Winchester Model 1873

Known as "The Gun that Won the West," this lever-action rifle was ubiquitous on the American frontier.

Specifications

Manufacturer: Winchester Repeating Arms Company
Year: 1885
Type: Lever-action rifle
Caliber: .44-40 WCF
Origin: United States
Length: 43.25 inches
Barrel: 24 inches
Weight: 9.25 lbs
Capacity: 15 rounds
Action: Lever-action
Finish: Case-hardened receiver, blued barrel
Condition: Very Good - excellent bore, strong mechanics
Serial Number: 285472

Historical Context

Introduced in 1873, the Winchester Model 1873 became the most popular rifle of the Old West era. This 1885 example represents the golden age of westward expansion. Chambered in .44-40 WCF, it shared ammunition with the popular Colt Single Action Army revolver, making it a practical choice for frontiersmen, ranchers, and lawmen. The Model 1873 saw service in the Indian Wars, was carried by legendary figures like Buffalo Bill Cody, and became deeply embedded in American frontier mythology. Over 720,000 were produced between 1873 and 1919.