Description
Picture this: you’re on a Missouri ridgeline at first light, the air crisp and still. A prairie dog town stretches out 200 yards below. You need a rifle that can reach out with surgical precision, that makes the first shot the only shot. That’s the scenario where the Winchester 1885 Low Wall Hunter, 17 Win Super Mag 24″ Barrel, Walnut Stock isn’t just a tool—it’s the right tool for the job. This is a modern single-shot rifle built for the disciplined shooter who values a clean, reliable break-action and a flat-shooting, hyper-velocity cartridge.
Here’s the thing—the 1885 Low Wall Hunter is a purpose-built varmint and small game rifle. It’s a faithful recreation of John Browning’s original falling block action, updated for today’s shooter. Chambered in the blistering 17 Winchester Super Magnum, it launches a 20-grain projectile at over 3,000 feet per second. That translates to a laser-flat trajectory and devastating terminal performance on pests out to 300 yards. The rifle’s classic lines and American walnut stock conceal a seriously capable platform. At a price point of $1056.27, it offers traditional craftsmanship with modern ballistic performance.
Key Features & Practical Performance
The heart of this rifle is the low-wall action. It’s simpler and stronger than many bolt-actions, with a massive, solid breechblock that locks up like a vault. When it comes to reliability in the field, this design is proven. The manual cocking indicator and crisp, single-stage trigger give you complete control over the shot. The 24-inch sporter contour barrel is free-floated within the forend, promoting consistent accuracy shot after shot. This rifle is drop-in ready for optics, featuring a drilled and tapped receiver ready for standard scope bases, like those from Leupold or Warne.
Let’s talk about the 17 WSM cartridge. It fills the gap between the 17 HMR and the 223 Remington, offering significantly more punch and range than the former without the report and cost of the latter. It’s a rimfire cartridge that thinks it’s a centerfire. The rifle’s weight, a manageable 7.3 lbs, and the classic straight-grip stock design make it a steady platform for those long shots. The satin finish on the walnut and the blued steel aren’t just for show—they provide durable protection against the elements during a long day afield.
Specifications
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model | 1885 Low Wall Hunter |
| Caliber | 17 Winchester Super Magnum (17 WSM) |
| Barrel Length | 24 Inches |
| Overall Length | 41.5 Inches |
| Weight | 7.3 lbs |
| Stock | American Walnut |
| Action | Single Shot, Falling Block |
| Trigger | Single Stage |
Pros & Cons
Pros: Exceptional accuracy potential from a solid, simple action. The 17 WSM cartridge offers outstanding long-range performance for a rimfire. The classic walnut and blued steel construction provides timeless aesthetics and durability. The single-shot design encourages shot discipline and conservation of ammunition.
Cons: As a single-shot, it’s not for high-volume, rapid-fire scenarios. Ammunition for the 17 WSM, while potent, is more specialized and can be less available than 22 LR or 223 Remington. The straight-grip stock may require a slight adjustment in hold for shooters used to modern pistol grips.
Who Is This Rifle For?
This rifle is for the varminter, the prairie dog shooter, or the small game hunter who values precision over volume. It’s for the shooter who enjoys the ritual of loading a single round, taking a careful aim, and making that shot count. It’s also an excellent choice for a young shooter’s first centerfire-like experience, teaching fundamentals without heavy recoil. It’s a rifle that rewards skill and patience. This model is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide, following all applicable regulations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the 17 WSM suitable for coyotes?
A: With proper shot placement and within reasonable ranges (inside 150 yards), the 17 WSM is capable for coyotes. However, for dedicated predator hunting where longer shots or quicker follow-ups are needed, a small centerfire cartridge like the 223 Remington is often a more versatile choice.
Q: What scope magnification is recommended for this rifle?
A: Given the rifle’s long-range potential for its caliber, a variable scope in the 4-12x or 6-18x range is ideal. This allows for precise shot placement at extended distances while providing a wider field of view for locating targets. A quality scope is essential to harness the rifle’s accuracy.
Q: What’s the main advantage of a single-shot action like the 1885?
A: The primary advantages are mechanical simplicity, inherent strength, and often superior accuracy. There’s no magazine to influence the barrel harmonics, and the solid breech provides an extremely rigid platform for the cartridge. It forces deliberate shooting—a benefit for training and hunting ethics.
If the discipline of a single, precise shot on a distant target defines your kind of hunting, the Winchester 1885 Low Wall Hunter in 17 WSM is a rifle built for your mission. See full details and availability on our site.
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