I just found this one locally...like most 73's found in this region, its in 38-40 which must have been a very popular caliber in the South during the late 19th century. This is a standard Winchester 1873 Sporting Rifle.  Made in 1889, serial number is in the 319,000 range.  Standard 24" octagon barrel, full magazine, and crescent rifle buttplate.  This rifle is a nice pure example of an 1873 rifle that hasn't been monkeyed with...in other words...untouched and original.  For starters, its in NRA antique Very Good condition.  The frame has 15% original blue mostly towards the back of the frame, around the sideplates, and in the receiver flares.  Good traces of original blue on the barrel and magazine tube mostly in the protected areas.  Balance of the metal has turned to a light grey-brown patina. Original sights include standard German silver blade front and correct Winchester semi-buckhorn rear sight.  Nice markings throughout with patent dates on the barrel, Model 1873 on the upper tang, and in spite of some dings and tap marks, a good "38 CAL" marking on the bronze loading block.  Good screws overall. Original dustcover. The wood is in fine conditon still retaining about 60-70% original varnish with the balance worn to a nice patina from good honest carry wear.  Nice tight wood to metal fit with the wood mostly still standing slightly proud of the metal just like it did when it was new.  No cracks, chips, or repairs.  Good mechanics and a Good bore...still fairly bright with good rifling and a few light scattered pits.  All in all, just a good solid example of an 1873 rifle in above average condition...a nice Southern rifle!

Item# 0285

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