Pinging on the question of differences between the "pre '64 and post versions of the Model 88". If literally limiting to that comparatively 'high Ricter Scale" landslide shift between many Winchester models, the Model 88 got off 'a bit easy'. The reason that a child of the latter fifties in original design, many of the 'econo' savings were already built in! Also, the retail price considerably exceeding a model 94 lever for instance, the 'price to pay of such as the .308 Winchester chambering and its "ilk", far more wiggle room afforded as "yet profitable".
The large noticeable difference was the stock! Much like the Model 70, the "impressed checkering era" and indeed correctly termed as "impressive" but favorably; no one! By 64, most all "original design and specific cartridge nuance particulars" as long worked out. The "metal finish problems particularly inherent to the 'post' era model 94, about entirely avoided if to view the two 'era' rifles next to one another. In other words, in visible/otherwise noticeable changes, about only the wood! From typical "understated svelte" to "gaudy"!
Winchester the Firm, in broader perspectives, seriously seeking every possible production cost savings available. The Model 88 as a platform along with the Model 100 in semi-auto, as "noble experiments. The 88 with rise and fall in about decade & half altogether. The central concept of a lever actuated high power rifle really about a "noble experiment". Sales falling to "so-so" as the enigmatic Model 94, for all its "post era" problems, considerably more popular! A situation almost surely Winchester failed to ever originally contemplate. Also, the Model 88 in chamberings "competing" with the Model 70, also a decades proven rifle of considerable reputation. Self-competition has to be reconciled in positive sales numbers on both sides of the dual models & chamberings equation. 'That', not working out! The Model 88, died! Moreover with nary a significant 'blip' on general Winchester buyer radars! Today, to say the 88 either a "collector rifle" or "cult rifle" not fair. But remaining a "specialty model" to be enjoyed by a definite specific following.
I'm with two such, both in .308 Win. One a '57 vintage and by then 'most all' growing pains worked out. My early '68 Model 'first year' of the "88 Carbine" & without SN letter prefix. For me, 'it', the entire model wide sweet spot as 19" barrel, plain stock & barrel band!
Seconding the tech info referral suggestion: "Leroy's Ramblings" resource as Models 88 & 100 info saturation!
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https://www.leeroysramblings.com/Gun%20Articles/winchester_model_88_100_info.htmlBest!
John