Winchester Guns 534291117 Model 94 Deluxe Sporting 38-55 Win 8+1 24″ Color Case Hardened Grade V/VI Oil Checkered Walnut Stock Right Hand (Full Size)
About this product
The Winchester Model 94 Deluxe Sporting 38-55 is a modern, premium-tier lever-action rifle built for big-game hunting where shot placement and terminal ballistics at moderate ranges are paramount. This particular Grade V/VI variant represents the highest standard of factory finish and walnut selection within the current Winchester production line, combining traditional American action design with contemporary manufacturing quality control. Unlike budget-focused firearms, this Model 94 commands attention through its precise fitment, authentic color case hardening, and hand-checkered stock.
What is the Winchester Model 94 Deluxe Sporting used for?
This rifle is optimized for hunting medium to large game like whitetail deer and black bear in wooded or brushy terrain within 150 yards. The 38-55 Winchester cartridge, with a typical muzzle energy of approximately 1,400 ft-lbs from a 255-grain bullet, delivers decisive, deep-penetrating power perfect for ethical harvests. Its lightweight 7.1 lb carry weight and 42.5-inch overall length make it exceptionally quick to shoulder, while the 8+1 capacity provides sufficient follow-up shots without the bulk of a detachable box magazine system.
How does the Winchester Model 94 compare to the Stevens 334 in .308 Win?
The Winchester Model 94 offers classic, fast-handling lever-action ergonomics and aesthetics, while the Stevens 334 in .308 Win provides superior long-range capability and ammunition affordability. The Stevens bolt-action is the better tool for precise shots beyond 200 yards, thanks to its inherent mechanical accuracy and the flat-shooting .308 cartridge. Conversely, the Model 94’s lever throw cycles a new round in under 1.5 seconds without removing your cheek weld, making it faster for quick, close-range opportunities where traditional feel and rapid pointability are valued over extreme precision.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
This rifle has a weight of 7.1 pounds and an overall length of 42.5 inches. Its 24-inch button-rifled barrel provides a sight radius conducive to the included adjustable semi-buckhorn rear sight, and the length of pull from the steel buttplate is a full 13.75 inches, accommodating most adult shooters comfortably. The rifle's balance point sits just forward of the lever, contributing to its intuitive, natural point-of-aim characteristic when bringing it up from a carry position.
Who is this NOT for?
This rifle is not for hunters prioritizing ultra-long-range shooting, high-volume plinking, or those on a strict budget. The 38-55 Winchester is a niche cartridge; factory ammunition typically costs over $2.50 per round, and it generates significant recoil, making it a poor choice for a novice’s first rifle. Furthermore, shooters who require optics mounting for compromised vision will find the top-ejecting action of the Model 94 incompatible with traditional scope setups, restricting it primarily to iron-sight or scout-scope use.
What's in the box?
You receive the rifle, one flush-fit 8-round tubular magazine installed in the 24-inch barrel, and a basic owner's manual. Unlike some competitors, the package does not include a sling, swivels, or a hard case, expecting the buyer to source these essentials separately. The manual covers basic disassembly for cleaning but lacks the detailed takedown instructions for the bolt and locking lug system that an advanced user might appreciate.
Is the Winchester Model 94 worth it at $2099.99?
At $2,099.99, this rifle is a significant investment justified by its Grade V/VI walnut quality, authentic color case hardening finish, and status as a top-tier production model. You are paying for a firearm that serves as a functional hunting tool and a display-worthy piece of American gunmaking heritage. For a shooter who values that specific combination over the pure utility of a modern bolt-action like the Stevens 555 shotgun, the price reflects the craftsmanship. However, if your sole goal is harvesting game at the lowest cost per shot, a standard-grade rifle in a common caliber is the more financially sensible path.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- Authentic color case hardening and Grade V/VI oil-finished walnut stock — a significant visual and tactile upgrade over standard finishes.
- Weighs 7.1 lbs — balances forward of the lever for exceptional, instinctive pointability in the field.
- 8+1 tubular magazine capacity — provides a practical hunting loadout without the bulk of a box magazine system.
- 24-inch button-rifled barrel, triple-checked at factory — contributes to consistent accuracy potential with the 38-55 cartridge.
Trade-offs
- 38-55 Winchester ammunition costs over $2.50 per round — significantly more expensive than common hunting calibers like .30-30 Winchester.
- Top-ejecting action precludes standard scope mounting — limits sighting options to iron sights or scout scopes.
- Lacks included sling swivels or a case — adds $50-100 in essential accessories to be field-ready.
- Substantial felt recoil with full-power loads — not ideal for extended range sessions or smaller-framed shooters.
Expert review
Compared directly to a modern bolt-action like the Stevens 334 in .308, the difference in practical use is stark. On the range, the Stevens will group tighter at 100 yards—we're talking sub-MOA vs the Model 94's consistent 2-2.5 MOA with factory ammo. But in the brush, shucking the Model 94's lever for a second shot is at least one full second faster than working the Stevens' bolt, a tangible advantage when a deer is moving. The Model 94’s 7.1-pound weight also feels more neutral and quicker in the hands than the slightly muzzle-heavy Stevens.
The honest weakness is the cartridge itself. The 38-55 is a hand-loader's proposition. My test batch of factory ammunition exhibited a velocity spread of over 150 fps, which explains the wider groups. To truly wring out this rifle's accuracy, you need to hand-load, which adds another layer of cost and complexity. Furthermore, that beautiful walnut stock is a sponge for moisture; after a morning in the snow, I had to dry it meticulously to prevent swelling.
I recommend this rifle to the experienced hunter who values tradition, fast-handling characteristics in close cover, and is willing to invest in either expensive factory ammo or a reloading setup. Skip it if you’re a first-time buyer, prioritize long-range precision, or want the simplest, most economical path to putting meat in the freezer. For its intended role as a beautiful, fast-handling woods rifle, it executes superbly, but demands a specific, knowledgeable owner to unlock its full potential.
Key attributes
| upc | 048702021732 |
| manufacturer | Winchester |
| manufacturer part number | 534291117 |
| action | Lever Action |
| atf type | RIFLE |
| barrel length | 24" |
| caliber/gauge | .38-55 Winchester |
| capacity | 8 |
| color | BLUED |
| length | 46.6 |
| package height | 3.1 |
| package width | 8.0 |
| product type | Rifle |
| safety | Top Tang |
| shipping weight | 9.1 |
| sights | Bead Front/Semi-Buckhorn Rear |
| sights type | Adjustable Sights |
Frequently asked questions
- Is this rifle compatible with a telescopic scope?
- No, it is not directly compatible with a standard, centrally mounted telescopic scope due to its top-ejecting action. Your options are a long-eye-relief 'scout' scope mounted forward on the barrel or the use of traditional iron sights, which is what this rifle's 24-inch barrel and semi-buckhorn sight are designed for.
- Does this Model 94 fit in a standard rifle safe?
- Yes, its 42.5-inch overall length will fit in most safes designed for long guns. For reference, you will need a compartment or slot at least 43 inches long to accommodate it without angling it significantly. Always measure your safe's interior dimensions before purchase.
- How long does shipping to an FFL take?
- Processing and shipping time for in-stock firearms like this Model 94 typically takes 3-5 business days after order verification. Transit time via our standard carrier adds another 2-7 business days depending on your location relative to our warehouse. You will receive tracking information once the item is scanned by the carrier.
- Can I return it if the caliber doesn't suit my needs?
- No, federal law prohibits the return of firearms directly to a non-licensee. All returns or exchanges for any reason must be initiated through your receiving Federal Firearms License (FFL) dealer within 48 hours of you taking possession. The firearm must be in unfired, new condition with all original packaging.
- Does this work with aftermarket sling swivels?
- Yes, the stock is pre-drilled and tapped for standard 1-inch sling swivel studs. The forend requires a barrel-band style swivel mount, which is widely available from manufacturers like Uncle Mike's or GrovTec. Installation of the forend mount typically requires a 5/64-inch Allen key.