According to factory records, this 1886 "Life Line" shipped September 20, 1918, to Wm. Read & Sons of Boston, Massachusetts, as a 14 - 1/2" smoothbore chambered in .45-70 with half-length magazine. This rare rifle remains in the specified configuration and is one of just 497 line-throwing 1886 rifles manufactured by Winchester. See page 324 of Madis's "The Winchester Book" for a nearly identical example, just 3 serial numbers away from this gun. These line throwing guns served as rescue apparatus with the US Coast Guard. This example is finished in full blue. No provision for a front sight, the rear dovetail left empty. Stocks are plain walnut with steel nose cap and crescent rifle butt plate. A brass projectile with an attached section of line, a sealed 1943 dated 20-round box of Western Line Throwing blanks, and a sealed 25-round box of Western black powder blanks accompany this lot. Documentation includes a copy of a 1986 dated factory letter, recent factory research, and a detailed ATF exemption letter. CONDITION: Fair. Significant traces of faded blue finish are retained on the barrel, the balance thinning to gray patina with cleaned pinprick oxidation. Barrel appears to have been in a vice at some point. Stocks have been sanded with an added coat of varnish. Lightly frosted bore. Crisp mechanics. A very rare and interesting Winchester variant with period accessories. Accessories: 2 boxes of .45-70 blanks Barrel Length: 14 - 1/2" Caliber/Bore: .45-70 Smoothbore FFL Status: Curio & Relic Manufacturer: Winchester Model: 1886 Paperwork: Copy of Factory Letter, Factory Research Serial Number: 153775