Black-powder Winchester Model 1886 lever-action cartridge. Loaded with 56 grains of black powder, it offered more power than the .38-55 in the stronger Model 1886 action. An early large-bore hunting cartridge for the first repeating rifle capable of handling real power.
Type: Rifle
Introduced: 1887, United States
Parent case: None
Standardization: None
Bullet diameter: 0.377" (9.58 mm)
Case length: 2.1" (53.34 mm)
Max pressure: 18,000 PSI
Rim type: Rimmed
Primer: Large Rifle
Typical twist rate: 1:18
Muzzle velocity: 1460–1560 fps
Muzzle energy: 1207–1378 ft-lbs
Effective range: 200 yd
Common bullet weights: 255 gr
Primary use: Hunting
Production status: Discontinued
Also known as: .38-56 WCF · 9.7x52mmR
History: Introduced in 1887 for the Winchester Model 1886, the first lever-action strong enough for full-length rifle cartridges. The .38-56 and similar cartridges were the most powerful repeating arms available before smokeless powder changed everything in the 1890s. Factory ammunition production ended in the early 20th century. Original Model 1886 rifles are significant collector pieces.
Notable firearms: Winchester Model 1886
Similar cartridges: .38-55 Winchester, .40-65 Winchester