Winchester 1885 Hunter Rimfire .17 HMR Falling Block Rifle Stain

The Winchester 1885 Hunter Rimfire in .17 HMR is a single-shot falling-block rifle built on one of John Moses Browning's most enduring designs. This isn't a modern tactical platform—it's a precision instrument that demands respect and rewards careful marksmanship. If you shoot varmints, small game, or simply enjoy the meditative discipline of one-shot-one-kill hunting, the 1885's falling-block action, free-floating forearm, and traditional open sights combine to deliver accuracy that's earned a reputation over more than a century.

The .17 HMR chambering makes this rifle an excellent choice for rimfire hunters pursuing rabbits, prairie dogs, coyotes, and similar game where flat trajectory and minimal recoil matter. The 24-inch barrel balances handling in the field with the velocity advantage of a longer tube. The stout breech block design and crisp adjustable trigger are engineered for precision—you'll feel the difference when you press the trigger. Dressed in satin-checkered walnut with brass bead and semi-buckhorn sights, the 1885 looks and handles like the classic it is, while the drilled-and-tapped receiver accepts modern scope bases for hunters who want optical assistance.

At 7 lbs 8 oz, the 1885 carries comfortably to your stand or across open country. The falling-block mechanism is straightforward and utterly reliable—no springs, no gas tubes, no complexity. The hammer drops clear when the lever cycles forward, making loading and unloading fast and convenient. Whether you're a purist drawn to simple, honest rifle design or a hunter who values accuracy over firepower, the Winchester 1885 delivers the kind of rifle discipline that separates serious shooters from the casual crowd.

Key Features

• Falling-block single-shot action—simple, strong, and inherently accurate
• Free-floating forearm ensures consistent accuracy without contact interference
• Crisp, adjustable trigger for clean breaks
• 24-inch precision barrel in .17 HMR for varmint and small-game hunting
• Traditional open sights (brass bead and semi-buckhorn) with drilled-and-tapped receiver for scope mounting
• Satin-checkered walnut stock and fore-end for classic handling and appearance
• Falling hammer design clears the action when lever is cycled
• Three-position hammer (dropped, half-cock, full-cock) with safety integration

Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Winchester 1885 .17 HMR drilled and tapped for a scope?

Yes. The receiver is factory drilled and tapped for scope bases, so you can mount an optic if you prefer glass over the open sights while maintaining the rifle's classic profile.

What is the .17 HMR best suited for?

The .17 HMR is a rimfire cartridge ideal for varmint and small-game hunting—rabbits, prairie dogs, coyotes, and similar game where minimal recoil and precision matter. It's not a centerfire rifle and should not be used for large game.

Does the 1885 come with open sights?

Yes, it features a brass bead front sight and semi-buckhorn rear sight. These are fully functional iron sights, though the receiver can be drilled and tapped to add a scope if desired.

Why choose a single-shot rifle like the 1885?

Single-shot rifles like the 1885 reward marksmanship and planning. The falling-block action is inherently accurate, the trigger is crisp, and the design encourages the discipline of one-shot-one-kill hunting. It's also simpler and more reliable than repeating actions, with fewer moving parts to maintain.