Description
The Uberti 1866 Yellowboy Short Rifle in .45 Colt is a faithful, budget-conscious reproduction of the iconic Winchester lever-action rifle. It delivers classic Old West aesthetics and reliable function at a price point well below many custom or premium replicas, making historical shooting accessible. This 20-inch barrel model offers a great balance of handling and historical accuracy for the value-focused shooter.
Key Features
- Authentic 1866 Winchester “Yellowboy” design with brass receiver.
- Chambered in the versatile and widely available .45 Colt cartridge.
- 20-inch octagonal barrel provides a classic look and improved balance over longer models.
- Lever-action mechanism is smooth and reliable right out of the box.
- Affordable entry into historical firearms compared to originals or higher-end custom builds.
Specifications & Details
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Caliber | .45 Colt |
| Barrel Length | 20 inches |
| Overall Length | Approx. 39 inches |
| Capacity | 13+1 rounds |
| Action | Lever Action |
| Finish | Blued barrel, Brass receiver |
Weighing in around 8 pounds, this rifle has a solid, substantial feel that helps manage the .45 Colt’s recoil. The tubular magazine holds 13 rounds, giving you plenty of shots before a reload. At a price of $1048.75, it sits in a sweet spot—more affordable than many custom cowboy guns but built with the quality Uberti is known for. It’s a practical choice for someone who wants the look and feel without a museum-grade price tag. Look, you’re getting a piece of history you can actually afford to shoot.
Who This Rifle Is For
This Yellowboy is perfect for the budget-minded CAS (Cowboy Action Shooting) competitor needing a reliable main match rifle. It’s also ideal for the history enthusiast who wants a tangible connection to the 19th century without the fragility and cost of an original. Hunters looking for a unique, short-range woods rifle in .45 Colt will find its handling superb. Finally, it’s a great choice for any shooter who appreciates the mechanical artistry of a lever gun and wants a durable replica that’s ready for the range.
Pros & Cons
Pros: The brass receiver and classic lines offer undeniable aesthetic appeal and historical charm. The .45 Colt caliber is manageable, fun to shoot, and reloadable for cost savings. Uberti’s reputation for solid reproductions means good out-of-the-box reliability. Compared to an original Winchester 1866, this is a fraction of the cost and you can shoot it without guilt.
Cons: As a reproduction, it lacks the collector value of an original antique. The .45 Colt, while versatile, isn’t a long-range powerhouse—that’s just the nature of the cartridge. Some finishes may not be as durable as modern coatings, but that’s the trade-off for authenticity. It’s a niche firearm, so is it the right tool for every job? No, but it excels at its intended roles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is this rifle ready to shoot right away?
A: Yes, it is drop-in ready. It comes complete and requires no gunsmithing to function safely. Just ensure you use appropriate .45 Colt ammunition—standard pressure loads are recommended for longevity and smooth operation.
Q: Can I use modern .45 Colt ammunition in it?
A: Absolutely. It is designed for standard-pressure factory .45 Colt loads, which are widely available from brands like Winchester, Remington, and Federal. Avoid +P or high-pressure loads intended only for modern, strengthened revolvers.
Q: How does it compare to a Henry or Rossi lever gun?
A: The Uberti 1866 is a more historically specific replica. Modern Henry rifles offer similar function but with updated features like side-loading gates on some models. Rossi’s reproductions are often at a lower price point, but the Uberti generally has a fit and finish edge, justifying its position in the market.
This Uberti 1866 Yellowboy Short Rifle represents a solid value for a historically significant firearm. It blends authentic looks with reliable performance at a price that lets you enjoy shooting history. Available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide, with an FFL transfer required for firearm purchases. See our site for current availability and to start the process.
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