Krag Collectors Association Forum

I am looking at buying a new Winchester Model 1895 High Grade in 30-40 Krag — What are the thoughts on the quality in today’s production in Japan?

In the late 1970's, I acquired two Browning model B-78, "High Wall" single-shot rifles, in .45-70 and .30-06 calibers.
The rifles were built by Miroku in Japan; the interior barrel finish was amazing.
I found the rifles to have wonderful accuracy and they were incredibly easy to clean.
After a dozen years, the single-shot Brownings were no longer getting used and were traded off.

Also, years ago, I traded for a new (bargain priced) model 1895 sporter, chambered in .270 Winchester caliber.
The 'lever-gun' was marked and sold by "Winchester", but built for them in Japan.
Rifle quality and accuracy was very good. I just really had no desire or practical use for a .270, with iron sights, and sold it for a profit.

I have no experience using a model 1895 "Winchester" of current production.
But based on past experience, I would expect a current Japanese Winchester copy to be a nice performer.
If the sight configuration, 'sliding tang-safety', butt-plate style, and wood is to your liking, a recently produced Japanese "Winchester" should be a prized rifle and fine performer.

Thank you for the feedback. I may pull the trigger.

Whoops! You look at the thread one day and think about replying another day. 405 was discussed recently also. Plus I am getting old.

Beats dying young, I think.

''Fred" - Sean's intention is to obtain a 'High-Grade' model 1895 Winchester (manufactured in Japan) that will be chambered for the .30-40 Krag cartridge.

I had contemplated buying a 'standard' model 1895 Winchester (also manufactured in Japan) at a local gun shop chambered for .405 Winchester.
(BTW - The difference in model 1895 'grades' is related to the grading of the stock wood).

If .405 Winchester ammo was currently available 'off the shelf' for a fair price or if the rifle had been in .30-40 caliber, I would have bought it.

New Model 1895 rifles in .405 cal. appear to be priced a bit lower than the same model in .30-40.