Taylors & Company 1866 Sporting 38Spl 24.25 Oct Bbl

The Taylors & Company 1866 Sporting Rifle in .38 Special brings authentic Old West handling to modern shooting. Built on the frame design of the famous Winchester Model 1866, this lever-action rifle delivers smooth, reliable cycling and nostalgic appeal whether you're plinking at the range, hunting varmints, or simply enjoying a piece of firearms history. The 24.25-inch octagonal barrel is a signature feature that looks the part and delivers the ballistics you'd expect from the caliber—classic lines that work as well today as they did a century ago.

This rifle weighs 8.2 lbs and measures 43.25 inches overall, making it reasonably handheld without sacrificing sight radius or control. The walnut straight-grip stock and forged brass receiver give it authentic character, while the blue barrel finish protects against corrosion during field use. Adjustable rear and front blade sights come ready to go, so you can shoot it right out of the box; the platform is also friendly to aftermarket optics if you want to modernize it. With a 13-round capacity in .38 Special, you've got enough rounds downrange to make a day at the range productive or to handle a hunting scenario with confidence.

Lever-action rifles appeal to hunters, historical shooters, and anyone who values smooth manual operation and iconic design. The .38 Special chambering keeps recoil manageable, making it a good option for shooters of varying experience levels or those who prefer reduced muzzle blast. If you're drawn to the 1866 platform and want a rifle that looks and feels like the real thing, this Taylors & Company model delivers authenticity and function in one package.

Key Features

• Authentic Model 1866 lever-action design with octagonal barrel profile
• Chambered in .38 Special for mild recoil and economical practice and hunting
• 13-round capacity for extended shooting sessions
• Blue barrel finish with forged brass receiver for classic aesthetics and corrosion resistance
• Adjustable rear sight and front blade sight, ready to aim immediately
• Walnut straight-grip stock for traditional handling and comfort
• Lightweight at 8.2 lbs for field portability

Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the .38 Special cartridge suitable for?

.38 Special is a moderate-velocity handgun cartridge that, when fired from a rifle barrel, delivers reduced recoil and noise compared to larger centerfire rifle rounds. It's commonly used for target practice, small-game hunting, and recreational shooting. The longer rifle barrel will develop slightly higher velocity than the same round fired from a handgun.

Can I mount an optic or scope on this rifle?

The rifle comes equipped with adjustable rear and front blade sights that work right out of the box. The 1866 platform is compatible with many aftermarket mount options if you choose to add a modern optic, though you'll want to verify compatibility with a gunsmith or the manufacturer before purchasing.

Is this rifle good for hunting?

Yes. The .38 Special from a rifle is suitable for hunting small game and varmints. The 13-round capacity, lightweight handling, and mild recoil make it practical in the field, and the adjustable sights allow you to zero it for your hunting distance and load.

What does "Model 1866" mean?

The 1866 refers to the historic Winchester Model 1866 lever-action rifle design. Taylors & Company manufactures reproductions that honor that classic profile and operation—it's one of the most recognizable rifle designs in American sporting history. This rifle captures that authentic look and feel.