I have a friend working on a book about Audubon Sheep and he sent me a photocopy of an old photograph showing a hunter with a huge sheep and a lever-action rifle, circa 1906. The left side of the rifle is showing. It has a full mag tube but I cannot tell if the barrel is round or octagon. But here is what is really confusing: it appears there is something on the left side of the receiver, though the more I look at it I tend to believe this is an illusion caused by damage to the original photo. What is also confusing is whether it is a straight grip or a pistol grip. The grip appears straight but the lever is shaped as if to conform to a pistol grip. The butt plate is in the snow so no clues there. In my research I've found no models with anything but a smooth left side on the receiver.
The old photo is titled "Gomer Baldwin, circa 1906, Rosebud Canyon, Montana."
Any thoughts anyone?

No clue about the rifle, but there was a such animal as the Audubon Sheep, believed to be extinct now. Similar to the Bighorn sheep, but larger in base horn measurement and body size.

Can you post a scan of the picture?

Aleyeska - the photocopy is too poor for a scan. I am pretty sure the rifle is a Winchester Model 1886. And yes, we have several Audubon heads preserved in this area including one full body mount.

The rifle you described sounds like a "76". The 1876 Winchester was a favorite for many hunters of that era including former President Teddy. He favored the 45-75 cartridge. You can view his custom 1876 at the National Park museum near Medora, N. Dakota.

Don't let a non-hunter corner you into an arguement that this species was over hunted. Audobon sheep became extinct because of wide spread hoof and mouth disease. A domestic sheep disease of that time. Sad but true.
TR

Sunday,
Is it possible that it is a Lyman receiver sight? I have Win mod 1895 that has a Lyman receiver sight on it. It attaches to the Left side of the receiver. It is nothing like the newer Lyman sights. I could email you a picture if you like.

Big Medicine - I would appreciate a photo of your receiver sight. I'd considered that, but didn't know what receiver sights of that era looked like. And yes, it could be a '73. I told my friend he should send a photo copy to Mike Venturino and gave him Venturino's address.