Historic Winchester Model 1873 Carbine, .44-40 Caliber, Made in 1888, Fine 20″ Barrel

Winchester Model 1873 Carbine – .44-40 Caliber

Manufactured: 1888 – Caliber: .44-40 WCF – Configuration: Carbine – Barrel: 22’’

An iconic firearm of the American West, this Winchester Model 1873 Carbine was manufactured in 1888 and has survived in well-preserved condition. It retains legible original markings, a naturally aged gunmetal finish and excellent mechanical function.

History

Nicknamed “The Gun That Won the West,” the Winchester Model 1873 followed the Model 1866 and marked an important development in American firearms through its use of the centerfire metallic cartridge. Produced from 1873 to 1923, with more than 700,000 examples manufactured, it became one of the defining firearms of the American frontier. Popular among settlers, cowboys, hunters, lawmen and outlaws alike, the Model 1873 became firmly associated with the history and mythology of the American West. Its success was closely linked to the .44 Winchester Center Fire cartridge, also known as the .44-40, which became widely used during this period. The popularity of this cartridge also led Colt to offer its Single Action Army revolver in the Frontier .44-40 configuration, allowing users to carry a rifle or carbine and a revolver chambered for the same cartridge.

The Winchester Model 1873 was manufactured in several configurations, including rifle, musket and carbine, with different barrel lengths and finishes. The more compact carbine version retains particular appeal among collectors of antique American firearms.

Our Model

This Winchester Model 1873 Carbine, manufactured in 1888, dates from the era of the American frontier. Its metal surfaces display a naturally aged gunmetal patina, while the original markings remain clear and legible. The 116XXX serial number corresponds to production in 1888. The wooden furniture has an even tone and remains in good overall condition. A small impact mark is visible on the right side of the fore-end, consistent with the history of this antique firearm.

Mechanically, the carbine is in excellent working order, with positive percussion, smooth cocking and a smooth trigger pull. The 22-inch round barrel, chambered in .44-40, has a light grey bore with well-defined rifling.

This Winchester 1873 Carbine is an authentic representative of the American West and a fine example of the Winchester carbines produced in the late nineteenth century.

The firearm is accompanied by a certificate issued by the Saint-Étienne National Proof House classifying it as a Category D(e) historical firearm.