Description
The Uberti 1873 Competition Ready Rifle .357 Magnum/38 Spec, 20″ Octagon Barrel 10 Round is a purpose-built, out-of-the-box lever-action rifle designed for fast, reliable performance in cowboy action shooting and practical rifle sports. It combines classic 1873 aesthetics with modern competition-focused tuning for immediate use on the range.
Key Features
- Competition-Tuned Action: Smooth, short-throw lever for rapid follow-up shots.
- Versatile Caliber: Chambers both .357 Magnum and .38 Special for cost-effective practice and competition.
- Octagon Barrel: 20-inch heavy barrel provides stability and a classic profile.
- 10-Round Capacity: Standard tube magazine for stage-ready round counts.
- Ready-to-Run: Pre-tuned for competition; fits out of the box with no gunsmithing required.
Specifications & Details
| Caliber | .357 Magnum / .38 Special |
| Barrel | 20″ Octagon |
| Capacity | 10 Rounds |
| Overall Length | Approx. 39″ |
| Weight | Approx. 7.5 lbs |
| Action | Lever |
This rifle isn’t just a replica; it’s a tool built for a specific task. When the timer beeps and you need to engage a series of steel targets, the slicked-up action and short lever throw let you focus on sight picture and trigger press, not fighting the mechanism. The 20-inch octagon barrel adds forward weight to dampen muzzle rise, making it easier to get back on target quickly. At a price point of $1304.72, it represents a significant but focused investment for the serious shooter. The dual-caliber capability is a major practical advantage—you can run low-recoil, affordable .38 Special for practice and local matches, then switch to full-power .357 Magnum for major competitions or if you want to use it for field use. The rifle’s overall length of approximately 39 inches makes it maneuverable on crowded firing lines or in wooded terrain.
Who This Rifle Is For
This rifle is built for the competitor first. It’s for the cowboy action shooter who needs a reliable, fast rifle that meets SASS guidelines without needing immediate aftermarket work. It’s also a solid choice for the lever-action enthusiast who wants a historically-inspired firearm that’s already optimized for performance right from the start. That said, its versatility makes it a viable option for recreational plinking, hunting medium game at reasonable ranges, or as a durable, high-capacity ranch rifle. The 10-round tube magazine offers a practical advantage over many traditional hunting lever guns. It’s available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide, requiring an FFL transfer for firearm purchases.
Pros & Cons
Pros: The primary advantage is its competition-ready tuning straight from the factory. The action is noticeably smoother than a standard replica. The .357/.38 Special chambering offers tremendous flexibility in ammunition choice and cost. The octagon barrel provides a distinctive look and functional stability. It’s compatible with a wide range of aftermarket sights and accessories designed for the 1873 platform, including those from brands like Tang Sight Co.
Cons: The octagon barrel and tuned internals come at a premium over basic models. Weighing around 7.5 lbs, it’s not the lightest lever gun for all-day carry in the field. Like all 1873-style actions, it’s not designed for high-pressure modern cartridges beyond its intended calibers. The classic design lacks modern amenities like a drilled and tapped receiver for optic mounts—this is a pure iron-sights firearm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is this rifle legal for SASS (Single Action Shooting Society) competition?
A: Yes, the Uberti 1873 Competition Ready Rifle is designed to meet SASS requirements for main match rifle use in its stock configuration, assuming caliber and other standard rules are followed.
Q: Can I use .38 Special +P ammunition in this rifle?
A: While it will chamber, it’s not recommended. The rifle is optimized for standard-pressure .38 Special and .357 Magnum loads. +P ammunition generates higher pressure and can accelerate wear on the classic toggle-link action. Stick to standard loads for longevity and reliable function.
Q: How does the “competition ready” tuning differ from a standard Uberti 1873?
A: The action undergoes additional polishing and smoothing of internal parts, and the lever throw is often shortened. Springs may be lightened for a smoother, easier cycle. The goal is to reduce friction and effort, allowing for faster shooting with less shooter fatigue—exactly what you need when the clock is running.
If you’re ready for a lever gun that prioritizes performance over pure nostalgia, this Uberti deserves a close look. Check availability and initiate the transfer process through our site.
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