This is a 3rd Model 1873 Sporting Rifle in 44-40 Caliber with a standard 24" round barrel, full magazine, and crescent buttplate w/sliding brass trapdoor for storing cleaning utensils.  Antique Pre-1898 serial number is in the 207,000 range which dates it manufacture to the year 1886.  This rifle is complete with original sights and dust cover. 

Overall condition is NRA Antique VG++ to Fine with 35% thinning original blued finish remaining on the frame with the balance turned to a light brown to grey patina.  Traces of original fire blue on the loading port. The barrel, magazine tube, and forend cap show 20% original blue mostly in protected areas.  The hammer  has some faded-out but still discernable case colors showing while the lever has mostly faded out to silver and are mixed with patina.  This rifle has Great markings which include the 2 line Winchester barrel address w/Henry's 1860 and King's 1866 Patent dates.  Top of barrel in front of frame is marked in script, "44 CAL" as is the bronze loading block.  Upper tang is marked "MODEL 1873" bordered w/2 Fleur-de-lis.  Original sights include the standard semi-buckhorn rear sight and standard front w/German silver blade.  Screws overall are Excellent...not a bad one to be found anywhere!  The wood on this rifle is in Very Good condition with mostly light handling marks. The walnut shows lots of grain with nice edges and profiles.  Its never been sanded or cleaned and the wood to metal fit is perfect w/nice square edges.  The action still cycles nicely and the lever snaps shut.  Bore is in Fine condition...still fairly bright with nice rifling and only a few minor pits which are to be found on most any 19th century black powder weapon.  No rings or bulges.  A very solid example of an 1880's vintage Model 1873 in .44 Caliber that still shows some original finish.

Item# 0611

SOLD