1873 Winchester Rifle in .32wcf…………………..SOLD

Winchester 73′ Rifle  in .32-20 (32 wcf)

Of standard Winchester third type production for 1888.  Serial number marked on lower tang behind lever securing fitting is 257596B.  Overall length 43″.  Barrel length 24.1/4″.  trigger pull 12.3/4″. This 73′ has the full length Octagonal barrel with the caliber marked on the top flat just in front of the breech “32 W.C.F.”  Which is also known as .32-20.  This is in fact a much underrated caliber and is a complete pleasure to shoot.  The weight of the rifle soaks up just enough recoil for the shooter to really feel the shot without it being uncomfortable and the accuracy achieved with this insignificant looking round can be quite impressive.  Out of all the Winchesters and Marlins the author has put through their paces this has to rank as the best in that it gives the best feeling of the Spirit of the Original,  to coin a phrase.  The balance, the action, and then the results give best testament to that.

This particular rifle displays a wonderful wood to metal fit on all parts, all the mating surfaces are sharp and clean, although this is still in the original stocks.  Dark American walnut for-end and butt stock with the classic Winchester crescent moon steel butt plate and the steel capped for-end.  The stock shows a light degree of handling marks, but nothing serious that would detract from its looks or feel.

The third type model of 1873 Winchester incorporates the rail for the sliding dust cover on top of the action.  It has the classic Winchester side panels on the action. The sprung loading gate has a much stronger blue about it and is most likely a replacement.   None of the screws on the action, butt-plate or steel fore-end cap show any signs of being damaged from unprofessional disturbance.  Nearly all the metal surfaces of the rifle have lost their blued finish and have now turned to an even grey patina which has the feeling of a polished surface only achieved through the passage of some considerable years.  The buck-horn rear sights have the most finish on them and therefore may be a replacement.  The fore sight has a brass bead rear which picks up the light nicely in failing light.

The top flat of the barrel in marked with the following: “WINCHESTERS REPEATING ARMS. NEW HAVEN. CONN. U.S.A.”  over ” – KINGS IMPROVEMENT PATENTED MARCH 29. 1866. OCTOBER 16. 1860 -“  Although the finish is lacking the text is clear and easily legible.

The top tang is marked with the model designation “MODEL 1873”.  Other components on the rifle which have turned to a pleasing dark brown patina include the smooth trigger and the under-lever.  The action works well including the under-lever safety feature, which requires the lever to be firmly gripped in order for the hammer to be allowed to fall.  When fully cocked the flat inside face of the hammer shows some strong case hardening colours.  The bore shows mild frosting and light pitting but has reasonable rifling for a weapon of this age.  The underside of the brass cartridge lifter is clearly inscribed with “32 CAL.” which would be clearly visible in any wall mounted gunrack…..(in any Sherrifs office or ranch …)  This is a classic Winchester which still has enough life left in it to be taken out and put through its paces on Sundays and special occasions.

Stock code: f 275

£1990….SOLD

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