First off, it has the much hated tang safety which was introduced only a few years before U.S. Repeating Arms, who purchased Winchester, shut down production in 2006. Personally, I can understand that it is not the "traditional" safety mechanism. Of course, their were no "safeties" on the original design so I fully understand why their collector value would be mostly non existent. But hell, it is still a very handy little carbine and one can't buy a new one any more. Or is that true? It will never be like the coveted old timers.
I have read that Fabrique Nationale bought the Winchester brand and perhaps is producing "Winchester type" leverguns somewhere overseas. Of course, they would still be clones. Perhaps someone on this forum would fill in the blanks or shed some light on this here subject.
Anyhow, it feels nice to have my Colt SAA in my holster that's chambered in .45 Colt while having my Winchester Trapper, chambered in the same caliber, slung on my shoulder. Even if some perfectionist gives me a look of derision. Just sayin!
