This English Short Express Rifle Model 1876 is configured similarly to the Model 1886 Lightweight in that it has a short 22 inch barrel (although not tapered), rifle style forearm, short magazine tube, and shotgun butt. A similar example is pictured on page 238 of "The Winchester Book" by Madis. In the data discussed on page 253 of the above book, Madis notes that only one of each 800 had a shorter than average barrel. The factory letter lists this special order Model 1876 with a 22 inch round barrel in highly desirable .50-95 caliber, "inside finish," plain trigger, checkered pistol grip stock, half magazine, shotgun buttplate, and casehardened receiver when received in the warehouse on July 10, 1882 and shipped on July 12 with 89 other arms to order number 32944. The barrel is fitted with a dovetail blade front sight and three leaf rear sight graduated to 300 yards and stamped with the two-line address/patent dates ahead of the rear sight on top and "50 CAL" and British proofs at the breech. An additional "Crown/V" proof is on the frame. The second model receiver features a dust cover guide rail attached to the receiver with two screws. The dust cover has the Holland & Holland marking: "SIGHTED BY/HOLLAND & HOLLAND,/98 NEW BOND STREET,/LONDON." An included Holland & Holland letter states this rifle was not found in their records. The forearm and pistol grip stock are deluxe walnut and feature "H" style checkering. The buttstock (could not be removed) has an ebony grip insert and a steel shotgun buttplate. The .50-95 Winchester Express was the largest caliber available for the Model 1876 and proved popular with big and dangerous game hunters. Many Model 1876 rifles chambered for this powerful cartridge were shipped to England and then found their way to Africa and India where they were often employed against big cats. Theodore Roosevelt loved his .45-75 '76, but he and other Americans scorned the .50 Express, and thus, the Model 1876 was only produced in limited numbers chambered for that cartridge compared to the smaller calibers.

Very good plus. The barrel retains 25% original blue finish with the balance a smooth brown-gray patina. 30% original niter blue remains on the loading gate. The hammer, receiver, and lever retain 40% original case colors. There is some minor pitting mostly on the receiver. The reoiled wood is very good with minimal handling marks and recut checkering. Mechanically excellent. A highly desirable deluxe Model 1876 .50 Express "English short" rifle with Holland & Holland retailer marking.