To know Winchester may be to know Smith & Wesson, as NRA Museums Senior Curator Phil Schreier remarks in the opening of this video, but to know Winchester is also to know a key part of American history, and the history of the frontier. From the original designs behind the scenes with Smith & Wesson, to the industry-changing firearms that actually came to production, this video explores the deep-rooted history of Winchester, and their gradual metamorphosis of the lever gun design from the original Model 1866, to the classic Model 1886 in 45-70, to the wildly popular Model 1894. If you’re a fan of American history, the history of the firearm industry, or even someone more technically minded, interested in how a design evolves over time, make sure not to miss this segment from American Rifleman TV.
Video—ARTV: Winchester 150, Part 1
More like this from around the NRA
Latest
Caring For & Feeding Your Cap-and-Ball Revolvers
Compared to pistoleros of the 19th century, today’s handgunners have it easy. It's not enough just to get an old-school, cap-and-ball revolver. You also need to acquire everything to shoot and clean it.
Lighter & Better: Savage’s Updated Ultralite Series of Rifles
Savage Arms kicked off 2026 by announcing a new generation of Model 110 bolt-action rifles, and now, the company has also introduced an updated series of Ultralite rifles.
Gun of the Week: Franchi Momentum Elite MULE
One of the latest entrants into the general-utility rifle market is Franchi with its Momentum Utility Lite Elite bolt-action rifle, also known as the MULE.
The Armed Citizen® Sept. 11, 2026
Read today's "The Armed Citizen" entry for real stories of law-abiding citizens, past and present, who used their firearms to save lives.
Have .22 LR Handguns Finally Become Viable Options for Self-Defense?
Although .22 LR pistols and revolvers are plentiful and affordable, they still have notable limitations when it comes to self-defense applications.
Aero Precision Returns with New Owners
An investment group comprised of family members passionate about firearms and the outdoor sports has purchased Aero Precision, Ballistic Advantage, Stag Arms and VG6.
![Aero Precision[72]](/media/21vfqbw0/aero-precision-72.jpg?anchor=center&mode=crop&width=770&height=430&rnd=134334197362730000&quality=60)
![Aero Precision[72]](/media/21vfqbw0/aero-precision-72.jpg?anchor=center&mode=crop&width=150&height=150&rnd=134334197362730000&quality=60)
Interests
SECTIONS
IN THE SPOTLIGHT
EXPLORE MORE NRA PUBLICATIONS
