[RCRBanjo]

Anyone know if the Browning/Miroku loading gate will interchange with an original Winchester 1886? Better yet, does someone have an original loading gate lying around, maybe under the bed, or fell off a truck?

 

[RCRBanjo]

Guess I can answer my own question here. I tried fleabay and other auction sights w/o much success. Every once in awhile a loading gate is listed but they go for exorbitant prices, even though usually pitted or reblued, etc. I finally bit the bullet and ordered a new Miroku manufactured assembly that Browning says fits their Model 71 or 1886. Lo! It fits almost perfectly. I'll do a little milling but am very happy and my 1886 project gun is coming along just fine and will be a good shooter. Caliber .38-56. FYI.

 

[Stephan]

I've wondered myself just how close a copy the Browning 1886 was of the period Winchester product.

I bought myself one of the Browning 1886 saddle-ring carbines they were selling in the 1980's/90's and it seems a superb rifle so far...couldn't be more pleased.