Historical Winchester 1873 Western Carbine, .44-40 Caliber, 1882, Beautiful 20″ Barrel

Winchester Carbine - Model 1873

Manufactured: 1882 – Caliber: .44-40 – Special feature: modified sights

History

Nicknamed “The Gun that Won the West,” the Winchester Model 1873 succeeded the Model 1866 and introduced a major innovation: the widespread adoption of the centerfire cartridge. Produced from 1873 to 1923 in over 700,000 units, it became the iconic weapon of the conquest of the West. Popular with settlers, cowboys, hunters, as well as outlaws and sheriffs, it features in countless stories and films about the American West. Its success is closely linked to the .44 Winchester Center Fire (44-40) caliber, which quickly became the most widespread of the era. Its popularity was such that Colt decided to produce its revolvers in a Frontier version chambered in the same caliber, allowing users to use only one cartridge for both their rifle and revolver.

Manufactured in various versions (rifle, musket, carbine) and in a wide range of finishes, the Winchester 1873 is today one of the most sought-after firearms for collectors, and the carbine model, often associated with the cowboy, retains a particular appeal due to its compact size and handling.

Our Model

This Winchester 1873 rifle, manufactured in 1882 during the height of the American West, is presented in excellent and consistent condition.

The metal parts have a patinated blue finish, giving them an authentic and characterful appearance. The original markings are clear and legible. The serial number 116XXX corresponds to a production date of 1882. The front sight has been replaced. The wood, in a beautiful, uniform color, is in good overall condition; note a small chip at the end of the left handguard and an old repair to the handguard.

Mechanically, the rifle is in excellent working order: crisp firing pin strike, smooth cocking, and a light trigger pull. The 22-inch round barrel, chambered in .44-40, has a light gray bore with well-defined rifling, ensuring accuracy and functionality.

An authentic witness to the conquest of the West, this Winchester 1873 Carbine combines history, rarity and collector appeal.