Winchester 1895 405 WCF

JD338 · Jan 16, 2011

I had the prevlidge to shoot a Winchester 1895 405 Winchester. All I can say is Wow! This rifle was gorgous! Set up with a peep sight and a high mounted front sight. The owner of this rifle told me that he is friends with Craig Bodingham and that when he showed this fine rifle to him, Craig Bodington said, "Its perfect for Lion"!
I was shown how to load it and the action was slick as glass. The rifle fit me well, (too well for that matter) and when I shot it, I knew instantly why President Teddy Roosevelt refered to the 1895 405 WFC as his "Big Medicne" rifle. It has some serious authority!

I sure hope the owner will join us soon here and share more details.
What a rifle and what a cartridge, the 405 WInchester is impressive.

JD338

DrMike · Jan 16, 2011

Sold a matched set (one serial number difference) to a husband and wife about a month ago or so. They just love it. I've never shot one, though. I do believe it would put the hurt on a lion.

Guy Miner · Jan 16, 2011

Much respect here for the legacy of the 1895 & .405 WCF...

Would love to spend some time at the range & afield with one.

SJB358 · Jan 16, 2011

They are some very nice rifles. Very ahead of their time with the ability to use spitzers. I love reading Mr Roosevelts books on hunting. That 1895 and 405 is like the Marlin and 45-70, just works really well. Scotty

Elkman · Jan 17, 2011

Yup we have spent well over 100 years finding out what our ancestors already new about Big Bores. The .375 was introduced in 1912, and the 450 NE was introduced in 1898. In addition we have the 45-70, 90,100,120 all over a hundred years old. Sometimes when I have free time I wonder?????????????? :roll: :roll:

JD338 · Jan 17, 2011

Elkman,

I have to agree with you. I just picked up a 45-70 a couple years ago and all I can say is that I have really missed out!

JD338

onesonek · Jan 18, 2011

I'd love to have a "95" .405!!! Unfortunately the wallet says,,,nota chance (at least for now).
Bout what I can swing is a Encore barrel chambered for the .405,,, which I have been kicking around some. It would fit nicely between my 9.3x74R and .45-70,,,,not that those 2 wouldn't cover most any need I would have. But a 350 gr. cast .001-2" under bore, then Paper Patched to groove would be a hoot to play with.

Dave