Lot 53

Desirable Bullard Large Frame "Model 1886" Lever Action Rifle

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Desirable Bullard Large Frame "Model 1886" Lever Action Rifle

Estimate: $5,000 - $7,500

Starting Bid: $4,500

(0 Bids)

by Rock Island Auction Company
August 21, 2026 9:00 AM CDT
Live Auction
3600 Harwood Road
Bedford, TX, US 76021

Exceptional and Highly Desirable Bullard Repeating Arms Co. Large Frame "Model 1886" Lever Action Rifle in .45-85 Bullard Manufactured c. 1883 to 1890, this is a very fine example of a rare special order large frame "Model 1886" rifle manufactured by the Bullard Repeating Arms Company. According to Gene Weicht in the American Society of Arms Collectors bulletin, the total production of Bullard rifles was never more than 2,800, and only around 1,500-2,000 of these were of the large frame variation like this example, making it quite rare. These rifles were patented in 1881 and were often later referred to in company literature as the Model 1886, likely an attempt to compete with Winchester's large frame repeater of the same name. Much like their competitors from Winchester and Marlin, these Bullard lever guns were offered in a wide array of configurations including both large and small frames, as well as military muskets. There were also a wide array of special order options available including multiple stock configurations and grades, calibers, and sights. Also like their competitors, these Bullards often saw hard use as working guns, with many finding their way to the western frontier, leaving very few surviving examples in high condition like this one. This particular example, chambered in the powerful .45-85 Bullard cartridge, would have been more than capable of downing even the largest game the frontier had to offer. Additionally, the rack-and-pinion design of the Bullard action made it not only one of the quietest, but also one of the smoothest operating actions available on the market during the period. The upper left of the action is marked with the two-line Bullard address and patent date and the caliber marking is on top of the breech. The serial number is marked on top at the rear of the action. It is fitted with a beaded blade front sight, a later replacement elevation adjustable Winchester No. 24 notch rear sight, and a long range peep sight on the upper tang. It has a special ordered half octagon barrel and a half magazine. It is mounted with a smooth forearm and straight grip stock with a crescent buttplate.

Manufacturer: Bullard Repeating Arms Co

Model: 1886

BBL: 28 inch part octagon

Stock: walnut

Gauge: 45-85 Bullard

Finish: blue/casehardened

Serial Number2602

Class: Antique

  • Condition: Exceptionally fine, retains 60% plus of the original blue finish and 75% plus of the vibrant original case colors with the balance mostly a smooth grey patina. The wood is fine with some scattered minor dings and scratches. Mechanically excellent.

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Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $199 $10
$200 $499 $25
$500 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $2,500
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
$200,000 + $25,000