how can i find out how old is the rifle i have is it has this on the side of it hasthis ce.w.f.g.steyer 1886?

Answer 1

It sounds like a Model 1886 Styer-Mannlicher probably chambered for the 11 mm Mannlicher cartridge.

I've no idea precisely when it was made. However, it was replaced as standard by the Model 1888 Styer-Mannlicher after a very short time. It was used as a secondary standard rifle by the Austro-Hungarian Army as late as the First World War.

Does it look like this?
http://www.rememuseum.org.uk/arms/rifles/armagm/arm092.jpg
http://www.rememuseum.org.uk/arms/rifles/armagm/arm092a.jpg
If it looks like the above photos, it is an 11mm.

If it looks like this:
http://www.rememuseum.org.uk/arms/rifles/armagm/arm093.jpg
http://www.rememuseum.org.uk/arms/rifles/armagm/arm093a.jpg
It is an 8 mm M-1886-1890 Model and was used as primary issue from around 1890 through 1895.

Doc

Answer 2

Military Rifles typically have the date of manufacture on them.
Steyer made quite a few rifles so it would be hard to get specific with the info you posted. Here is a link to a Gun Collector's site with a picture or two there will be some folks there who can pin it down. Post in the Black Powder Cartridge forum:
http://surplusrifleforum.com/

Answer 3

This is a Austrian sporting rifle or military pattern? 'Steyer' seems to indicate old Austrian-Hungarian empire manufacturer. 1886 could be military model designation- is this a tube magazine bolt action about 8mm bore? Possible a 11mm bore? Maybe bolt is under-lug tilting block? Austrian G88 had box magazine, 8mm black powder(later smokeless) cartridge , prior cartridge was a 11mm black powder load.

Answer 4

Go to www.gunsamerica.com and search out what you have. This will give you a ball park estimate. or pick up a copy of "fjeysteds" blue book for guns, about $30 and it shows about everything in existence.

Answer 5

gunbroker.com, gunsamerica.com, auctionarms.com, american-firearms.com....... Check these sites for value & prices of your rifle.*

Answer 6

this should help