The last gunshow that I was to, was in Fondulac Wisconsin (County Fairgrounds). A Model 71 Standard was for sale and it was in my estimation a grey rat(rough shape) . The fellow selling it was asking $1500 firm. WOW! In an earlier reply elsewere, I stated that I owned a Model 71 in 90%+ condition. I like to look at others just to see where the prices are at. OMG! to think what I paid for it years ago and what is being paid now... It's nutz....! DUST BTW....Mine is not for sale!
Please forgive me for suggesting this...what about a Browning 71? I know .....it's made in Japan. I have the carbine with a Williams Foolproof sight. It's a great shooter with wonderful fit and finish.
I think you can buy one for around $800 and still have enough $ left over for 1/2 a bear hunt.
I have noticed that the prices on the Browning leverguns (53, 71, 86, 92, and 95)have been steadily increasing for several years. Tell your wife it's an investment!
At a Gunmakers Guild show a few years ago there was a fellow who converted 71s to .45 and .50. He told me the Brownings would feed and operate upside down but the Winchesters wouldn't. Don't know if you hang upside down from a tree while shooting but if you do this might make a difference.
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