M14 Forum

echokilo60

i have ran across a 92 winchester in .256 winchester.it was obviously converted to this cal. has pat. arms. mfg.co.,winterset iowa stamped on top of barrel in front of receiver.the barrel is wincester with 256 stamped in front of the word model on barrel.anyone know anything about these conversions. it is in great shape,good bore,nice wood probably 80 percent blue.it is possible that barrel was reblued at time of conversion but it is hard to tell.the receiver is definately original finish.any input appreciated,thanks.

bmcgilvray

Wonder if the original .25-20 barrel was rechambered for .256 Winchester.

From a strictly handloading basis, the .256 Winchester conversion to a Winchester Model 92 could be interesting and entertaining to feed and shoot. Somewhat improved ballistics could be attained over original .25-20 figures. The round would be fun and useful and actually pretty inexpensive to feed after one gathered a die set and a supply of cases.

From a practicality standpoint, the .256 conversion would be a bit of a white elephant except to the dedicated handloader, a person who will relish overcoming all obstacles to shoot an offbeat or obsolete caliber. The .25-20 is at least still barely alive as a current factory offering and cartridge cases are more generally available. The .256 is no longer produced as far as I know and supplies of factory ammunition and brass are hard to scare up. The .256 was developed from the .357 Magnum cartridge case but it's suppose to be a devilish case to make if reforming from .357 Magnum brass.

Of course the .256 conversion diminishes the value of the Winchester rifle for the serious collector. The rifle would need to be priced downward accordingly, since it's greatest value would be for it's suitability for use. If the seller is still trying to get Winchester Model 92 collectors' prices for the rifle in its altered state then he's barking up the wrong tree. A true Winchester collector and aficionado would turn up his nose at the rifle due to its non-originality. Only a very few shooters would be interested in playing with the uncommon .256 cartridge leaving a seller with a rifle with limited appeal. It would need to be "bought right" to be worthwhile.