How To Choose Screw Size For Winchester Model 94 Receiver

The Winchester Model 94 is a lever-action rifle designed by John M. Browning and introduced in November 1894. Over 5,500,000 rifles have been produced, and it remains a bestseller due to its power, reliability, light weight, and compact dimensions. The rifle has undergone some modifications since its introduction, including a slight design change in 1964 to reduce production costs and the addition of angled ejection and a crossbolt safety in 1982 to accommodate optical sights. While the basic design has changed very little, the screw size on the receiver of the Winchester Model 94 may vary depending on the production year and specific model variations.

Pre-1964 vs. post-1964 models

The Winchester Model 1894 rifle, also known as the Winchester 94 or Model 94, is a lever-action repeating rifle that was designed by John Browning in 1894. The rifle has been produced by several manufacturers since its inception, including the Winchester Repeating Arms Company, U.S. Repeating Arms, Miroku, and Browning Arms.

In mid-1964, there were significant changes made to the manufacturing process of the Winchester 94 to reduce production costs. These changes included using sintered steel for the receiver, stamped sheet metal for the cartridge lifter, and hollow roll pins in the action. While these changes did not affect the function, safety, or accuracy of the rifle, they were noticeable and came at a time when Winchester was also making significant changes to their flagship Model 70 bolt-action rifle. As a result, many people sought out rifles made before 1964, known as "pre-'64" models, which are considered to be of higher quality and command a higher price on the gun market.

The pre-1964 Winchester 94 rifles are known for their solid steel receivers, solid steel roll pins, and solid steel cartridge elevators. They also featured top ejection, which made it difficult to mount a scope on the rifle. The post-1964 Winchester 94 rifles, on the other hand, used sintered steel for the receiver, which is equal to or stronger than solid steel but does not hold bluing as well. These rifles also had a stamped steel cartridge lifter and hollow roll pins, making the gun lighter. In addition, the angle ejection introduced in 1982 allowed for the mounting of a scope on the receiver.

The pre-1964 Winchester 94 rifles are often favoured by collectors and enthusiasts for their nostalgia factor, higher-quality materials, and attention to detail in the manufacturing process. The fit and finish of these rifles are noticeably better than the post-war models, with hand-fitted parts and perfect wood-to-metal seams. However, the post-1964 Winchester 94 rifles are still considered to be good rifles that shoot well, and they are more affordable than the pre-1964 models.

In summary, the main differences between the pre-1964 and post-1964 Winchester 94 rifles lie in the materials used, the manufacturing process, and the scope-mounting options. The pre-1964 rifles are known for their solid steel components and high-quality craftsmanship, while the post-1964 rifles feature some cost-saving measures but still maintain the function and accuracy of the rifle.

Screw size and thread pattern

The Winchester Model 94 rifle has been in production since 1894 and remains a bestseller. Over the years, there have been slight modifications to its design, and these variations are referred to as "Pre-'64" and "Post-'64". The specific screw size and thread pattern for the receiver of a Winchester Model 94 rifle may vary depending on the year of manufacture and the specific type of sight installed.

For example, in the mid-1950s, the rifle was equipped with a Lyman No. 66 receiver-mounted peep sight. The two drilled and tapped screw holes for this sight are a standard feature on rifles manufactured after 1952, but they were also offered as a special order option as early as 1934. If you have a rifle with these factory-drilled screw holes, the threads inside the holes will be blued.

On the other hand, if the threads are in the white (raw metal), it indicates that the holes were drilled and tapped after the rifle was manufactured. In such cases, the holes were likely added by a gunsmith, as they possessed the necessary skills for this task during that era.

When it comes to the front band screw, there have been reports of difficulties in finding the correct size. The size and thread pattern of this screw can vary depending on the specific model and year of manufacture of your Winchester Model 94. It is recommended to consult with a qualified gunsmith or a reputable gun parts supplier to ensure you obtain the correct screw size and thread pattern for your particular rifle.

Additionally, it is worth noting that the Winchester Model 94 has a variety of other screws and parts available for purchase, such as the recoil pad, rear sight binding screw, front sight ramp screw, and the dovetail front sight, to name a few. These parts are designed for the Post-1964 production Winchester Model 94 Angle Eject (AE) lever-action carbine rifle.

Screws for receiver-mounted peep sights

Receiver-mounted peep sights are an excellent option for those looking to improve their accuracy when shooting. While there are many options available on the market, it's important to select a sight that is compatible with your firearm and ensures a secure fit.

Winchester Model 94

Winchester Model 94 rifles, manufactured from 1934 through June 1942, were drilled and tapped for both tang-mounted and receiver-mounted peep sights. From June 1942 through early 1952, the Model 94 was not drilled or tapped for any type of peep sight unless it was a special order. Since 1952, Winchester has offered drilled and tapped holes for receiver-mounted peep sights as a standard feature.

Screw Considerations

When selecting screws for receiver-mounted peep sights, it's important to consider the following:

• Screw Size: Ensure that the screws are compatible with the drilled and tapped holes on your firearm. In some cases, you may need to drill and tap your own holes, but it's always best to consult a professional gunsmith before modifying your firearm.
• Number of Screws: Most receiver-mounted peep sights require two screws for a secure fit.
• Screw Type: The type of screw will depend on the specific peep sight you choose. Some sights use standard screws, while others may have specialised screws with unique features such as fibre optics or windage adjustment capabilities.

Peep Sight Options

There are a variety of peep sights available for the Winchester Model 94, and it's important to select one that fits your firearm's calibre and receiver size. Here are some options to consider:

• Lyman No. 48 and No. 66: These were the original peep sights offered by Winchester for the Model 94, and they can be found on rifles manufactured during specific time periods.
• Modern Receiver-Mounted Peep Sights: There are a range of modern options available that offer features such as fibre optics, windage and elevation adjustments, and different aperture sizes. Ensure that you select a sight that is specifically designed for the Model 94 and fits your rifle's calibre and receiver size.

When installing receiver-mounted peep sights, it is always recommended to consult a qualified gunsmith to ensure a proper and secure fit. Additionally, remember to consider the type of screws required for your selected peep sight to ensure a hassle-free installation process.

Screws for tang-mounted peep sights

The Winchester Model 94 rifle has a rich history dating back to the early 20th century, and its design has evolved over the years. One aspect that has seen changes is the presence of screws for tang-mounted peep sights.

From 1934 through June 1942, the Winchester Model 64 Rifles featured drilling and tapping for both tang-mounted and receiver-mounted peep sights. During this period, the Model 94 was also drilled and tapped for a tang peep sight. However, from June 1942 to early 1952, the Model 94 did not come with any peep sight drilling unless specifically ordered. This information provides insight into the variations that existed during different production periods.

The Marble Arms Peep Tang Sight is a notable option for tang-mounted peep sights. Webster Marble, an advocate for tang-mounted peep sights, described the Peep Tang Sight as "the perfect rear sight." This sight offers increased speed and precision, as the shooter's vision is drawn through the rear sight, eliminating the need to acquire a traditional sight picture. The windage and elevation adjustments on the Marble Arms Peep Tang Sight are micrometer-precise, with each click corresponding to a specific adjustment distance at 100 yards.

When installing a tang-mounted peep sight, it is important to follow the correct procedure. The first step is to sight in the gun with factory sights at 100 yards. Next, adjust the peep tang sight to the middle of the windage and elevation settings. Place the sight on the tang, ensuring that all sights are aligned when looking through the peep sight aperture. Mark the holes, checking that they are centred left to right on the tang. Remove the stock and secure the gun in a vise before centre punching the holes and double-checking the alignment. To prevent errors, it is recommended to drill with an undersized drill bit (#32 or smaller) and then use a #21 drill bit and a #10-32 tap for the final drilling. Keep chips from entering the gun by using tap oil during the tapping process. Finally, remove the chips and mount the sight, shortening the screws if necessary. Reinstall the gun stock after removing it from the vise.

By following these steps and choosing the right screws for tang-mounted peep sights, owners of the Winchester Model 94 can enhance the functionality and accuracy of their rifles.

Screw kits and replacement

The Winchester Model 94 rifle has been in production since 1964 and is an iconic lever-action carbine rifle. Over time, some screws may need to be replaced due to damage or loss. Here is some detailed information about screw kits and replacements for the Winchester Model 94:

Availability of Screw Kits and Individual Screws

Midwest Gun Works offers a range of individual screws and screw kits for the Winchester Model 94. They provide replacement screws for specific parts of the rifle, such as the rear sight binding screw, front sight ramp screw, and the pad/plate screw. These screws are essential for maintaining the functionality and accuracy of the rifle.

In addition to Midwest Gun Works, other retailers like MidwayUSA offer screw kits specifically for the Winchester Model 94. The Galazan Replacement Receiver Action Screw Kit, designed for pre-1964 models, includes 18 screws to secure the receiver to the stock of the rifle. This kit ensures a secure fit and can enhance the accuracy of the rifle.

Tools for Screw Replacement

To replace screws on the Winchester Model 94, it is recommended to use a qualified gunsmith. Additionally, having the right tools is essential for successful screw replacement. One useful tool is the Grace USA 5-Piece Winchester 94 Screwdriver Set, which is designed specifically for Winchester 94 rifles and can make screw replacement much easier. This screwdriver set ensures you have the correct driver for the various screws on the rifle.

Customisation and Accessories

Beyond simple replacement, screws can also be used to customise and accessorise your Winchester Model 94. For example, screws can be used to attach scope mounts, sling swivels, and hammer extensions. These accessories can enhance the functionality and versatility of your rifle, making it more suitable for different types of shooting activities.

In conclusion, maintaining and customising your Winchester Model 94 rifle may involve the replacement or addition of screws. Whether you're looking for individual screws, screw kits, or the right tools for the job, a variety of options are available from different retailers to meet your specific needs. Remember to always handle firearms with care and seek professional assistance if needed.

Frequently asked questions