Texas Game Warden Inscribed Winchester Model 94 Lever Action Saddle Ring Trapper's Carbine with 15 Inch Barrel and ATF Exemption Letter

Manufactured in 1920, this is a highly desirable example of Winchester's Model 1894 Trapper's carbine with a 15 inch barrel, that is inscribed to a U.S. Game Warden from Texas. A vast majority of these carbines were utilized as working guns, as seems to be the case with this particular example, leaving relatively few surviving examples available for collectors. This particular example bears a faint inscription on the buttplate that appears to be for George C. Shafter, U.S. Game Warden, from San Antonio, Texas. Sadly, more information regarding Shafter has been lost with time, but a carbine such as this would have been an ideal arm for a game warden, and this one certainly has the look of having served for years in that purpose. A compact carbine such as this would have been ideal for anyone in law enforcement in the early 20th century, particularly one that might be spending a lot of time on horseback. The carbine has the standard Winchester markings, including factory oval proofs on the barrel and receiver at the breech. It is fitted with a Marble beaded blade front sight, a folding ladder rear sight, and a saddle ring on the left of the receiver. It is mounted with a smooth forearm and straight grip stock with a crescent buttplate. Included with this example is an ATF letter listing it as exempt from the provisions of the National Firearms Act.

Condition

Fine showing the character of a Texas working gun, retaining 70% of the original blue finish on the barrel and magazine tube, traces of original blue on the receiver, and 80% of the original nitre blue on the loading gate with the balance a mixed grey and brown patina, traces of period nickel plating on the barrel bands, and a few scattered patches of light pitting. The period refinished wood is good with minor cracks, a minor chip absent from the left upper edge of the wrist, and some scattered minor dings. Mechanically excellent. A desirable Winchester Model 1894 Trapper's carbine inscribed to a Texas game warden!