I purchased a new Winchester (Miroku) 1892 Trapper Takedown Deluxe (.45 Colt) back in late December. It had minor scratches in the CC finish, the lever was slightly bent (a tad off center when closed), had small dings/ dimples on the edges of the lever and it would not “takedown” - it was like the two pieces were welded together.
I called Winchester (Arnold, MO), stated my concerns - they issued me a return label back to Morgan, UT. I sent the rifle off in early January and I just received it back early this week. The rifle returned with all concerns/ detail repaired to new condition. The rifle was initially disappointing but to Winchester’s credit, they backed their product with excellent repair detail - the rifle is now pristine new.
I like Winchester products and I have always had high regards for Miroku quality but, I am starting to wonder. I purchased an 1873 about three years ago that had less but similar cosmetic problems but, a trip back to Winchester made the rifle pristine. About two years ago - same story with an M70 EW - cosmetic challenges, back to Winchester, returned pristine.
I am sure that COVID caused QC challenges with many companies; my ‘92 may have been COVID related but how are the other two rifles explained - poor QC from Japan and Portugal? - I do not know. I do know that all of the rifles were made right with the headache and cost (to Winchester) of a second trip - I am very happy with all of the rifles but I would think that Winchester needs to improve their QC - their designs/ engineering/ manufacturing is (to me) impressive but final processes need some fine tuning.