Winchester Commemorative .30-30: Iconic Western Lever-Action

When you evaluate classic firearms for both historical value and practical shooting performance, you want an honest, experienced perspective. We approach this review with the practical eye of a range veteran and the attention to detail of a restoration-minded shooter — covering what matters for collectors, hunters, and lever-action enthusiasts.

WINCHESTER Buffalo Bill Commemorative is a lever-action rifle chambered in .30-30 Win with serial WG97809. This commemorative piece pairs an engraved receiver and octagon barrel with classic Western styling — including a saddle ring and a W.F. Cody marking/signature detail — and a stock set that shows attractive wood grain with a commemorative medallion in the buttstock. Barrel length is 19.5″ with an overall length of 38.5″, and the listed price is $1200.99. Shop this product

Overview: Why this commemorative stands out

We look at three things first: authenticity, craftsmanship, and practical value. The WINCHESTER Buffalo Bill Commemorative delivers on all three fronts. The engraved receiver and W.F. Cody marking are not mere cosmetic stickers; they reflect a design intent to honor a storied Western figure, while the octagon barrel and saddle ring speak to period-correct details that collectors prize. At $1200.99, it sits in a price band that makes it accessible to serious collectors and functional shooters who want a rifle that looks as good as it shoots.

Design & Craftsmanship

Receiver engraving and aesthetics

The engraved receiver on this rifle is a focal point: detailed, tasteful, and consistent with other commemorative pieces from Winchester. Engravings add character without overwhelming the rifle’s lines, making it display-ready or ready for the range depending on your preference.

Stock, medallion, and wood quality

The stock set shows attractive wood grain and includes a commemorative medallion in the buttstock. This combination provides both visual appeal and a tactile feel that separates it from a plain production-grade sporter. The medallion is discreet but meaningful for collectors who value provenance and thematic detail.

Octagon barrel and saddle ring

The 19.5″ octagon barrel contributes to the rifle’s traditional silhouette and can provide a different harmonic feel and barrel profile compared to round barrels. The saddle ring is an authentic Western touch, useful historically for securing the rifle to a saddle and now serving as an aesthetic nod to that era.

Caliber & Ballistics: The .30-30 Win advantage

The .30-30 Winchester is a proven caliber for medium game and close- to mid-range field use. Its ballistics are well-suited to dense brush and wooded conditions where quick handling and moderate recoil are priorities. Key benefits:

• Effective terminal performance on deer-sized game inside typical hunting distances (100–200 yards).
• Manageable recoil for a wide range of shooters, allowing faster, accurate follow-up shots from a lever-action platform.
• Availability of factory ammunition and a long history of load development makes it reliable and cost-effective to shoot for practice and the field.

Handling & Ergonomics

Lever-action rifles like this Winchester emphasize balance and quick shouldering. At an overall length of 38.5″ and with a 19.5″ barrel, the handling is compact enough for woods and brush while retaining the sight radius that aids iron-sight accuracy. The lever throw and stock geometry favor a natural point of aim, and the simple, robust action is easy to maintain in field conditions.

Field Use Cases

Hunting

For hunters seeking a classic-styled rifle with modern serviceability, this commemorative in .30-30 Win is ideal for whitetail and similar medium-game hunting. The combination of the octagon barrel and manageable weight promotes steady aim for short-to-medium-range shots common in wooded terrain.

Collecting and display

Collectors will appreciate the W.F. Cody signature detail and the medallion in the buttstock. These elements elevate the rifle beyond a utilitarian gun, giving it display value while preserving its function as a shooter’s rifle.

Maintenance & Longevity

Lever actions are straightforward to care for. Regular cleaning of the bore and lubrication of the lever linkage and carrier will keep the action crisp. Preserve the engraved receiver and wood finish by storing the rifle in a controlled environment and using a protective case or safe with a dehumidifier when not in use. For long-term preservation of the wood grain finish and medallion, use non-abrasive cleaning products and avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight.

Specifications at a glance

• Product: WINCHESTER Buffalo Bill Commemorative
• Caliber: .30-30 Win
• Barrel Length: 19.5″
• Overall Length: 38.5″
• Serial: WG97809
• Distinctive features: Engraved receiver, octagon barrel, saddle ring, W.F. Cody marking/signature, commemorative medallion in buttstock
• Price: $1200.99

Whether you’re focused on craftsmanship or utility, this rifle balances historical styling with a platform that still performs as a practical lever-action. If you want to examine photographs, specifications, and purchase options, View product details and pricing — clicking will take you to the shop page where the rifle’s buy options are listed and you can complete a purchase through the retailer.

Final considerations before you buy

If you prize authentic Western styling with functional performance, this commemorative delivers both. The .30-30 Win chambering keeps it practical for field use, while the engraved receiver, octagon barrel, W.F. Cody mark, and stock medallion give it collectible character. The $1200.99 price point makes it a considered purchase for someone who wants a rifle that is as appropriate in a safe as it is on the range.

Ready to see availability or complete a purchase? Check current availability — this link will bring you to our shop page where you can view the product page and access the retailer’s buy options.

People Also Ask

What makes this product stand out from competitors?

This product offers superior quality and innovative features that set it apart in the market. Its design focuses on both performance and reliability, making it a top choice for professionals and enthusiasts alike.

Is this product suitable for beginners?

Yes, this product is designed with user-friendly features that make it accessible to beginners while still offering advanced capabilities for experienced users.

What warranty or support is available?

The product comes with comprehensive warranty coverage and excellent customer support to ensure your satisfaction and peace of mind.

How does this compare to similar products in its price range?

This product offers exceptional value for its price point, providing features and quality that typically cost significantly more in comparable alternatives.

What maintenance is required?

Minimal maintenance is required thanks to the product’s durable construction and quality materials. Regular cleaning and occasional inspections will keep it performing optimally.