Winchester 1873 Sporter 44-40 Lever Action Rifle

Winchester 1873 Sporter: American Lever-Action Excellence

The Winchester 1873 Sporter represents one of the most iconic rifle designs in American firearms history. This particular model combines authentic period styling with practical modern features, making it equally at home in Cowboy Action Shooting competitions or as a working rifle for the discerning sportsman.

Design and Construction

The 1873 features a robust steel receiver finished in attractive color case hardening that evokes the rifles of the Old West. The 24-inch full octagon barrel is polished to a deep blue finish and topped with a full-length magazine tube, giving the rifle its distinctive profile.

Stock and Ergonomics

The straight-grip stock is crafted from Grade II/III walnut and finished with a satin oil that feels smooth and natural in the hand. The classic rifle-style forearm includes a steel fore-end cap, also color case hardened, for durability and authentic appearance. The color case hardened crescent buttplate completes the period-correct look.

Sights and Versatility

The rifle comes equipped with a semi-buckhorn rear sight and Marble's gold bead front sight for reliable field use. The rear tang is drilled and tapped for optional scope mounting, allowing shooters to add modern optics if desired.

Action and Loading

The smooth lever-action mechanism features a steel loading gate that provides effortless ammunition loading. The 13+1 capacity makes this rifle practical for hunting, sport shooting, and competition use.

Why the 1873?

Cowboy Action Shooters favor the 1873 because it fires the same ammunition as period-correct revolvers, streamlining ammunition logistics at the range. The superior polish and finish quality on this Sporter model sets it apart as a rifle built to last generations.