Description
The Taylor’s 1873 Lever .45 LC, 24.25″ Octagon Barrel, Walnut Straight Stock, Case Hardened Receiver, Blued is a faithful reproduction of the classic Winchester rifle. It’s a budget-conscious entry into the world of authentic cowboy action shooting and hunting, offering classic aesthetics and reliable function at a price point that undercuts many competitors. This rifle is designed for the shooter who values tradition and practicality without a custom shop price tag.
Key Features
- Classic 1873 Lever-Action Replica: Authentic toggle-link action for a true Old West feel.
- Case Hardened Receiver & Blued Finish: Traditional two-tone finish for visual appeal and corrosion resistance.
- 24.25″ Octagon Barrel: Provides excellent sight radius and classic heft for steady shooting.
- Walnut Straight Stock: Durable, classic hardwood furniture with a no-frills, practical profile.
- Chambered in .45 Long Colt: A versatile, low-recoil cartridge suitable for target shooting, plinking, and hunting.
Specifications & Details
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Caliber | .45 Long Colt (.45 LC) |
| Barrel | 24.25″ Octagon, Blued |
| Overall Length | Approx. 43.5″ |
| Weight | Approx. 8.5 lbs |
| Action | Lever-Action |
| Stock | American Walnut, Straight Grip |
| Finish | Case Hardened Receiver, Blued Barrel |
Here’s the thing—at $1110.51, this Taylor’s 1873 sits in a sweet spot. It’s significantly more affordable than many boutique reproductions, yet it delivers the core experience. The rifle’s 8.5 lb weight, largely due to that long octagon barrel, aids in managing the mild recoil of the .45 LC cartridge. The straight-grip walnut stock is a classic choice, offering a different handling feel than a pistol-grip model. This rifle is drop-in ready for your local range or hunting lease, requiring no immediate modifications to function reliably. It’s a straightforward, no-nonsense firearm built on a proven design.
Who This Rifle Is For
This model is ideal for the budget-minded traditionalist. It’s perfect for the new cowboy action shooter looking for a compliant rifle without a massive initial investment. Hunters pursuing deer or boar at moderate ranges with a period-correct firearm will appreciate its power and accuracy. It’s also a great choice for the casual plinker or history enthusiast who wants a tangible piece of the Old West on their wall—and at the range. The .45 LC caliber is mild to shoot and relatively inexpensive to reload, adding to its long-term value proposition.
Pros & Cons
Pros: The primary advantage is cost. You get the iconic 1873 look and feel without a premium price. The .45 LC is a low-pressure, easy-shooting round. The 24.25″ barrel provides a smooth swing and inherent accuracy. The case coloring and blued steel offer classic good looks that improve with age. It’s a simple, mechanical design known for durability.
Cons: The trade-off for the lower price often comes in fit and finish details—expect functional machining but not exhibition-grade polish. The long octagon barrel makes the rifle muzzle-heavy, which some shooters may find cumbersome for off-hand shooting. Ammunition cost for .45 LC is higher than for common calibers like .38 Special if you don’t reload. The straight stock may not fit all shooters as ergonomically as a pistol grip.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is this rifle ready for Cowboy Action Shooting competitions?
A: Absolutely. In its stock configuration, this Taylor’s 1873 in .45 LC meets the requirements for most SASS (Single Action Shooting Society) categories. Its 24.25″ barrel and straight stock are period-correct for many classes. You may want to slick up the action over time, but it’s competition-ready out of the box.
Q: Can I use modern .45 Colt ammunition in it?
A: Yes, modern factory .45 Long Colt ammunition is perfectly safe and designed for these replicas. Stick to standard pressure loads for the best longevity and performance. The rifle’s toggle-link action is strong but is best suited to pressures appropriate for its 19th-century design origins.
Q: How does it compare to a Uberti or Cimarron 1873?
A: Taylor’s & Co. often sources their firearms from reputable manufacturers like Uberti. The difference usually lies in specific finish options, distributor branding, and minor features. At this price point, you’re getting the same core Italian-made reproduction quality. It’s wise to compare the exact specs—barrel length, stock shape, finish—against other brands to find the best value, which this model often represents.
This rifle represents a solid value for a specific kind of shooter. It delivers the iconic 1873 experience—the smooth lever throw, the satisfying clunk of the action, the classic profile—without demanding a premium for fancy engraving or ultra-fitted parts. It’s a working man’s piece of history. The rifle is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide, with an FFL transfer required for firearm purchases. If you’ve been wanting a true lever-action carbine but balked at the prices, this Taylor’s model is a practical place to start.
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