It was a great honor to collaborate with actor Tom Selleck on a special Winchester 1886 in .50-110. Emblazoned on the rifle’s butt stock, the numbers “163” are engraved in a gold insert to commemorate the 163rd episode mark of Tom’s long-running TV series Blue Bloods. This surpasses the number of episodes Tom filmed for the iconic Magnum P.I. series. The antique lever gun – originally built in 1889 – was fully restored, outfitted with numerous customizations, and converted to 22” take-down by a team of craftsmen at Turnbull Restoration. Doug Turnbull then traveled to New York City to meet Tom on-set and personally deliver it.
We thank Tom Selleck for his friendship and collaboration, and for his hospitality as we delivered the commemorative ’86. We also extend our sincere thanks to Phil Schreier, Senior Curator, NRA Museums, and Peter Fountain, NRA Photography Director, for joining us in the presentation as well as for the great coverage of the event. You can read their recently-published story in American Rifleman.
Stay tuned for a photo essay that documents the full restoration, customization and conversion process of Tom Selleck’s special Winchester 1886. UPDATE: You can now view this story by clicking here.
Tom Selleck, is a truly great actor. I feel a huge sense of pride and incredibly lucky to have grown up watching the many shows and movies in which he participated. The restoration piece is absolutely stunning and nobody deserves it more than Tom. Great job guys ,now we just need to restore him an original Sharps and bring out the Quigley in him. All kidding aside , a beautiful piece for an extra special human being.
Thanks, Robert!
Even though I have never met either Doug or Tom in person, I would consider it a joy a privilege to share a manly handshake with these two masters of their craft; thanks for sharing the photos of this special occasion.
Each and very time I visit the website I’m intrigued by the beauty and workmanship of what I see; it is most unique and always a pleasure to see. I’m hoping I can go visit Steve Lester, Doug and his amazing staff in the future, Lord willing and we have the freedom to travel, (who knows how long that will continue since the communists have infiltrated our White House and Congress) I plan to go there soon and can’t wait to see the variety of incredible firearms first hand.
Like Tom, I know the pleasure of owning a Turnbull rifle, a ‘ 92 Winchester in a .44 magnum; Steve Lester worked hard to fulfill my hopes of owning a prized Turnbull rifle, and I couldn’t be more satisfied eith my piece! Each time I hold it I’m reminded of the the exhilaration of owning treasure and my heart travels back to yesteryear and the excitement of Christmas morning when I unwrapped a gift box containing my Sheridan Blue Streak air rifle; both are the things my dreams are made of!
Keep up the great work, long may you run!