This specific cartridge was introduced by Winchester Repeating Arms Company for their Model 1892 lever-action rifle. It is a centerfire cartridge featuring a .25 caliber bullet and typically using 20 grains of smokeless powder. Historically, this combination provided a relatively flat trajectory and moderate recoil suitable for small to medium-sized game.
The Model 1892 chambered for this round gained popularity among hunters and shooters due to its manageable recoil, lever-action speed, and the cartridge’s effectiveness on varmints and deer-sized game. Its historical context lies in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, where it filled a niche for a light, fast-handling rifle suitable for the American West. While not as prevalent today as more modern cartridges, it maintains a dedicated following among enthusiasts of classic firearms and historical shooting sports.