Description
The Winchester M94 Short Rifle 38-55 20″ Barrel Walnut Stock W/Shotgun Style Butt Plate is a modern iteration of the classic lever-action carbine, chambered in the potent .38-55 Winchester cartridge. It features a 20-inch barrel, traditional American walnut stock, and a distinctive shotgun-style butt plate for practical handling. This rifle blends historical design with modern manufacturing for a reliable, hard-hitting platform.
Key Features
- Proven Lever-Action Design: The iconic Model 94 action is fast, smooth, and trusted for generations.
- Potent .38-55 Winchester Chambering: Delivers significant energy for hunting medium to large game at practical ranges.
- 20-Inch Barrel: Offers a balanced compromise between maneuverability in thick cover and sight radius for accurate shooting.
- American Walnut Stock: Provides a classic look and durable feel that improves with age and use.
- Shotgun-Style Butt Plate: Enhounces control and helps manage recoil, making follow-up shots quicker.
- Side Ejection: Allows for easy mounting of optics with a compatible scope base, unlike older top-eject models.
Specifications & Details
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Caliber | .38-55 Winchester |
| Barrel Length | 20 inches |
| Overall Length | Approx. 39 inches |
| Stock Material | American Walnut |
| Action Type | Lever Action |
| Butt Plate | Shotgun Style |
This rifle is built to handle the woods and fields of North America. The .38-55 cartridge, with its heavy .375″ diameter bullets, is a proven performer on deer, black bear, and even elk at sensible distances. The 20-inch barrel makes this a handy companion when you’re navigating dense timber or brush—you won’t be snagging branches every few steps. The shotgun-style butt plate isn’t just for looks; it gives you a solid, consistent anchor point against your shoulder. That said, when it comes to home defense in a rural setting, a lever-action like this offers a level of power and reliability that’s hard to match, especially where longer shots might be a consideration beyond typical shotgun range. With a price of $1033.90, it represents a tangible piece of American firearm heritage that’s ready for real-world use. An FFL transfer is required for firearm purchases, and this model ships to Missouri and compliant US states.
Who This Rifle Is For
This Winchester is for the hunter who values tradition but demands performance. It’s for the shooter who wants a capable, no-nonsense rifle for whitetail in the Missouri hardwoods or for managing property. It’s also an ideal choice for the lever-action enthusiast seeking a classic chambering that hits harder than the more common .30-30. If you appreciate mechanical simplicity and a direct connection to your tool, this rifle fits. It’s a working firearm first.
Pros & Cons
Pros: The .38-55 cartridge delivers deep penetration and ethical takedown power. The short, handy configuration is perfect for stand hunting or still-hunting in thick cover. The side-eject design is a major upgrade, allowing you to mount a scope like those from Leupold or Vortex using a standard base—no gunsmithing required. The walnut and steel construction promises durability for a lifetime of use.
Cons: Ammunition for .38-55 can be more expensive and less common than for .30-30, so planning ahead is key. The tubular magazine limits your choice of bullet shapes to flat or round noses for safety. It’s not a high-capacity platform, but then again, how many shots do you really need?
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the .38-55 Winchester suitable for modern deer hunting?
A: Absolutely. With proper load selection, the .38-55 is more than capable for deer-sized game within 150-200 yards. Its heavy bullets provide excellent penetration and energy transfer.
Q: Can I use .375 Winchester ammunition in this rifle?
A: No. The .38-55 Winchester and .375 Winchester are similar but not identical cartridges. You should only use ammunition specifically marked as .38-55 Winchester in this firearm to ensure safety and proper function.
Q: How does the recoil compare to a .30-30?
A: Recoil is subjective, but generally, the .38-55 with standard loads generates a stout, pushy recoil similar to or slightly more noticeable than a .30-30. The shotgun-style butt plate on this model does an effective job of spreading that impulse out for better control.
Ready to own a piece of practical American history? This Winchester M94 Short Rifle is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide.
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