The Winchester Model 94 Short Rifle is a lever-action chambered in .38-55 Win with a 20-inch barrel, 38-inch overall length, and a weight reported variously as 6.12 to 6.8 lbs. Capacity is 7+1 rounds. The stock is black walnut with a satin finish, and the barrel and receiver are brushed polished blued steel. 
 

Key Specifications 

• Brand: Winchester 
• Model: Model 94 Short Rifle 
• Caliber: .38-55 Win 
• Action Type: Lever Action 
• Barrel Length: 20 inches 
• Overall Length: 38 inches 
• Weight: 6.12 lbs (6.8 lbs reported) 
• Capacity: 7+1 rounds 
• Sights: Bead Front & Semi-Buckhorn Rear; Drilled & Tapped for scope mounting 
• Safety Type: Tang safety 
• Stock Material: Black Walnut with Satin finish 
   

Detailed Features 

 
The lever action cycles smoothly, which helps with quick follow-up shots in hunting situations. Barrel twist is 1:15", suited for .38-55 Win projectiles at mid-range. The fixed straight grip stock is a traditional design that keeps handling straightforward during extended use. Bead front and semi-buckhorn rear sights are fast to pick up and appropriate for the caliber's typical engagement distances. The receiver is drilled and tapped if you want to mount a scope. 
 

Usage Scenarios 

• Hunting: The .38-55 Win is a capable deer and medium game cartridge at reasonable distances. 
• Lever-Action Competitions: The smooth action and manageable recoil suit timed lever-gun events. 
• Field Use: At around 6 lbs it is light enough to carry through rough country for a full day.

Owners of the Winchester 94 Classic in .38-55 tend to lead with appreciation for the rifle's history and the lever-action feel. The action itself gets consistent praise for being smooth and reliable. People who grew up with Model 94s in other calibers often pick this one up specifically for the .38-55, attracted by the cartridge's long history in American lever guns.

The walnut stock and blued finish draw positive comments on aesthetics. Most owners see the traditional styling as a feature rather than a compromise.

On the practical side, accuracy and manageable recoil come up regularly as strengths. The main practical complaints are weight (some find it heavier than expected for a rifle they want to carry all day) and .38-55 ammunition availability, which is narrower than common hunting calibers and can push cost up.

Overall the sentiment is solidly favorable, particularly among hunters and collectors who value the heritage of the platform. Shooters strictly focused on ammunition economy or minimizing carry weight sometimes look elsewhere.