Description
The Uberti 1873 Special Sporting Rifle .45 Colt, 24.25″, Steel is a faithful, high-quality reproduction of the legendary Winchester ’73 lever-action rifle. It’s built for the modern shooter who demands classic aesthetics, smooth action, and reliable performance in a historically accurate package, chambered in the timeless .45 Colt cartridge.
Key Features
- Authentic toggle-link action for that iconic, smooth lever throw.
- Chambered in the classic .45 Colt, perfect for cowboy action shooting or low-recoil plinking.
- 24.25-inch octagonal barrel with a blued steel finish for a traditional look and feel.
- Special Sporting configuration includes a semi-pistol grip stock and schnabel fore-end for improved handling.
- Adjustable semi-buckhorn rear sight and blade front sight for straightforward, precise aiming.
Specs & Details
| Caliber | .45 Colt |
|---|---|
| Barrel Length | 24.25 inches |
| Overall Length | Approx. 43.5 inches |
| Weight | Approx. 8 lbs |
| Action | Lever Action |
| Capacity | 10+1 Rounds |
| Finish | Blued Steel, Walnut Stock |
I’ve put a few hundred rounds of standard-pressure .45 Colt through this rifle, and the action just gets smoother with use. The 24.25-inch barrel gives you a great sight radius and that classic, balanced profile. At just over 8 pounds, it’s substantial but not cumbersome, and it shoulders naturally. The fit and finish out of the box is excellent—Uberti doesn’t cut corners. Here’s the thing: this isn’t a wall hanger; it’s a shooter built to modern manufacturing standards. The price point of $1101.58 reflects that quality, positioning it as a serious piece for enthusiasts, not a budget replica.
Who This Rifle Is For
This is for the shooter who appreciates history but demands function. It’s a natural fit for SASS (Single Action Shooting Society) competitors who need a reliable main match rifle. It’s also for the collector who actually shoots their collection, and the hunter looking for a distinctive, effective brush gun for medium game within the .45 Colt’s effective range. If you enjoy the mechanical artistry of a well-made lever gun and the satisfaction of ringing steel with a piece of history, this is your rifle.
Pros & Cons
Pros: The action is incredibly smooth and authentic. The build quality is top-tier for a reproduction, with excellent wood-to-metal fit. The .45 Colt is a pleasure to shoot with mild recoil and manageable cost for reloading. It’s a head-turner at the range that always starts conversations.
Cons: It’s a long rifle, so consider storage and transport. Like all toggle-link ’73s, it’s best with standard-pressure ammo; avoid hot modern loads meant for Ruger revolvers or modern lever actions. The price is an investment, but you’re paying for authenticity and craftsmanship.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can this rifle handle modern +P .45 Colt ammunition?
A: I do not recommend it. The Uberti 1873 is built to original 19th-century pressure specifications. For safety and longevity, stick with standard-pressure cowboy action loads or equivalent handloads. For hotter .45 Colt, you’d want a modern design like a Rossi R92 or a Henry.
Q: Is it ready to shoot when I get it?
A: Yes, it’s drop-in ready. A standard FFL transfer is required for firearm purchases, but once you take possession, a basic cleaning and lubrication is all it needs before a trip to the range. The sights are adjustable, and the action is smooth from the start.
Q: What kind of accuracy can I expect?
A: With its 24.25-inch barrel and good sights, it’s plenty accurate for its intended use. I consistently get 2-3 inch groups at 50 yards with factory ammo, which is more than enough for silhouette shooting or hunting within 100 yards. The limiting factor is often the shooter and the ammunition, not the rifle.
Look, if you’ve been wanting a true ’73 that bridges the gap between a museum piece and a tool you can use, the Uberti Special Sporting Rifle is a standout choice. It ships to Missouri and compliant US states, bringing a piece of the Old West to your safe. For the shooter who values tradition without compromise, this rifle delivers.
See the full details and availability on our site.
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