Taylors & Company 2043COM 1873 Comanchero 357 Mag 10+1 20" Walnut Color Case Hardened Right Hand

The Enduring Appeal of the Taylors & Company 1873 Comanchero Lever Action Rifle: A Timeless Classic for Modern Shooters

Are you searching for a firearm that perfectly blends historical authenticity with reliable modern performance? Do you want a lever-action rifle renowned for its smooth action, striking aesthetics, and versatility? For enthusiasts of classic firearms, competitive shooters in disciplines like Cowboy Action Shooting, or even those looking for a unique and dependable rifle for target practice or light hunting, the Taylors & Company 1873 Comanchero lever-action rifle chambered in .357 Magnum is an exceptional choice. This rifle isn't just a historical replica; it's a meticulously crafted tool designed to meet the demands of today's discerning shooters, offering a captivating link to the American Old West while delivering superb accuracy and handling.

A Legacy Reimagined: The 1873 Comanchero's Roots

The iconic Winchester Model 1873, often dubbed "The Gun That Won the West," holds an undeniable place in firearm history. Its widespread adoption by cowboys, lawmen, settlers, and frontiersmen made it synonymous with the expansion of the American frontier. Taylors & Company, known for their dedication to authentic reproductions, meticulously recreates this legendary design with their 1873 Comanchero model. This isn't just a superficial copy; it's an homage built with modern manufacturing precision and quality materials, ensuring that the spirit of the original lives on while offering enhanced durability and reliability for contemporary use.

For those who wonder, "What makes the 1873 design so special?", the answer lies in its groundbreaking toggle-link action. This mechanism, while complex to manufacture, provided an incredibly smooth and fast cycling experience, a crucial advantage in the days of rapid-fire engagements. Taylors & Company has painstakingly replicated this action, ensuring that the Comanchero offers the same effortless cycling that made the original so beloved. This smooth operation is a significant draw for competitive shooters who rely on quick, fluid manipulations.

Why Choose a Lever-Action Rifle in Today's World?

In an era dominated by semi-automatic rifles, the enduring popularity of the lever-action often prompts the question: "Why should I consider a lever-action rifle for my collection or shooting needs?" The answer lies in several compelling advantages:

• Timeless Appeal and Aesthetics: There's an undeniable charm and character to a well-crafted lever-action. The Taylors & Company 1873 Comanchero, with its classic lines, rich walnut stock, and distinctive color case hardened receiver, embodies this aesthetic appeal perfectly. It's a rifle that commands attention and tells a story.
• Simple and Reliable Operation: Lever-action rifles are known for their mechanical simplicity and robustness. They are less prone to certain types of malfunctions than more complex semi-automatic designs, making them highly reliable in various conditions.
• Versatility of Caliber: The .357 Magnum chambering, as offered in the Comanchero, is incredibly versatile. It can effectively handle both potent .357 Magnum loads and lighter-recoiling, more affordable .38 Special ammunition. This flexibility is a major benefit for diverse shooting activities.
• Historical Connection: Owning and shooting an 1873 replica is a direct connection to a pivotal era in American history. It allows enthusiasts to experience the technology and feel of firearms that shaped the past.
• Legal Compliance: In many jurisdictions with stricter firearm regulations, lever-action rifles often face fewer restrictions compared to modern sporting rifles, making them a more accessible option for many shooters.
• Fun and Engaging Shooting Experience: There's a unique satisfaction that comes from mastering the smooth, rhythmic action of a lever-action rifle. It offers a different kind of shooting pleasure compared to other firearm types.

Unpacking the Taylors & Company 1873 Comanchero's Premier Features

The Taylors & Company 1873 Comanchero (model 2043COM) stands out with a combination of authentic design elements and thoughtful execution. When considering a premium lever-action rifle, understanding these specific features is crucial.

Authentic Aesthetics and Durable Finishes

One of the most striking aspects of the Comanchero is its color case hardened receiver. This traditional finishing process creates a unique, mottled rainbow effect on the steel, offering both stunning visual appeal and enhanced corrosion resistance. No two color case hardened receivers are exactly alike, making each Comanchero rifle a truly unique piece of functional art. This finish not only contributes to the rifle's historical accuracy but also adds a layer of resilience, ensuring the rifle maintains its beauty and integrity over years of use.

Complementing the receiver is the beautiful walnut stock. Walnut has been the material of choice for fine firearm stocks for centuries due to its strength, stability, and ability to be shaped and finished to a high degree of craftsmanship. The rich grain and warm tones of the walnut enhance the classic appearance of the rifle, providing a comfortable and secure grip for the shooter. The fit and finish of the wood to metal components are precise, a hallmark of quality manufacturing.

Performance-Driven Specifications

• Caliber Versatility: The Comanchero is chambered in .357 Magnum, a highly capable cartridge. What truly sets this caliber apart in a lever-action rifle is its ability to also reliably chamber and fire .38 Special ammunition. This dual-caliber capability offers significant advantages:
  • Cost-Effective Training: .38 Special rounds are generally less expensive and have milder recoil, making them ideal for extended range sessions, practicing shooting fundamentals, and introducing new shooters to the platform.
  • Powerful Performance: When situations call for more power, the .357 Magnum delivers impressive muzzle energy, making it suitable for small to medium game hunting or self-defense applications where legal.
  • Shared Platform: The ability to use both calibers means you only need one rifle for a wide range of shooting scenarios, simplifying ammunition management and reducing the need for multiple firearms.
• Capacity and Barrel Length: With a 10+1 round capacity, the Comanchero provides ample firepower for competitive shooting stages or extended plinking sessions without frequent reloads. The 20-inch barrel is a practical and popular length for lever-action rifles. It strikes an excellent balance, providing sufficient barrel length for optimal ballistic performance from both .357 Magnum and .38 Special cartridges, contributing to increased velocity and accuracy compared to shorter carbine models. This length also makes the rifle maneuverable enough for various shooting positions and environments, while still offering a good sight radius for precise aiming.
• Right Hand Configuration: Designed for right-handed shooters, the ergonomics and handling of the rifle are optimized for comfortable and efficient operation, ensuring a natural and intuitive shooting experience.

Who Will Benefit Most from the Taylors & Company 1873 Comanchero?

The Taylors & Company 1873 Comanchero rifle caters to a diverse audience, each finding unique value in its design and capabilities.

For the Cowboy Action Shooter (SASS Competitor)

This rifle is a dream come true for participants in Cowboy Action Shooting (CAS) sanctioned by organizations like the Single Action Shooting Society (SASS). When competitors ask, "What is the best lever-action rifle for Cowboy Action Shooting?", the 1873 Winchester replica, particularly one as well-made as the Taylors & Company Comanchero, is often at the top of the list. Its historically accurate design, combined with the incredibly smooth toggle-link action, allows for rapid and reliable cycling during timed stages. The ability to use .38 Special ammunition for competition further reduces recoil and cost, enhancing the competitive edge. The robust construction and authentic feel contribute directly to an immersive and successful competitive experience.

For the Historical Firearms Collector and Enthusiast

For collectors, the Comanchero offers an exceptional blend of historical accuracy and modern manufacturing quality. It's more than just a firearm; it's a piece of history that can be safely and reliably shot. Owning a faithful reproduction of "The Gun That Won the West" allows enthusiasts to appreciate the engineering marvel of the original while enjoying the benefits of contemporary metallurgy and production standards. It's a centerpiece for any collection focusing on American frontier history.

For the Hunter (Small to Medium Game)

While not a long-range magnum, the .357 Magnum in a 20-inch rifle barrel delivers sufficient energy and accuracy for ethical hunting of small to medium-sized game within appropriate ranges. For deer, hogs, or varmints at close to moderate distances, the Comanchero offers a lightweight, handy, and effective hunting tool. Its classic appearance also makes it a distinguished companion in the field.

For General Target Shooting and Plinking

Looking for a fun and engaging rifle for the range? The Comanchero excels here. The mild recoil of .38 Special ammunition makes it a joy to shoot for extended periods without fatigue, and the accuracy potential of the .357 Magnum provides a rewarding challenge for precision shooting. It's an ideal rifle for simply enjoying a day at the range, honing shooting skills, or introducing new shooters to the world of firearms in a comfortable and approachable manner.

Elevating Your Shooting Experience with the Comanchero

To truly maximize your enjoyment and performance with the Taylors & Company 1873 Comanchero, consider these practical aspects:

Ammunition Selection

The versatility of the .357 Magnum/.38 Special chambering means you have a wide array of ammunition options. For target practice and high-volume shooting, standard .38 Special FMJ (Full Metal Jacket) or LRN (Lead Round Nose) loads are economical and perform well. For hunting or self-defense (where applicable), reliable .357 Magnum jacketed hollow points (JHP) or soft points (JSP) are recommended. Always ensure the ammunition you choose is appropriate for your specific use case and that it cycles reliably in your rifle. Pay attention to cartridge overall length (OAL) for optimal feeding in tube magazines.

Maintenance and Care

Like any fine firearm, the Taylors & Company 1873 Comanchero benefits from regular cleaning and maintenance. A clean barrel ensures optimal accuracy, and proper lubrication of the action will maintain its renowned smoothness. Pay particular attention to the unique toggle-link mechanism, ensuring it remains free of debris and adequately oiled. The color case hardened finish, while durable, can benefit from a light coat of gun oil after handling to prevent rust and preserve its beauty, especially in humid environments. A well-maintained rifle will serve you reliably for generations.

Safety First

Always adhere to fundamental firearm safety rules: treat every gun as if it's loaded, never point the muzzle at anything you're not willing to destroy, keep your finger off the trigger until ready to shoot, and be sure of your target and what's beyond it. Store your Taylors & Company 1873 Comanchero securely and responsibly when not in use.

Where to Find Your Taylors & Company 1873 Comanchero

When you're ready to acquire this exceptional piece of firearms craftsmanship, you'll find the Taylors & Company 1873 Comanchero 357 Mag 10+1 20" Walnut Color Case Hardened Right Hand rifle readily available from trusted retailers like DEGuns. DEGuns offers a comprehensive selection of firearms, ensuring you can find this specific model and other quality products from Taylors & Company. Their commitment to customer service and inventory means you can confidently purchase your next rifle.

The Taylors & Company 1873 Comanchero is more than just a rifle; it's an experience. It’s a bridge between the legends of the past and the precision of the present, offering a unique blend of historical appeal, reliable performance, and versatile utility. Whether your passion lies in competitive shooting, collecting, hunting, or simply enjoying the timeless art of shooting, this rifle is poised to exceed your expectations and become a cherished part of your collection for years to come.

Taylors & Company 1873 Comanchero Specifications