Cool story Nog. I have my great grandpa's Winchester 1894. It dates back to 1902 and, along with other tools that he required to homestead and break the land, he bought this rifle brand new on his arrival to Canada from the Ukraine. While handling the rifle I often wonder how many animals the rifle provided for him and his young family back then. The story goes that the rifle was originally chambered in 38-55 with a long octagon barrel. He had the barrel removed shortly after and it was replaced with a shorter one in 30-30 for easier handling in the bush. I sure wish I knew where he put that original barrel! I've searched the homestead on a few occasions with no success. Note his initials that he carved into the butt stock:
I'm happy and blessed that I will have the opportunity to pass the rifle down to one of our sons. My hope is that it will stay in our family forever as it is only one of a small handful of personal items that remain from his life.