The Taylor's & Company 1886 TC86 Takedown is a lever-action rifle chambered in .45-70 GOVT, built around the classic 1886 Winchester pattern. The 16.5-inch barrel keeps the package short and maneuverable without giving up much in the way of accuracy, and the takedown design makes it straightforward to break down for transport or storage. 
 

Key Specifications 

• Model: 1886 TC86 Takedown 
• Caliber: .45-70 GOVT 
• Action: Lever Action 
• Capacity: 4 Rounds 
• Barrel Length: 16.5 inches 
• Weight: 7.8 lbs. 
• Finish: Blued 
   

Detailed Features 

The lever-action mechanism cycles quickly and handles the stout .45-70 cartridge reliably. With only 16.5 inches of barrel, the rifle is easier to handle in tight quarters or dense brush than a full-length 1886 variant, a trade-off most hunters and brush-country shooters will find worthwhile. 
 
The checkered walnut stock gives a positive grip in varied conditions. Sighting is handled by an adjustable peep rear paired with a fiber optic front, which picks up light well and speeds target acquisition compared to a plain bead. At 7.8 lbs., the rifle is comfortable to carry all day without wearing out a shoulder. 
 

Usage Scenarios 

• Hunting large game: The .45-70 delivers heavy, wide-diameter projectiles at moderate velocity, well-suited for deer, bear, and similar quarry at woods distances. 
   
• Sport shooting: The lever mechanism cycles fast enough to be competitive in lever-gun events or casual plinking. 
   
• Close-quarters defense: The short barrel and compact profile make the rifle practical in confined spaces where a 26-inch hunting gun would be unwieldy.

Owners of the TC86 Takedown in .45-70 generally have good things to say about it, with a few recurring caveats.

The walnut finish draws consistent compliments for fit, figuring, and attention to checkering detail. The takedown feature also gets regular praise. It makes airline or truck transport much less of a hassle, and the lockup holds zero well enough that most users don't need to re-zero after reassembly.

The .45-70 chambering earns respect for what it does to big game, but recoil is a genuine consideration. Shooters with less experience behind a heavy thumper sometimes find the muzzle flip and push more than expected, particularly with hotter handloads.

Weight and balance come up in both directions. Many appreciate the solid, planted feel at the bench or offhand; a few find 7.8 lbs. tiring during long all-day carry. Accuracy reports are mostly positive, though several users note that getting the most out of the rifle takes practice and some load development.

Overall, the TC86 Takedown sits well with hunters and collectors who want a classic lever-action in a meaningful caliber with the added convenience of a takedown design. Those sensitive to recoil or new to the .45-70 should budget some range time before heading afield.