Lot 16 WINCHESTER MODEL 1873
This authentic Winchester Model 1873 rifle was manufactured in 1885 during the height of its legendary
production era. Often called “The Gun That Won the West,” the Model 1873 is one of the most iconic firearms
in American history. Produced from 1873 to 1923, this model became a trusted companion of frontiersmen,
ranchers, lawmen, and settlers across the expanding American West.
This rifle is chambered in .32-20 Winchester (also known as .32 WCF) - one of the three classic cartridges for
the 1873. Introduced in 1882, the .32-20 quickly gained popularity for its manageable recoil, accuracy, and
versatility. One of its greatest advantages was ammunition compatibility: many revolvers of the period were
chambered for the same cartridge, allowing a single type of ammunition to serve both rifle and sidearm - an
important convenience in the field.
The Model 1873 is built on Winchester’s robust steel frame and features the company’s renowned lever-action
design, known for its smooth cycling and reliability. By 1885, Winchester had refined production to an
exceptional standard, and rifles from this period are highly regarded by collectors for their craftsmanship and
historical significance.
This particular rifle remains in admirable condition for a piece built in 1885. It features a 24-inch octagon
barrel, consistent with standard sporting configurations of the period, retaining an aged patina with some
light pitting on the metal surfaces - typical for a rifle of its era and use. The wooden stock and forearm display
the rich character of aged walnut, showing expected handling marks but no structural cracks or repairs,
offering an authentic frontier-worn appearance without compromising integrity. The action cycles smoothly,
true to Winchester’s renowned lever-action design, and the sights remain intact. Overall, the rifle presents as a
well-maintained example of a 1873, retaining both its mechanical function and historical charm.
A rifle from this year places it squarely in the era of cattle drives, railroad expansion, and the final years of the
Old West, making it not only a firearm but a genuine artifact of American frontier history. A remarkable
addition to any historical or firearms collection.
production era. Often called “The Gun That Won the West,” the Model 1873 is one of the most iconic firearms
in American history. Produced from 1873 to 1923, this model became a trusted companion of frontiersmen,
ranchers, lawmen, and settlers across the expanding American West.
This rifle is chambered in .32-20 Winchester (also known as .32 WCF) - one of the three classic cartridges for
the 1873. Introduced in 1882, the .32-20 quickly gained popularity for its manageable recoil, accuracy, and
versatility. One of its greatest advantages was ammunition compatibility: many revolvers of the period were
chambered for the same cartridge, allowing a single type of ammunition to serve both rifle and sidearm - an
important convenience in the field.
The Model 1873 is built on Winchester’s robust steel frame and features the company’s renowned lever-action
design, known for its smooth cycling and reliability. By 1885, Winchester had refined production to an
exceptional standard, and rifles from this period are highly regarded by collectors for their craftsmanship and
historical significance.
This particular rifle remains in admirable condition for a piece built in 1885. It features a 24-inch octagon
barrel, consistent with standard sporting configurations of the period, retaining an aged patina with some
light pitting on the metal surfaces - typical for a rifle of its era and use. The wooden stock and forearm display
the rich character of aged walnut, showing expected handling marks but no structural cracks or repairs,
offering an authentic frontier-worn appearance without compromising integrity. The action cycles smoothly,
true to Winchester’s renowned lever-action design, and the sights remain intact. Overall, the rifle presents as a
well-maintained example of a 1873, retaining both its mechanical function and historical charm.
A rifle from this year places it squarely in the era of cattle drives, railroad expansion, and the final years of the
Old West, making it not only a firearm but a genuine artifact of American frontier history. A remarkable
addition to any historical or firearms collection.
Important Notice
All purchases will carry a 10% buyer’s premium. This includes all taxes, fees, and shipping. Firearm shipping and processing fees are the responsibility of the buyer. This fee helps TWRF offset operational expenses such as shipping, handling, and administrative costs — ensuring that the maximum amount of funds raised can be directed toward our conservation and wildlife programs. Please note: a $7.41 registration fee applies for first-time online hunting auction participants.
open_in_full