Oliver Winchester was initially involved in the clothing business before he became interested in firearms. His company, the New Haven Arms Company, produced the Henry rifle, which was one of the first successful repeating rifles. Following the success of the Henry rifle, Winchester recognized the potential for expanding the production of advanced firearms. In 1866, he founded the Winchester Repeating Arms Company, which focused on manufacturing repeating firearms that were easier and faster to operate than single-shot rifles of that time.

Under Winchester's leadership, the company introduced several influential models, including the famous Winchester Model 1873, often referred to as 'the gun that won the West.' This model was particularly popular because of its innovative lever-action mechanism, allowing for rapid firing without manual reloading after every shot. The gun became emblematic of the American frontier and was widely preferred among settlers, ranchers, and soldiers.

The Winchester Repeating Arms Company not only produced firearms but also implemented effective marketing strategies that boosted its popularity. Winchester marketed its products with a strong emphasis on reliability and performance, which resonated with consumers and military buyers alike. As the company grew, it contributed significantly to the United States' gun manufacturing industry and played a crucial role in shaping American gun culture throughout the late 19th century.