Originally known as the “Improved Henry” due to its patented loading gate on the side of the frame, designed by Nelson King, Winchester’s plant superintendent, and the addition of a wood forearm, the 1866 model was known as the “Yellow Boy” by the Native Americans, because of its brass frame. The ’66 model was the first true cowboy lever-action and the first that adapted well to carrying in a saddle scabbard, due to its slab sided design. With over 170,000 made between 1866-1898–it’s popularity continued long after more powerful lever guns were introduced. The ’66 model was famous worldwide, with guns used by the forces of Benito Juarez in Mexico, the Turkish army in their fight against the Russians and in the Wild West by such notables as Sioux Medicine Man Sitting Bull, the Union Pacific’s chief engineer, General Grenville Dodge, and desperado Bill Doolin.

Cimarron offers several 1866 Yellowboys, such as the 24-inch barreled Sporting Rifle, a 20-inch Short Rifle (both of these models sport octagon barrels), round barreled carbines including the 19-inch saddle ring carbine, a brass tack-decorated 19-inch “Pawnee” carbine and a 16-inch Trapper model. No matter which model you select you can be proud to own one of Cimarron’s true, handsome Old West classics!