The Winchester Model 1886 Short Rifle is a lever-action rifle chambered in .45-70 Government with a 24-inch blued steel barrel, blued steel receiver, and a Grade I satin walnut straight grip stock. 
 

Key Specifications: 

• Manufacturer: Winchester 
• Model: 1886 Short 
• Caliber: .45-70 GOVT 
• Action Type: Lever Action 
• Capacity: 8+1 Rounds 
• Barrel Length: 24 inches 
• Overall Length: 43 inches 
• Weight: 8.6 lbs (approximately) 
• Safety Mechanism: Top Tang Safety 
• Stock Material: Grade I Satin Walnut 
• Finish Color: Blued with Brushed Polish 
   

Detailed Features: 

The deeply blued steel receiver and barrel resist wear. The full-length tubular magazine holds 8+1 rounds, which is more than most lever-action .45-70 rifles. Sights are adjustable rear and a brass bead front. Barrel twist rate is 1:20". The top tang safety is positioned for easy thumb reach. 
 
The straight grip walnut stock keeps the rifle close to the original 1886 profile. 
 

Usage 

The 24-inch barrel gets good velocity from the .45-70 Government and extends its effective range compared to shorter-barreled versions. At 43 inches overall and 8.6 lbs it is a full-size rifle intended for hunting and range use rather than brush work. The 8+1 capacity is notably high for the caliber. Collectors are drawn to it for its fidelity to the original 1886 design.

The Winchester 1886 Short .45-70 Grade I Walnut gets strong marks for its historical accuracy, build quality, and smooth lever action. The solid blued finish and walnut stock are consistently described as well-executed, and the .45-70 caliber performs on large game and target work.

Weight at roughly 8.6 lbs comes up. It is heavy compared to modern carbines, which matters during extended hunts. Some owners discuss optics mounting and other customizations. The 1:20" twist and 24-inch barrel are noted as giving good consistency with heavier .45-70 loads.

Pricing is discussed. Most owners see value in a rifle with this level of historical detail and build quality, while some compare it to less expensive alternatives. The nostalgia factor is genuine; many owners mention family connections to the original 1886 design as part of why they purchased it.