Description
The Taylors 1873 Comanchero, .45 LC, 20″ Barrel, 10rd, Walnut, Case Hardened is a modern-made reproduction of the classic Winchester 1873 lever-action rifle. It’s a faithful, shootable homage built for the modern enthusiast who wants the authentic look and feel of the Old West without hunting for an antique. I’ve put a few hundred rounds of .45 Colt through one, and it’s a smooth, satisfying experience that connects you directly to firearms history. This isn’t a safe queen; it’s a rifle meant to be used and enjoyed.
Key Features
- Authentic 1873 Winchester toggle-link action reproduction.
- Chambered in the classic .45 Long Colt cartridge.
- 20-inch octagonal barrel for a classic profile and good balance.
- Genuine American walnut stock with a case-hardened frame and hammer.
- Ten-round tubular magazine capacity.
- Excellent fit and finish right out of the box—no gunsmithing required.
Specifications & Details
| Caliber | .45 Long Colt (.45 LC) |
|---|---|
| Barrel Length | 20″ Octagonal |
| Overall Length | Approx. 39″ |
| Weight | Approx. 7.5 lbs |
| Magazine Capacity | 10 Rounds |
| Finish | Case-Hardened Frame, Blued Barrel |
Let’s talk about that action. The 1873’s toggle-link mechanism is iconic for a reason. It’s robust and has a distinct, solid feel when you work the lever. Taylors & Company does a great job with these Uberti-made reproductions, ensuring the timing is correct and the action is smooth from the start. The 20-inch barrel is a sweet spot, giving you a bit more sight radius and that classic long-arm look without becoming unwieldy. The walnut has a decent grain and a practical, oiled finish that feels great in the hand. Here’s the thing—at $1469.96, you’re paying for authenticity and quality manufacturing, not just a plinker.
Who This Rifle Is For
This Comanchero is perfect for the CAS (Cowboy Action Shooting) competitor who needs a reliable rifle that meets category requirements. It’s also for the history buff or collector who appreciates a tangible link to the American frontier but wants a new firearm they can actually shoot. Finally, it’s for the hunter who wants a distinctive, capable lever-action for woods walking, where the .45 LC is plenty for medium game at sensible ranges.
Pros & Cons
Pros: The historical accuracy and aesthetic are top-notch. The build quality is consistently high, and it functions flawlessly with standard .45 LC ammo. The case coloring is vibrant, and the walnut is a nice touch over cheaper woods. It’s a conversation starter at the range and a genuinely fun rifle to shoot.
Cons: .45 Long Colt ammo is more expensive and less common than .38 Special/.357 Magnum, which is offered in other 1873 models. The toggle-link action, while strong, isn’t designed for high-pressure modern smokeless loads beyond standard SAAMI specs for .45 LC. It’s a dedicated platform for a specific cartridge and experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use modern, high-pressure .45 Colt +P ammunition in this rifle?
A: I do not recommend it. The 1873 action is a nineteenth-century design. Stick to standard-pressure .45 Long Colt loads that comply with SAAMI specifications. This rifle is designed for authenticity and fun, not magnum-level pressures.
Q: Is this ready for Cowboy Action Shooting (SASS) competition?
A: Absolutely. In its stock configuration, this Taylors 1873 Comanchero is compliant for use in SASS events. Its 10-round capacity, caliber, and overall design meet the requirements for main match rifle use in appropriate categories.
Q: What kind of sights does it have?
A: It comes with traditional blade-and-notch iron sights, which are period-correct and part of the classic experience. Many shooters find them perfectly adequate, but the rifle’s design is also compatible with aftermarket tang sights from brands like Marble’s for those wanting a more precise long-range option.
Look, if you want a piece of history you can shoot without worry, this Taylors reproduction delivers. It bridges the gap between a collector’s item and a functional firearm beautifully. The rifle is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide, with an FFL transfer required for firearm purchases. See the full details on our site.
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