Given the historic breakthroughs achieved with the Henry rifle, Winchester improved on its design to make it even more useful on both the range and the battlefield. In 1866, they introduced Nelson King's patented spring-steel loading gate, as well as a wood forend for added comfort. These changes led to the creation of  the "Yellowboy," the earliest version of the quintessential cowboy rifle whose lines and basic functioning survive to this day.

Model: 1866 Yellowboy Rifle

Model Description: Short Rifle

Caliber: .45 Colt

Action: Lever

Barrel Length: 20"

Receiver Finish: Brass

Magazine Capacity: 10+1

Stock Finish: A-Grade Walnut

Frame Finish: Brass

Barrel: Octagonal

Barrel Finish: Blue

Butt Plate Finish: Brass

Lever Finish: Case-Hardened

Number of Grooves: 6

Twist Rate: 1:16, RH

Overall Length: 43.25"

Avg. Weight: 8.2 lbs 

Features:

• The satin walnut forend is embellished with a brass forend nose cap.

• Features a distinctive solid brass receiver.

• Features a side loading gate—one of the major improvements over the 1860 Henry.