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M1886 and M71 lever assemblies

2K views 1 reply 2 participants last post by  mike 
#1 ·
Okay, I've successfully avoided buying yet another lever action platform. I have a Browning M71 and a USRAC/Winchester M1886 with semipistol grip, and one of the finger lever assemblies must be changed.

Discussing only the metal involved, what Midwest parts will I need to acquire to alter the lever to be identical with the other rifle? The M1886's semipistol grip has a longer, slightly larger lever. Right now, I'm thinking that the M71's lever must be changed, but I'm going to shoot several more times with gloves to be sure.

As I look at them, it appears the lever, lower tang, plus one or two screws are all that need changing, but I'm uncertain. Regardless which way I go, the buttstock will be either altered or replaced to suit.
 
#2 ·
This photo will serve to demonstrate the slight difference in 1886(top) and 71 levers.


To make your proposed change all you will need are the lower tang and lever. Screws will transfer from one to the other. I have changed one of my 1886s to PG and these two parts are all that were needed. Due to the difference in mainspring design and method of attachment to the lower tang, you will have to drill the Winchester tang to accept the little block that holds the Browning spring. I have never seen a Browning 71 disassembled, but am assuming that it has the same mechanics as their 1886 rifles. The Miroku Winchesters are different mechanically, due to the requirements of the rebounding hammer and tang safety. Browning parts, however, are easily installed on Winchester guns and vice versa.
 
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