This is an example of an early Second Model 1878 carbine that was manufactured in 1881 and features the dust cover guide rail attached to the top of the receiver by two screws. Fixed front sight with a two leaf folding rear carbine sight with "1 inch, "3 inch AND "5 inch graduations. The top of the barrel is marked with the two line Winchester/King's Improvement patent dates ahead of the rear sight, is absent of any caliber markings, and has British proofs on the left rear of the barrel and upper left front of the receiver. The left side plate is stamped "LONDON ARMOURY/JAS KERR & CO/54 KING WM. ST. E C". The upper tang is marked "MODEL. 1876."and the serial number is on the lower tang. Saddle ring and stud mounted on the left side of the receiver and it is mounted with a full length walnut forearm with a steel forend cap and straight grip stock with an iron carbine buttplate.

Very good. The carbine retains 30% plus original blue finish, concentrated mainly on the receiver side plates and in protected areas, with a smooth brown patina on the balance. There is a small area of minor pitting and filing present just ahead of the rear sight and some tool marks on the breech end. The hammer, buttplate and lever have a smooth mottled brown patina. The wood is also very good with a minor 2 inch crack in the left rear of the forearm, some speckled paint splatter on the stock, and overall some minor dings and dents. The markings are clear. The action is fine.