Description
Picture this: you’re at the range, and the distinctive clack-clack of a lever-action cycle turns heads. It’s not just any rifle—it’s a piece of American history you can shoulder. For the budget-conscious shooter who wants iconic performance without museum-piece prices, the modern Winchester 1873 offers a tangible link to the past with today’s manufacturing precision. Here’s the thing—it bridges the gap between a collector’s dream and a shooter’s reality.
The Winchester 1873 Short Rifle 45 LC 24″ Octagon Barre, Walnut Pistol Grip Stock is a modern reproduction of the legendary “Gun that Won the West.” It’s a lever-action rifle chambered in .45 Long Colt, featuring a 24-inch octagon barrel, a case-hardened frame, and a classic walnut pistol grip stock. This rifle is built for reliable shooting and historical appreciation, offering a direct, hands-on connection to 19th-century firearm design with contemporary fit and finish. It ships to Missouri and compliant US states.
Let’s talk value. At $1364.68, this sits in a sweet spot. You’re well below the cost of an original antique in shootable condition, yet you’re getting a brand-new firearm with a warranty. Compared to other modern lever-actions, you pay a premium for the authentic 1873 toggle-link action and period-correct aesthetics—but that’s the whole point. You’re buying the specific experience, not just any lever gun.
The heart of this rifle is its 24-inch octagon barrel. It provides a long sight radius for accuracy with iron sights and adds significant forward weight, which helps manage the recoil of the .45 LC cartridge—making it a soft shooter. The barrel’s profile is a major part of the classic look and feel, something a modern round barrel just can’t replicate. The walnut stock is another key feature. The pistol grip configuration offers a more ergonomic and secure hold compared to a straight-grip stock, which many shooters prefer for control. It’s typically drop-in ready for a tang-mounted peep sight from brands like Marble’s or Lyman, a popular and period-appropriate upgrade for serious target work.
The action is the star. The 1873’s toggle-link mechanism is smooth, distinct, and historically significant. It’s a robust design that, while not as inherently strong as a later Winchester 1892 action, is perfectly suited to its intended cartridges like the .45 Long Colt. This rifle feeds from a 13-round tubular magazine under the barrel, loaded through a gate on the receiver’s right side. The case-hardened finish on the frame and lever resists wear and adds tremendous visual character, developing a unique patina over time.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Caliber | .45 Long Colt (.45 LC) |
| Barrel | 24″ Octagon |
| Overall Length | Approx. 43.5″ |
| Weight | Approx. 8.5 lbs |
| Action | Lever-Action, Toggle-Link |
| Magazine Capacity | 13 Rounds (Tubular) |
| Stock | American Walnut, Pistol Grip |
Pros: Iconic historical design and aesthetics. Smooth, satisfying lever action. The .45 LC is a manageable, low-pressure round ideal for lever guns. High-quality walnut and metal finish offer great out-of-the-box appeal. Excellent platform for Cowboy Action Shooting or historical reenactment.
Cons: Higher price point than utilitarian modern lever-actions. The action is designed for lower-pressure cartridges, so don’t expect to run hot modern loads. The octagon barrel and steel construction make it heavier than some alternatives. Sights are basic, often prompting an upgrade.
So who is this rifle for? It’s for the shooter who values history as much as function. The Cowboy Action competitor needing a main-match rifle that fits category rules. The hunter who wants a classic feel for woods walking and taking deer at moderate ranges. The enthusiast who simply appreciates mechanical artistry and wants a centerpiece firearm that’s actually meant to be shot, not just displayed. If your priority is pure, budget-minded utility, a Rossi or Henry might make more sense. But if you want the 1873 experience, this is the most accessible path.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I shoot modern .45 Colt ammunition in this?
A: Yes, standard-pressure factory .45 Long Colt ammunition is perfectly safe and recommended. Always avoid +P or high-pressure loads not specifically rated for toggle-link actions like the 1873.
Q: Is this good for deer hunting in Missouri?
A: With the right load and within reasonable ranges (under 100 yards), the .45 LC is a capable deer cartridge. The rifle’s weight and length can be a factor in dense brush, but its accuracy and power are sufficient for the task.
Q: What maintenance does the 1873 action require?
A: It’s a straightforward design. Regular cleaning of the barrel and action, along with light lubrication on moving parts, is all that’s typically needed. Disassembly for deep cleaning is more involved than a modern rifle but well-documented in manuals and online guides.
Ready to own a piece of shooting history? The Winchester 1873 Short Rifle is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide. An FFL transfer is required for firearm purchases.
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