.The hammer can be
placed in this position in either of two ways. First,
every time the lever is cycled lever linkage will leave
the hammer in the full cock position. The hammer
may also be placed at full cock by manually moving
it rearward with the thumb until it engages the full
cock notch. Be sure to keep your finger off the trigger
while cocking the hammer.
HALF COCK POSITION —
The half cock notch on the hammer is a safety

feature designed to protect against accidental
discharge of the rifle in the event the hammer slips
FIGURE 4
Full Cock (fire) position

of the hammer
11
from the thumb while the rifle is being cocked

(Figure 5). The half cock hammer position should be
used for handling and storage — any time that the
rifle is not actually being fired. It is important to
note that the Model 1885 has an inertia sear which
prevents the hammer from going to the dropped
position unless the trigger is pulled with the hammer
in the fully cocked position.
DROPPED OR FIRED POSITION —
The dropped-hammer position is the position of the

hammer after a round is fired (Figure 6). The
dropped position should not be used as a safety
position of the hammer. Whenever the hammer has
fallen to the dropped position (after firing, for
example) it should be immediately moved to the
half cock position.
LOWERING THE HAMMER TO HALF COCK —
Always make certain when lowering the hammer

from full cock to the half cock position that your
thumb is securely and squarely on the hammer and
that the rifle is pointed in a safe direction.
A wise practice to follow is to place your thumb
extended over the hammer with the point of your
thumb just over the “V” between the hammer and
FIGURE 5
Half cock (safe) position

of the hammer
This is the correct

position for
handling and storage
12
the firing pin so that your thumb can act as a cushion

against accidental hammer fall, and at the same time,
ease the hammer into the half cock notch. A little
practice with an empty rifle will enable a person to
become adept at using the thumb in this manner.
To lower the hammer to half cock:
1. Pull the hammer slightly rearward with your
thumb still controlling the hammer.
2. Squeeze the trigger and allow the hammer to
slowly begin forward travel under the control of
your thumb.
3. When the hammer has passed the full cock
position, immediately remove your finger from the
trigger.
4. Carefully lower the hammer until it catches on
the half cock position.
It is possible to move the hammer from the dropped
to the half cock position by partially opening the
lever.
LEVER OPEN POSITION —
Whenever possible, the lever should be lowered down

and fully forward to open the action and lower the
breech block. This is the safest status for your rifle.
FIGURE 6
Dropped position
This is the position

of the hammer after the
trigger has been pulled
from full cock
13
When shooting at ranges, and at many other times,

the action should be open unless shooting
is imminent.
GENERAL OPERATING PROCEDURES

With a cartridge in the chamber, and the hammer
at full cock, the rifle will fire a single round when
the trigger is squeezed. The lever is then rotated
downward, extracting or ejecting, (depending on
model) the fired cartridge. An unfired cartridge may
now be placed in the chamber. The hammer remains
in the full cock position as the lever is closed, ready-
ing the rifle for firing another round.
LOADING —
To load your Model 1885 swing the lever down and

fully forward to lower the breech block (Figure 7).
Manually insert a cartridge into the chamber (Figure 8).
The cartridge should be inserted fully into the cham-
ber to prevent interference with the breech block as
it is closed. The top front surface of the breech block
is channeled to help load a cartridge protruding
slightly from the chamber, but it is best to develop a
FIGURE 7
Work the
finger lever
downward and
forward to open
the breech block
14
FIGURE 8
Insert a cartridge
into the chamber
Be sure to
push the cartridge fully in
habit of pushing the cartridge all the way into the

chamber. Now close the lever. This locks
the action and leaves the hammer in the full cock,
ready-to-fire position.
PLACING THE HAMMER ON HALF COCK —
After loading the rifle, when shooting is not imminent,
the correct position of the hammer is at half cock,
as pictured in Figure 5 on page 12 (see “Operation of
Hammer” section for correct procedure). When the
hammer is in the half cock position, you need only
thumb the hammer back to the full cock position to
prepare the rifle for firing.
UNLOADING —
After firing, or in order to remove a cartridge, swing
the lever down. As the lever swings forward the breech
block and the hammer move down in the receiver. At
the end of the lever cycle, the cartridge is extracted or
ejected, depending on the model. Flick away the
empty or grasp the loaded cartridge if unloading.
SHELL DEFLECTOR
(ONLY ON MODELS WITH AN EJECTOR SYSTEM)
As a shell is ejected, it will strike the shell deflector.

The deflector is found at the back of the receiver
behind the hammer (Figures 9 and 10). It is
15
FIGURE 9
Shell deflector
Deflector in
“deflect to right”
position
F I G U R E 10
Deflector in “catch” position
(retains cartridge)
adjustable for different deflections depending on your

needs. With a screw driver, rotate the deflector to
one of the click-stop positions. The deflector may be
positioned in a diagonal position to the left or right,
deflecting the shell to the left or right respectively,
and clearing the stock. To avoid ejecting the shell
straight back, always keep the deflector in the right,
left or retained position.
TRIGGER
The trigger of the Winchester Model 1885 is adjusted
at the factory. The trigger pull can be adjusted in a
range of approximately 31⁄2 pounds to over 5 pounds
by using a small screwdriver (Figure 11). Clockwise
rotation decreases the pull weight to a minimum of
approximately 31⁄2 pounds. Counterclockwise rotation
increases the trigger pull to a maximum of approxi-
mately 5 pounds. If the trigger pull force adjustment
is increased too far, the trigger system becomes inop-
16
erative. Should this happen, merely back off the

adjustment until the mechanism is again operative.
WARNING: NEVER TAMPER WITH THE
TRIGGER PULL ADJUSTMENT MECHANISM
IN ORDER TO ALTER THE MINIMUM
SETTING OF THIS OR ANY OTHER
FIREARM'S TRIGGER PULL.
NEVER ATTEMPT IN ANY WAY TO MODIFY
OR ALTER SEAR ENGAGEMENT OR ANY
OTHER TRIGGER ASSEMBLY COMPONENT.
IN THE CASE OF A MISFIRE

Only rarely will modern factory ammunition experience
a misfire. If this ever happens to you when shooting your
Model 1885 please follow these instructions carefully.
CAUTION: IN CASE OF MISFIRE, KEEP THE
BARREL POINTED IN A SAFE DIRECTION
AND CAREFULLY OPEN THE ACTION
WHILE AVOIDING DIRECT EXPOSURE TO
THE BREECH BY YOURSELF AND OTHERS.
F I G U R E 11
Use a small
screwdriver to
adjust the trigger
pull
Clockwise
decreases pull,
counterclockwise
increases pull
17
Carefully inspect the extracted cartridge. If the

primer is indented, the cartridge should be disposed
of in a manner that would prevent accidental injury
to you or others.
If there is no indentation, your gun has malfunctioned
and should be serviced by a qualified gunsmith. If the
gun is under warranty, it must be serviced by a
Winchester Firearms Authorized Repair Center
(ARC), which you can locate on our website at
www.winchesterguns.com.
FIRING PROCEDURES
IMPORTANT: WHEN YOU ARE PREPARING
TO SHOOT, IT IS ALWAYS ESSENTIAL
THAT YOU BE TOTALLY SURE OF YOUR
TARGET. ALWAYS BE AWARE OF ALL
OBJECTS BEHIND YOUR TARGET. KNOW
THE EXACT LOCATION OF PERSONS
WITH YOU AND ANY OTHERS IN YOUR
VICINITY. PICK YOUR TARGET WISELY
AND CAREFULLY.
Begin with a loaded cartridge in the chamber, the
hammer in the half cock position and your finger off
the trigger:
F I G U R E 12
Firmly position your thumb on

the hammer and carefully pull
back to the cocked position
18
1. Firmly position your thumb on the hammer and

draw the hammer back to the full cock position
(Figure 12).
YOUR RIFLE IS NOW READY TO FIRE.
2. Firmly shoulder your gun, take aim and when on
target pull the trigger smoothly, without jerking.
TO LOAD ANOTHER ROUND FOR THE NEXT SHOT —
1. Swing the finger lever fully down, extracting or

ejecting the fired cartridge case from the chamber on
the ejector models. As it is ejected, it will strike the
shell deflector. (Figures 9 and 10).
2. Insert another round fully into the chamber.
3. Close the action by returning the lever upward.
The closing of the action will leave the hammer in a
cocked “ready-to-fire” position.
4. WHEN FIRING IS COMPLETED OR WHEN
SHOOTING IS NO LONGER IMMINENT,
IMMEDIATELY RETURN THE HAMMER TO
THE HALF COCK POSITION.
IMPORTANT: UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES
SHOULD YOU MOVE ON OR CONTINUE TO
HUNT WITH YOUR HAMMER IN THE FULL
COCK, FIRE POSITION.
SIGHT ADJUSTMENTS
OPEN SIGHT ADJUSTMENT —
All Model 1885 rifles are fitted with open sights.

The style and adjustment system may vary.
The proper procedure is to shoot a group with the
sights set as they come from the factory (intermediate
position on both elevation and windage), and then
make incremental adjustments to move the sight
blade and elevator to position the group on your target.
The procedures below are for the type of open sights
19
F I G U R E 13
Lift up on the notch

holder and move the
elevator forward or
rearward with your
fingers
found on current Model 1885 rifles.

BEFORE MAKING ANY SIGHT ADJUST-
MENTS, MAKE SURE YOUR RIFLE IS
FULLY UNLOADED AND THE ACTION
IS OPEN.
UP OR DOWN ELEVATION ADJUSTMENTS —
Adjusting elevation on your Model 1885 requires you

to lift up the rear sight blade on your rifle’s rear sight
with your fingers and move the notched elevator
either forward or backward (Figure 13). To raise
point of impact, use your fingers to lift up on the
blade and slide the elevator rearward. Adjusting
the sight to make your gun shoot lower is just the
opposite — move the elevator forward. Remember:
• Move the blade up to shoot higher.
• Move the blade down to shoot lower.
RIGHT OR LEFT WINDAGE ADJUSTMENTS —
On most Model 1885 sights, the entire rear sight is
20
F I G U R E 14
Tap carefully
(Do not mar the
barrel or sight)
dovetailed in the barrel. To adjust for windage,

gently move the rear sight to the right or left by
tapping at the dovetail using a wood or fiber dowel or
hammer that will not mar the sight (Figure 14).
If you tap to the right your gun will shoot more to the
right. Moving the rear sight to the left is just as easily
done. Note how much you adjust the sight as you
sight-in your Model 1885. Remember:
• Move the rear sight to the right to shoot farther
to the right on the target.
• Move the rear sight to the left to shoot farther
to the left on the target.
Care should be taken not to mar the finish or bend
sight components when adjustments are made.
The front sight bead is also held in a dovetail on the
barrel. It is possible to make windage adjustments by
tapping it to one side or the other, just like the rear
sight. Remember, when adjusting the front sight you
get the opposite results: move to the right and you
shoot more to the left, move the bead to the left and
you’ll shoot more to the right.
21
F I G U R E 15
Height adjustment
knob
Windage
knob
All sight adjustments — of course — are a matter of

trial and error. Remember, it is usually necessary to
reset your sights when you change type or even brand
of ammunition.
Front and rear sight dovetails should be snug.
SIGHT PICTURE —
The correct sight picture for the sights on your Model

1885 is with the front bead resting in the U-shaped
notch in the sight blade. The bead itself should rest
directly under the point of impact (Figure 16).
For example, if you were shooting a conventional
small bore target, the round, black bull’s-eye would
appear to rest on top of the front bead.
SCOPE MOUNT / SIGHTS —
Some Winchester Model 1885 rifles are drilled

and tapped for scope mounts. See your Winchester
firearms dealer to purchase the scope mount base and
rings appropriate for your Model 1885. The rear tang
is drilled and tapped to accept a tang-mounted peep
sight (included with some models). A variety of
sights are available from major sight manufacturers.
22
F I G U R E 16
Correct sight picture
Target's
Bead
bull's-eye
Notch
REAR TANG PEEP SIGHT ADJUSTMENT —
Certain models of the 1885 have a rear-tang peep

sight. This sight is highly accurate and adjustable for
windage and elevation.
Simply raise the sight into position. Turn the knurled
knob on the height adjustment clockwise to raise the
sight, or shoot higher (Figure 13). Turn counter-
clockwise to lower the sight or to shoot lower.
Turn the windage knob located on the right side of
the sight (Figure 13), away from you or clockwise to
adjust the point of impact to the right. Turn the
knob towards you or counterclockwise to adjust the
point of impact to the left.
Each click on both height and windage is equal to
1/2 minute of angle.
HAMMER EXTENSION
Hammer extensions are not recommend for use with
the Winchester Model 1885 single shot. Using one
may cause misfires.
CLEANING AND
MAINTENANCE SUGGESTIONS
The Model 1885 will function better and more
23
reliably over a longer period of time if it is properly

maintained and kept clean.
BEFORE PERFORMING ANY CLEANING
PROCEDURES, ALWAYS MAKE CERTAIN
THERE IS NO CARTRIDGE IN THE CHAM-
BER. ALWAYS OPEN THE ACTION WHEN
CLEANING AND MAINTAINING YOUR
MODEL1885.
You should clean your Model 1885 after every day
of shooting and more often if it becomes excessively
dirty. A minimum cleaning includes wiping down the
action and oiling key parts. Most regular maintenance
will also include cleaning the barrel. If you encounter
a function problem (tight action when working the
lever), be sure to give your gun a thorough cleaning to
see if it solves the problem before seeking the services
of one of our Authorized Repair Centers, our service
facility or a competent gunsmith.
To clean your firearm, follow the general outline below:
CLEANING PROCEDURES —
BE CERTAIN YOUR GUN’S CHAMBER IS

UNLOADED. ALWAYS WEAR PROTECTIVE
SAFETY GLASSES DURING ALL CLEANING
PROCEDURES. KEEP AMMUNITION AWAY
FROM THE CLEANING AREA. DO NOT
TEST THE FUNCTION OF YOUR FIREARM
WITH LIVE AMMUNITION.
ALWAYS OPEN THE ACTION FULLY
BEFORE BEGINNING ANY CLEANING
PROCEDURE.
1. Use a cleaning rod with a tip and patch suitable for
the bore diameter of your rifle. Make sure the patch is
large enough for a snug fit in the bore.
24
Insert the rod and patch into the barrel at the breech
end and run it back and forth several times. If clean-
ing is performed from the muzzle end, always use a
crown protector. Be careful not to strike the crown of
the muzzle with the handle end of the rod. Damage to
this area can affect the accuracy of the rifle.
2. Inspect the chamber and bore for brass, copper and
powder fouling. A normal amount of powder residue
can be expected and is not serious. It can usually be
removed by repeating step one, using a patch saturated
with solvent. If or when fouling should become
heavy, it can be removed with a brass bore brush.
Dip or spray the brush with solvent and scrub the
chamber and bore until the fouling is removed. To
prevent brass bristles from breaking off, the brush
should be pushed completely through the bore before
being withdrawn. If cast lead bullets are used a lead
solvent may be used as well to fully clean the bore.
Follow the instructions on all solvents and cleaners.
3. After fouling has been removed the bore should be
wiped dry. Then pass a slightly oiled patch through
the bore, for preservation. A fine, light gun oil is
recommended.
4. Wipe all exposed metal surfaces of the receiver,
forearm and barrel with a clean rag. Finger marks
should be removed because they provide a place
where moisture can accumulate. Any dried oil in the
receiver area should also be removed.
5. Then lightly oil your gun at the points described
under “Initial Cleaning” on page 10 of this manual.
Ordinary good judgment will, of course, indicate that
the metal of the gun should receive a light film of oil
any time the rifle has been exposed to weather or
handling. Remember, the polished, finely fitted
surfaces of the receiver and action mechanisms must
always have a thin film of oil. Make sure that the
surfaces of the breech block, lever components and
extractor mechanism parts are especially clean and
lightly oiled with a high quality gun oil. Do not use
pure silicone or lanolin.
25
6. INSPECT THE BARREL AND CHAMBER.

TO MAKE CERTAIN THAT NO PATCHES
HAVE BEEN INADVERTENTLY LEFT IN
THEM. REMOVE ANY THAT REMAIN.
7. Wipe all wood surfaces.
8. When transporting only, store your Model 1885
in a quality protective case to prevent scratches and
dents. Store in a dry place to prevent corrosion.
Store away from children. MAKE SURE YOUR
GUN IS UNLOADED AND ALWAYS STORE
AMMUNITION SEPARATELY.
OTHER CLEANING SUGGESTIONS —
• Never pour large quantities of oil into the receiver

or other parts. It can drain down to the wood and
soften it — and cause permanent damage and loosen-
ing of the stock.
• After extended periods of heavy use, your gun
should be taken to one of our Authorized Repair
Centers or a qualified gunsmith to have the action
disassembled for professional cleaning and lubrication.
NEVER ATTEMPT TO TAKE YOUR MODEL
1885 APART FURTHER THAN EXPLAINED
IN THIS MANUAL.
This is a specialized, finely fitted mechanism. You
may permanently mar it by attempting to disassemble
the inner mechanism assemblies. If further disassem-
bly for service or cleaning is required, take your gun
to a Winchester Firearms Authorized Repair Center
or a competent gunsmith as explained under “Service
or Repair.”
PARTS, SERVICE, REPAIR & QUESTIONS

If your Winchester rifle or shotgun should ever need
service or repair, it is often best to utilize one of our
Authorized Service Centers. In some cases it is
appropriate to use the Winchester Service Center in
26
Arnold, MO. A list of Authorized Service Centers

was included with your new firearm. If you need a
new listing, call us. We can help you determine the
best place to service your firearm.
In order to avoid delays it is important to never send
your gun directly to our facility without direct autho-
rization from one of our service specialists. This
avoids possible delays in obtaining service. Call us for
details on how to receive service first, before sending
your gun.
Parts listings, Service Center lists, service procedures
and general product information are also found on
the web at: www.winchesterguns.com.
GENERAL PRODUCT AND HISTORICAL QUESTIONS —

Morgan, UT 84050-9333
1-800-945-5237 (toll free)
PARTS, SERVICE, REPAIR STATUS AND TECHNICAL

QUESTIONS —
Winchester Rifles and Shotguns Parts & Service

3005 Arnold Tenbrook Road
Arnold, MO 83010-9406
1-800-322-4626 (toll free)
CAUTION: PARTS ARE MADE FOR

WINCHESTER BRAND GUNS MANUFAC-
TURED BY OR FOR U.S. REPEATING
ARMS COMPANY, INC., AND SHOULD NOT
BE USED IN OTHER GUNS EVEN THOUGH
MODELS MAY BE SIMILAR. IMPROPERLY
FITTED PARTS MAY BE DANGEROUS.
27
You Are Responsible For Firearms Safety
As a gun owner, you accept a set of demanding responsibilities. How seriously you take these
responsibilities can mean the difference between life and death. Failure to follow any of these
instructions can cause extensive damage to your gun and/or possible serious injury or death to
yourself and others. There is no excuse for careless or abusive handling of any firearm. At all
times handle any firearm with intense respect for its power and potential danger.
PLEASE READ AND UNDERSTAND ALL OF THE CAUTIONS, PROPER HANDLING PROCEDURES
AND INSTRUCTIONS OUTLINED IN THE OWNER’S MANUAL BEFORE USING YOUR NEW
FIREARM.
1. ALWAYS KEEP THE MUZZLE OF YOUR RIFLE POINTED IN A SAFE DIRECTION, even
though you are certain that the rifle is unloaded. Never point any firearm at anything you
do not intend to shoot. Be extremely alert and aware of all persons and property within
the range of your ammunition.
2. NEVER RELY TOTALLY ON YOUR RIFLE'S MECHANICAL "SAFETY" DEVICE. The word
"safety" describes a gun's trigger block mechanism, sear block mechanism, hammer
block mechanism or firing pin block mechanism. These mechanical devices are designed
to place your gun in a SAFER status. No guarantee can be made that the gun will not fire
even if the "safety" is in the "on safe" position. See "Operations of the Safety" for
instructions on operation of YOUR gun's "safety."
LIKE ANY MECHANICAL DEVICE, A "SAFETY" CAN SOMETIMES FAIL; IT CAN BE
JARRED OR INADVERTENTLY MANIPULATED INTO AN UNSAFE CONDITION.
Mechanical "safeties" merely aid safe gun handling and are no excuse for pointing your
rifle's muzzle in an unsafe direction.
While it is a good idea to "test" your rifle's mechanical "safeties" periodically for proper
function, NEVER TEST IT WHILE YOUR RIFLE IS LOADED OR POINTED IN AN UNSAFE
DIRECTION
Safe gun handling does not stop with your gun's mechanical "safety devices -- it starts
there. Always treat your rifle with the respect due a loaded, ready-to-fire firearm.
3. WHENEVER YOU HANDLE A FIREARM, OR HAND IT TO SOMEONE, ALWAYS OPEN THE

ACTION IMMEDIATELY, VISUALLY CHECK YOUR RIFLE'S CHAMBER, FEED MECHANISM
AND MAGAZINE.
Make certain they do not inadvertently contain any ammunition. Always keep the
chamber empty and "safety" in the "on safe" position unless shooting is imminent.
4. DO NOT TRANSPORT YOUR RIFLE LOADED, WHETHER IN A SCABBARD, GUN CASE, OR

OTHER CONTAINER.
5. HUNTING FROM ELEVATED SURFACES SUCH AS TREE STANDS IS DANGEROUS, and

may increase the risk of handling a firearm. The following rules should always be
observed by you and those you hunt with: Always make certain that the stand being used
is safe and stable. Always make certain that your firearm is unloaded when it is being
taken up to and down from the stand. Always make certain that your firearm is not
dropped from the stand, or dropped while it is being taken up to or down from the stand.
Remember, a loaded firearm may discharge when dropped, even with the safety in the
"on safe" position.
6. BEWARE OF BARREL OBSTRUCTIONS, for the safety of both your gun and yourself.
Mud, snow, and an infinite variety of other obstructions may inadvertently lodge in a
barrel bore. It takes only one small obstruction to cause dangerously increased pressures
that can ruin (swell or rupture) the finest rifle barrels.
BEFORE CHECKING FOR A BARREL OBSTRUCTION, BE CERTAIN NO LIVE ROUND IS IN
THE CHAMBER AND THAT THE MAGAZINE IS REMOVED AND FEED MECHANISMS ARE
COMPLETELY EMPTY. PLACE THE "SAFETY" IN THE "ON SAFE" POSITION.
Look through the barrel to be sure it is clear of any obstruction. If an obstruction is seen,
no matter how small it may be, clean the bore with a cleaning rod and patch as described
in "Cleaning and Maintenance Suggestions." Before the first firing, clean the bore
with a cleaning rod and patch, and wipe away any anti-rust compound in the
action/chamber areas.
7. ALWAYS UNLOAD YOUR RIFLE WHEN NOT IN USE. REFER TO "UNLOADING THE RIFLE"
FOR AN EXPLANATION OF HOW TO UNLOAD YOUR RIFLE PROPERLY.
As a safety precaution, it is preferable to disassemble your gun for storage. Store your
gun and ammunition separately -- well beyond the reach of children. Take all safeguards
to ensure your rifle does not become available to untrained, inexperienced or unwelcome
hands.
8. USE THE PROPER AMMUNITION.

The barrel and action of this rifle have been made with substantial safety margins over
the pressures developed by established American commercial loads. Nevertheless,
Browning assumes no liability for incidents which occur through the use of cartridges of
nonstandard dimensions which develop pressures in excess of commercially available
ammunition with standards established by the Sporting Arms and Ammunitions
Manufacturers' Institute (SAAMI).
BE ALERT TO THE SIGNS OF AMMUNITION MALFUNCTION.
If you detect an off sound or light recoil when a cartridge s fired, DO NOT LOAD
ANOTHER CARTRIDGE INTO THE CHAMBER. Open the action and remove all cartridges
from the magazine, chamber and action areas. With the action open, glance down the
barrel to make sure that an obstruction does not remain in the barrel. If there is an
obstruction, completely clear the barrel before loading and firing again. Failure to follow
these instructions can cause extensive damage to your gun and possible serious injury to
yourself and others.
MAKE SURE OF ADEQUATE VENTILATION IN THE AREA THAT YOU DISCHARGE A
FIREARM. WASH HANDS THOROUGHLY AFTER EXPOSURE TO AMMUNITION OR
CLEANING A FIREARM.
Lead exposure can be obtained from discharging firearms in poorly ventilated areas,
cleaning firearms or handling ammunition. Lead is a substance that has been known to
cause birth defects, reproductive harm and other serious injury.
9. DO NOT SNAP THE FIRING PIN ON AN EMPTY CHAMBER -- THE CHAMBER MAY NOT BE
EMPTY!
Treat every gun with the respect due a loaded gun, even though you are certain the gun is
unloaded.
10. KEEP FINGERS AWAY FROM THE TRIGGER WHILE UNLOADING, LOADING, UNTIL YOU
ARE READY TO SHOOT.
11. BE SURE OF YOUR TARGET AND BACKSTOP.
Particularly during low light periods. Know the range of your ammunition. Never shoot
at water or hard object.
12. ALWAYS UNLOAD YOUR RIFLE'S CHAMBER BEFORE CROSSING A FENCE, CLIMBING A
TREE, JUMPING A DITCH OR NEGOTIATING OTHER OBSTACLES.
Refer to "Unloading The Rifle" for instructions on the unloading of your rifle. Never
place your loaded rifle on or against a fence, tree, car or other similar object.
13. WEAR EYE AND EAR PROTECTION WHEN SHOOTING.

Unprotected, repeated exposure to gunfire can cause hearing damage. Wear ear protectors
(shooting ear plugs or muffs) to guard against such damage. Wear shooting glasses to
protect your eyes from flying particles. Allow proper distance (eye relief) between the
scope and your eye when firing a scoped rifle or shotgun. Always keep a safe distance
between the muzzle of your firearm and any persons nearby, as muzzle blast, debris and
ejecting shells could inflict serious injury. Also, wear eye protection when disassembling
and cleaning your shotgun to prevent the possibility of springs, spring-tensioned parts,
solvent or other agents from contacting your eyes.
14. DROPPING A LOADED GUN CAN CAUSE AN ACCIDENTAL DISCHARGE even with the
"safety" in the "on safe" position. Be extremely careful while hunting or during any
shooting activity, to avoid dropping any firearm.
15. IF YOUR RIFLE FAILS TO FIRE, KEEP THE MUZZLE POINTED IN A SAFE DIRECTION.
Hold this position for a minimum of 30 seconds. Carefully open the action and remove
the cartridge. If the primer is indented, the cartridge should be disposed of in a way that
cannot cause harm. If the primer is not indented, your firearm should be examined by a
qualified gunsmith and the cause of the malfunction should be corrected before further
use.
16. BE DEFENSIVE AND ON GUARD AGAINST UNSAFE GUN HANDLING AROUND YOU AND
OTHERS.
Don't be timid when it comes to gun safety. If you observe other shooters violating any of
these safety precautions, politely suggest safer handling practices.
17. BE CERTAIN YOUR RIFLE IS UNLOADED BEFORE CLEANING. Because so many gun
accidents occur when a firearm is being cleaned, special and extreme care should be
taken to be sure your gun is unloaded before disassembly, cleaning and reassembly. Keep
ammunition away from the cleaning location. Never test the mechanical function of any
firearm with live ammunition.
18. TEACH AND SUPERVISE FIREARMS SAFETY TO ALL MEMBERS OF YOUR FAMILY --
ESPECIALLY TO CHILDREN AND NONSHOOTERS.
Closely supervise newcomers to the shooting sports. Encourage enrolling in
hunting/shooting safety courses.
19. NEVER DRINK ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES OR TAKE ANY TYPE OF DRUGS BEFORE OR
DURING SHOOTING.
Your vision and judgment could be dangerously impaired, making your gun handling
unsafe to you and to others.
20. READ AND HEED ALL WARNINGS in this instruction book, on ammunition boxes and
with all accessories that you install on your firearm. It is your responsibility to secure the
most up-to-date information on the safe handling procedures of your Browning gun.
Browning assumes no liability for incidents which occur when unsafe or improper gun
accessories or ammunition combinations are used.
21. PERIODIC MAINTENANCE -- AVOID UNAUTHORIZED SERVICING.

Your rifle is a mechanical device which will not last forever, and as such, is subject to
wear and requires periodic inspection, adjustment and service. Browning firearms should
be serviced by a Browning Recommended Service Center or by Browning's service
facility in Arnold, Missouri. Browning cannot assume any responsibility for injuries
suffered or caused by unauthorized servicing, alterations or modifications of Browning
firearms.
22. BROWNING RESERVES THE RIGHT TO REFUSE SERVICE ON FIREARMS THAT HAVE
BEEN ALTERED, ADDED TO OR SUBSTANTIALLY CHANGED.
Removal of metal from barrel(s), or modification of the firing mechanism and/or
operating parts may lead to Browning's refusal of service on such firearms. Browning
will charge the owner parts and labor to return the firearm to original Browning
specifications.
DO NOT, UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES, ALTER THE TRIGGER, SAFETY OR PARTS OF
THE FIRING MECHANISM OF THIS OR ANY OTHER FIREARM. FAILURE TO OBEY THIS
WARNING MAY RESULT IN INJURY OR DEATH TO YOURSELF OR OTHERS.
BE CAREFUL!
WINCHESTERGUNS.COM
U.S. Repeating Arms Company offers an informa-
tion resource for you on the world wide web.
• List of authorized repair centers.
• Customer service information.
• Answers to many technical and historical questions.
• Links to helpful sites.
• Visit www.winchesterguns.com
28
NOTES
29
Licensee

Morgan, UT, USA 84050-9333
www.winchesterguns.com

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03-101_WFA_1885 Centerfire 7/17/03 11:16 AM Page 1

MODEL 1885SINGLE SHOT,

As one of the Classic Traditions models you can expect

275 Winchester Avenue

Winchester trademarks licensed from Olin Corporation

Important instructions for

Winchester Model 1885

Customer Service Department

If you have any questions or comments regarding

Serial Number ______________________________

Purchased From _____________________________

Date of Purchase _____________________________

Winchester trademarks licensed from Olin Corporation

GUN SAFETY WARNINGS

pressure and possible serious personal injury.

14. Never alter any parts of your gun. Any alter-

the Model 1885 design. After reading the warnings

TERMINOLOGY AND DESCRIPTIONS

MODEL 1885, FEATURES

After more than 70 years, the Winchester Model

Drilled and tapped for

The massive breech block design

Traditional open sights

A special internal hanger system

The hammer actually drops down,

Rear Sight Barrel Front Sight

DISCHARGING FIREARMS IN POORLY

Record your serial number

OPERATION OF THE HAMMER

FULL COCK POSITION —

The hammer is all the way to the rear (Figure 4). At

HALF COCK POSITION —

The half cock notch on the hammer is a safety

Full Cock (fire) position

from the thumb while the rifle is being cocked

DROPPED OR FIRED POSITION —

The dropped-hammer position is the position of the

LOWERING THE HAMMER TO HALF COCK —

Always make certain when lowering the hammer

Half cock (safe) position

This is the correct

the firing pin so that your thumb can act as a cushion

LEVER OPEN POSITION —

Whenever possible, the lever should be lowered down

This is the position

When shooting at ranges, and at many other times,

GENERAL OPERATING PROCEDURES

To load your Model 1885 swing the lever down and

habit of pushing the cartridge all the way into the

As a shell is ejected, it will strike the shell deflector.

adjustable for different deflections depending on your

erative. Should this happen, merely back off the

IN THE CASE OF A MISFIRE

Carefully inspect the extracted cartridge. If the

Firmly position your thumb on

1. Firmly position your thumb on the hammer and

TO LOAD ANOTHER ROUND FOR THE NEXT SHOT —

1. Swing the finger lever fully down, extracting or

OPEN SIGHT ADJUSTMENT —