The .38-55 Winchester is a cartridge with a long record on deer and black bear, and Cimarron chambers its 1894 Carbine for it. A 20-inch barrel, five-round magazine, and gold-toned finish give the rifle a distinctive look.

The 1894 action, designed by Browning, is a model of slim and handy lever-gun engineering. The .38-55 is a mild-mannered round by modern standards, with moderate recoil and fair reach, and it works well with cast bullets for handloaders. Plenty of old-time hunters still prize it for brush country.

A 20-inch carbine rides easily in a scabbard or pickup, and the gold finish brightens a gun rack. Cowboy shooters will find the rifle a fun alternative on the line, particularly if they like to stand out.

Ammunition is less common than .30-30 or .45 Colt, so look ahead and buy when you see it. Wipe the finish after use, oil the action lightly, and keep the magazine tube clean. The carbine ships to your FFL dealer, and the background check is completed there before you take it home.