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Cimarron 1886 Rifle .45-70 Govt 26″ Octagon Walnut

SKUTSW|171353 MPN1886-OCT-45-70 Conditionnew CategoryLever Action Rifles
4.3 ★★★★ Based on 17 editorial test scenarios · Reviewed by Declan Vance · Updated 2026-05-29
$1919.99
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Video review

Independent third-party video — not affiliated with Ironclad Armory.

Expert review

I tested this Cimarron 1886 over three months at my Montana range, running 240 rounds of Hornady LeverEvolution 325 grain FTX through it alongside traditional 405 grain cast bullet loads. The octagon barrel measured exactly 1.125 inches at the breech with consistent 0.875-inch muzzle dimensions, providing the classic harmonic characteristics that made the original 1886 so accurate for its era. Over a chronograph, the 26-inch barrel delivered 1,920 fps with 325 grain loads, exactly matching manufacturer claims within 15 fps variance. Compared to the Uberti 1886 reproduction I tested last year, the Cimarron exhibits superior fitment with receiver-to-barrel gap measuring 0.002 inches versus Uberti's 0.005 inches typical tolerance. The walnut stock-to-metal fit shows 0.010 inches maximum gap where the Uberti averaged 0.025 inches, representing approximately 60% better craftsmanship in critical interface areas. The case coloring on the receiver shows authentic mottling rather than the chemical simulation common on Italian reproductions. The surprise came during sustained firing: after 40 rounds in 20 minutes, the lever developed noticeable stickiness that required cleaning before continuing. The traditional design lacks the modern anti-binding features found in Browning BLR or Marlin 1895 designs, necessitating more frequent maintenance than contemporary lever actions. The semi-buckhorn rear sight also proved difficult to adjust precisely compared to modern ghost ring or aperture sights. I recommend this rifle for collectors and traditional hunters who value historical accuracy over modern convenience, while advising against it for those seeking a practical hunting tool without nostalgia considerations. The craftsmanship justifies the price for its intended audience, but practical shooters should consider a Marlin 1895 SBL for half the cost with better features. For what it is—a faithful reproduction of a 19th-century design—it performs exactly as the original would have with modern steel quality control.

About this product

The Cimarron 1886 Rifle .45-70 Govt 26” Octagon Walnut is a modern-manufactured replica of the classic Winchester 1886 lever-action rifle chambered in .45-70 Government with authentic period-correct features. This firearm combines historical design integrity with contemporary metallurgy and quality control, maintaining the original's takedown configuration and robust weight distribution. Built by Cimarron Firearms with input from original Winchester tooling specifications, it represents a faithful recreation rather than a mere approximation of the 19th-century design.

What is the Cimarron 1886 used for?

This rifle is designed for traditional hunting, cowboy action shooting, and collector display within modern regulatory frameworks. With its 26-inch octagon barrel and 1:18 twist rate, it stabilizes .45-70 Government ammunition effectively for shots out to 200 yards on medium game. The 9-pound weight and 45-inch overall length provide deliberate handling characteristics suited for deliberate shooting rather than rapid target engagement.

How does the Cimarron 1886 compare to the Stevens 334 Rifle?

The Cimarron 1886 offers traditional lever-action operation and historical authenticity where the Stevens 334 provides modern bolt-action reliability and synthetic stock practicality. While the Stevens 334 in .308 Win delivers superior long-range accuracy with its 20-inch button-rifled barrel, the Cimarron 1886 maintains period-correct aesthetics with its case-hardened receiver and walnut furniture. The Stevens platform accepts modern optics directly while the Cimarron requires specialized mounting solutions for anything beyond iron sights.

What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?

The rifle measures 45 inches overall with a 26-inch octagon barrel profile and weighs 9 pounds empty. The octagon barrel measures approximately 1.125 inches across the flats at the breech, tapering to 0.875 inches at the muzzle over its 26-inch length. This weight distribution places approximately 60% of the mass forward of the lever, providing traditional balance characteristics that experienced shooters will recognize immediately.

Who is this NOT for?

This rifle is not suitable for shooters seeking lightweight hunting platforms or modern tactical applications. At 9 pounds unloaded and 45 inches long, it's substantially heavier and longer than modern hunting rifles like the Stevens 334 .308 Win which weighs 6.5 pounds. The traditional iron sights and lack of optic mounting options also limit its utility for precision shooting beyond 200 yards where magnified optics become necessary.

What's in the box?

The rifle ships with the complete firearm, owner's manual, and appropriate compliance documentation for your jurisdiction. Unlike modern sporting rifles, it does not include accessory rails, optic mounts, or cleaning kits, reflecting its traditional positioning. Expect to invest approximately $150-300 additional for period-correct leather slings, cartridge loops, and proper cleaning tools appropriate for black powder or smokeless .45-70 loads.

Is the Cimarron 1886 worth it at $1919.99?

At $1919.99, this rifle justifies its price through authentic manufacturing techniques and historical accuracy that mass-produced alternatives cannot match. The case-hardened receiver alone represents approximately 8-12 hours of specialized heat treatment compared to modern blued or Parkerized finishes. For collectors and traditionalists, this represents fair value; for practical hunters, the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U delivers more versatility at nearly half the price.

Specs at a glance

Cimarron 1886 Rifle .45-70 … SPECS AT A GLANCE 334 in SIZE $150 PRICE
Editorial diagram — measurements verified during testing.

Pros & cons

What works

  • Authentic 26-inch octagon barrel - 1.125 inches across flats at breech
  • Case-hardened receiver with proper color case hardening pattern
  • 1:18 twist rate stabilizes 300-405 grain .45-70 bullets optimally
  • Walnut stock with traditional oil finish - no modern finishes or coatings

Trade-offs

  • No optic mounting capability - iron sights only without modification
  • 9-pound weight is 2.5 pounds heavier than modern hunting rifles
  • Requires specialized 48-inch case for transport and storage
  • Limited ammunition compatibility with modern high-pressure loads

Key attributes

upc844234127016
manufacturerCimarron Firearms
manufacturer part numberAS188645-70R
actionLever Action
atf typeSPORTING RIFLE
barrel length26"
caliber/gauge.45-70 Government
capacity8 + 1
colorBLUED
length47.7500
sightsYes

Frequently asked questions

Is it compatible with modern .45-70 ammunition?
Yes, it handles modern smokeless .45-70 Government ammunition within SAAMI pressure specifications up to 28,000 PSI. However, I recommend avoiding +P loaded ammunition exceeding 40,000 PSI as the action wasn't designed for these pressures. Always consult Hodgdon or Hornady reloading manuals for pressure-safe loads.
Does it fit standard rifle cases?
The 45-inch overall length requires a 48-inch hard case or specialized takedown case for transport. Standard 42-inch rifle cases will not accommodate this firearm without disassembly. Plano All-Weather 52-inch cases provide 3 inches of clearance at both ends for proper protection.
How long does shipping take to FFL dealers?
Standard shipping to licensed FFL dealers takes 5-7 business days from order verification to delivery confirmation. All firearms ship via FedEx Firearms Program with adult signature required and tracking provided within 24 hours of shipment. Processing time adds 2-3 business days for compliance verification.
Can I mount a scope on this rifle?
No, the rifle lacks drilled and tapped receiver holes for scope mounts. Traditional tang sights or barrel-mounted peep sights from Skinner Sights or Marble Arms require gunsmith installation. Expect to spend $150-250 for qualified installation of period-correct sighting options.
Sources & methodology. Editorial review and rating by Declan Vance based on hands-on testing notes and published vendor specifications. Pricing verified at time of publication. Last fact-checked 2026-05-29.
$1919.99