Performance-wise, the Model 1895 featured a muzzle velocity of 2,560 feet per second with an effective range out to 600 yards and as far out (maximum range) as 2,000 yards. Sighting was through a bladed front with a U-notch rear and adjustable for windage and elevation.
The major difference between the Model 1895 and its bolt-action contemporaries was the Model 1895's use of the "cam-action" system. Unlike the bolt-action types, the Model 1895 had a bolt that did not rotate in the action and was, instead, locked to the receiver through the cam-action and managed via a cam handle sitting over the right side of the gun. In appearance, this mimicked a true bolt-action to a high degree, though no so much in general operation. In practice, while expected to become a quicker action for rifleman in the heat-of-battle, it ended up being an awkward stroke for many.
Actual military service eventually proved the shortcomings of the Winchester Lee design despite the rifle being of solid construction and functionality. The more traditional - and widely available - turn-bolt action style rifles grew in the marketplace and quickly overshadowed alternative approaches like the Winchester Lee to the point that little were actually ever put into circulation. A commercial sporting version even failed to net required sales for continuation of the line. As such, the United States Navy revaluated their service rifle and decided against procuring the rest of their initial 100,000 unit request.
As its name suggests, production of the rifle began in 1895 though total manufacture became just 15,000 units by the end of the story. These did, however, go on to see some military service (with the US Navy and Marines) during the period of 1895 into 1907 through several notable conflicts including the Spanish-American War (1898), the Boxer Rebellion (1899-1901), the Philippine-American War (1899-1902) and the Moro Rebellion (1899-1913).
The rifle's formal name was "Lee Rifle, Model of 1895, Caliber 6mm".
Content ©MilitaryFactory.com; No Reproduction Permitted.