Winchester 1873 Rifle in .44 WCF

This is a very nice Model 1873 Winchester Rifle that we picked up in Oklahoma. It has a nice look to it with lots of original finish remaining and is 100% original down to the smallest screw. Antique pre-1898 serial number is in the 327,000 range and was built in 1890. Caliber is 44-40 with a 24" octagon barrel, full magazine, and crescent rifle buttplate w/ trapdoor. This is a highly sought after configuration for the Model 1873. Nice markings throughout including the two-line Winchester Barrel Address with Henry's 1860 and King's 1866 patent dates. The markings are very strong but a bit dirty with many years of accumulated crud and grease down in the lettering. See photo. Upper tang is marked "MODEL 1873" bracketed by a pair of fleurs-de-lis. Barrel is marked "44 W.C.F." just in front of the receiver and a nice "44 CAL" in script across the brass loading block. Original sights include the standard front with German silver blade and standard semi-buckhorn rear that has never been filed down or altered.

Condition: This one grades to NRA Antique Fine overall. The receiver shows 50% original blue that is strongest in the protected areas (around the hammer, flares, sideplates, and lower tang) and more of a thinning mixture of blue and patina across the flats. Loading port shows strong traces of fire blue. Brass loading block has a great mellow patina with clear markings. There are a couple of small initials (about 1/4 inch high) scratched just behind the left side plate. Hammer shows 25% faded case colors on the outer surfaces with brilliant color down the face inside the action (see photo). Lever shows 20% case colors in protected areas with brilliant color exposed at the fulcrum when the action is open. Magazine tube retains 50% original blue. Barrel has 20% discernable original blue with balance what I'd call an age darkened blue. Rear sight still shows about 70% original blue. Fine screws overall. Nice original walnut stock and forend are in Fine Condition Overall showing lots of grain after having spent many years in a semi-arid climate. Walnut has no chips, cracks, or repairs, and nice wood to metal fit that isn't undersized. The mechanics on this 1873 are Excellent and show very little use. For an 1873, this rifle cycles as smoothly and positively as you'll ever find. Internally, there is still original blue on the rear of the bolt and inside the sideplates while the toggle links still show most of their original brightness. Bore is Excellent with strong lands and grooves that are bright with no corrosion, rings, or bulges. This is a great chance to own a Winchester Model 1873 in the most desirable caliber and barrel configuration. Wish there were more of them out there like this one.

Item# 1796

SOLD