Winchester Guns 534202137 Model 1873 Short Rifle 357 Mag 10+1 20" Satin Oiled Walnut Fixed Straight Grip Stock Color Case Hardened Right Hand

Winchester Repeating Arms Model 1873 Short Rifle: A Timeless Classic Reborn for Modern Enthusiasts (SKU 534202137)

For those who cherish the legacy of the Old West, appreciate superior craftsmanship, or seek a highly reliable and aesthetically pleasing lever-action rifle for sport and collection, the Winchester Repeating Arms Model 1873 Short Rifle stands as an unparalleled choice. This iconic firearm, bearing the SKU 534202137 and UPC 048702003592, is more than just a rifle; it's a piece of living history meticulously re-engineered for contemporary performance, embodying the spirit of the "Gun That Won the West" while meeting the demands of today's discerning shooters.

Why Choose the Winchester Model 1873 Short Rifle? Unpacking Its Enduring Appeal

The Model 1873 has captivated imaginations for generations. Its reintroduction by Winchester Repeating Arms ensures that the legend continues with a quality that surpasses many expectations. This particular Short Rifle variant combines a compact profile with significant firepower, making it incredibly versatile. Whether you're a dedicated Cowboy Action Shooter seeking an authentic and competitive edge, a historical firearm collector looking for a meticulously crafted reproduction, or a recreational shooter desiring a rifle with unmatched character and smooth operation, this Model 1873 is designed to exceed your expectations.

What truly sets this Model 1873 apart? It’s a harmonious blend of historical fidelity and modern manufacturing excellence. Every detail, from the selection of Grade III/IV walnut for the stock to the meticulous brushed polish blued steel barrel and the vibrant color case hardened receiver, speaks to Winchester's commitment to quality. This isn't just a firearm; it's an heirloom.

Unrivaled Versatility: The Power of .38 Special and .357 Magnum

One of the most compelling features of this Winchester Model 1873 Short Rifle is its ability to chamber and fire both .38 Special and .357 Magnum ammunition. This dual-caliber capability offers immense practical advantages and is a significant reason why this rifle is so highly regarded, especially among Cowboy Action Shooters.

• Cost-Effectiveness and Training: The .38 Special cartridge is often more affordable and produces less recoil, making it ideal for extended plinking sessions, new shooters, or training purposes without fatigue.
• Increased Power and Range: When more power is needed for target shooting at longer ranges, or for specific competition stages, the .357 Magnum provides a significant ballistic upgrade. This flexibility means you don't need two separate rifles for different power levels or shooting disciplines.
• Ammunition Commonality: For Cowboy Action Shooters, the ability to use the same ammunition in their lever-action rifle as their revolvers simplifies logistics and streamlines their competition setup, a crucial advantage on the firing line.

This inherent versatility means your investment in the Model 1873 Short Rifle opens up a wide array of shooting experiences, from relaxed plinking to competitive events.

Key Design Elements and Their Benefits

The Winchester Model 1873 Short Rifle (UPC 048702003592) is packed with features that enhance its performance, durability, and aesthetic appeal.

Precision and Durability: The 20" Brushed Polish Blued Steel Barrel

The heart of any rifle's accuracy lies in its barrel. This Model 1873 features a 20-inch barrel crafted from high-quality steel, finished with a brushed polish bluing.

• Optimal Barrel Length: The 20-inch length strikes an excellent balance. It's long enough to maximize the ballistic potential of both .38 Special and .357 Magnum cartridges, contributing to superior accuracy, while remaining compact enough for quick handling and maneuverability, particularly in competition scenarios or dense environments.
• Brushed Polish Bluing: This classic finish is not just aesthetically pleasing, providing a deep, lustrous black sheen; it also offers robust protection against corrosion and wear. The "brushed polish" aspect indicates a fine attention to detail in the finishing process, contributing to the rifle's overall premium feel and appearance.
• Ideal Twist Rate: With a 1:18.75" twist rate, the barrel is optimally designed to stabilize a wide range of bullet weights typically found in .38 Special and .357 Magnum ammunition, further enhancing the rifle's inherent accuracy.

The Art of the Receiver: Color Case Hardening and Modern Utility

The steel receiver of the Model 1873 is truly a work of art, featuring a stunning color case hardened finish. This traditional finishing process creates a vibrant, mottled pattern of blues, purples, browns, and grays that is unique to each firearm, making every rifle a one-of-a-kind masterpiece.

• Aesthetic Distinction: Color case hardening is a hallmark of classic firearms, imbuing the rifle with an immediate sense of history and craftsmanship. It’s an eye-catching finish that stands out in any collection or on the range.
• Enhanced Durability: Beyond its beauty, the case hardening process creates an incredibly hard surface on the steel, significantly increasing its resistance to wear and tear, ensuring the rifle's longevity and preserving its operational integrity for decades to come.
• Drilled & Tapped for Modern Optics: In a thoughtful nod to modern shooters, the receiver comes factory-drilled and tapped. This crucial feature allows for the easy installation of a scope rail or other optical sighting systems, should a shooter desire enhanced precision beyond the traditional iron sights. This adaptability ensures the rifle can meet diverse shooting needs, from competitive events requiring optical precision to recreational target shooting.

The Beauty and Feel of Grade III/IV Walnut Stock

The stock of the Model 1873 Short Rifle is crafted from Grade III/IV walnut, known for its rich grain patterns and durability. Finished with a satin oil, it offers a velvet-smooth feel that enhances the overall shooting experience.

• Premium Wood Selection: Grade III/IV walnut is a high-quality wood, showcasing beautiful figuring and strength. Its natural warmth and tactile appeal contribute significantly to the rifle's classic aesthetic.
• Ergonomic Straight Grip: The straight grip design is historically accurate for the Model 1873 and provides a comfortable and secure hold, facilitating rapid cycling of the lever action and consistent shot placement.
• Satin Oil Finish: This type of finish allows the natural beauty of the wood grain to shine through while offering protection. It's also easy to maintain and repair, unlike some thicker, more artificial finishes.

Smooth Loading and Enhanced Sight Options

Attention to detail extends to every operational aspect of this rifle:

• Steel Loading Gate: The steel loading gate is designed for exceptionally smooth loading of cartridges into the magazine tube. This feature is particularly appreciated during high-speed competitive shooting, where every second counts, ensuring reliable and snag-free reloads.
• Traditional Sighting System: The rifle is equipped with a classic bead front sight paired with a semi-buckhorn rear sight. This combination provides a clear sight picture that is both historically accurate and highly functional for quick target acquisition and precise shooting at common lever-action distances.
• Rear Tang Drilled & Tapped: For shooters seeking even greater precision or a different sighting experience, the rear tang is factory drilled and tapped. This allows for the easy installation of an optional tang-mounted rear sight, which can provide a longer sight radius and finer adjustments for more precise aim, a common upgrade for competitive shooters and enthusiasts.

The Legacy of the Model 1873: "The Gun That Won the West"

The Winchester Model 1873 holds an indelible place in American history. Often referred to as "The Gun That Won the West," it was a revolutionary firearm for its time. Its reliable lever-action mechanism, coupled with the ability to fire common handgun cartridges, made it immensely popular among pioneers, settlers, lawmen, and cowboys across the expanding American frontier.

• Innovation: Designed by Winchester's engineers, with critical improvements and patents by John Moses Browning on later models, the 1873 perfected the concept of a fast-firing, repeating rifle.
• Impact on History: It was instrumental in shaping the American West, enabling rapid self-defense, effective hunting, and efficient dispatch of duties. Its presence became synonymous with the era.
• Cultural Icon: Beyond its practical utility, the Model 1873 transitioned into a cultural icon, featured prominently in countless Western films, literature, and art, solidifying its legendary status in the collective imagination.

Today's Winchester Model 1873 Short Rifle (SKU 534202137) is a faithful and high-quality homage to this storied past, allowing modern enthusiasts to own and experience a piece of that history firsthand.

Who is the Winchester Model 1873 Short Rifle For?

This rifle is designed for a specific set of discerning individuals who value performance, heritage, and quality:

• Cowboy Action Shooters: This is arguably the primary audience. The Model 1873's authenticity, smooth action, and dual-caliber capability (especially with .38 Special matching revolvers) make it a top choice for SASS (Single Action Shooting Society) and other cowboy action events. Its reliability and ease of use in rapid-fire scenarios are paramount.
• Historical Firearm Collectors: For those who appreciate firearms with significant historical lineage, this meticulously reproduced Model 1873 offers exceptional quality and fidelity to the original design, making it a valuable addition to any collection.
• Recreational Shooters & Plinkers: If you enjoy shooting for leisure and appreciate a rifle with character and a tangible connection to history, the Model 1873 offers a unique and satisfying shooting experience. The relatively mild recoil of the .38 Special and the rifle's inherent balance make it a joy to shoot.
• Enthusiasts of Classic Firearms: Anyone with an interest in the mechanics and aesthetics of classic American firearms will find the Model 1873 Short Rifle to be a fascinating and rewarding piece of engineering.
• Hunters (Small Game/Varmint - where legal and appropriate for caliber): While primarily a target and competition rifle, the .357 Magnum offers sufficient power for smaller game or varmints at appropriate ranges, though its primary use cases lean more towards sport shooting.

Maintenance and Care for Your Model 1873

To ensure the longevity and pristine condition of your Winchester Model 1873 Short Rifle (UPC 048702003592), proper care and maintenance are essential.

• Regular Cleaning: After each use, especially when firing lead ammunition, clean the barrel and action thoroughly to prevent lead buildup and maintain accuracy. Use appropriate cleaning solvents and brushes.
• Wood Stock Care: The walnut stock, with its satin oil finish, benefits from occasional conditioning with a high-quality gun stock oil or wax to keep the wood moisturized and protected.
• Metal Finishes: The brushed bluing and color case hardening should be wiped down with an oiled cloth after handling to prevent rust and preserve their beauty. Avoid harsh abrasives or chemicals on the color case hardened receiver to protect its unique finish.
• Lubrication: Lightly lubricate moving parts within the action to ensure smooth operation, but avoid over-lubricating, which can attract dirt and debris.

Following these simple steps will ensure your Model 1873 remains a reliable and beautiful firearm for generations.

Answering Common Questions About the Winchester Model 1873 Short Rifle

Prospective owners and enthusiasts often have specific questions about this legendary rifle. Here are some of the most frequently asked:

• Is the Winchester Model 1873 a good choice for Cowboy Action Shooting?
  Absolutely. The Model 1873 is a premier choice for Cowboy Action Shooting due to its historical accuracy, smooth lever action, and its ability to chamber both .38 Special and .357 Magnum, aligning perfectly with the ammunition used in accompanying revolvers. Its natural balance and quick handling make it very competitive.
• Can I really shoot both .38 Special and .357 Magnum ammunition in this rifle?
  Yes, this rifle is designed to safely and effectively chamber and fire both .38 Special and .357 Magnum cartridges. This dual capability provides significant versatility for different shooting scenarios and ammunition availability.
• What are the benefits of a color case hardened receiver?
  The color case hardened receiver offers both aesthetic and practical benefits. Aesthetically, it provides a unique, visually stunning mottled finish that makes each rifle distinct. Practically, the case hardening process creates an extremely hard surface, enhancing the steel's durability and resistance to wear and corrosion.
• Why is the receiver drilled and tapped?
  The receiver is factory drilled and tapped to allow for the easy installation of a scope mount or other optical sighting systems. This provides shooters with the option to enhance precision beyond traditional iron sights, catering to those who might prefer a magnified optic for target shooting or specific competition requirements.
• How does the 20" barrel length affect performance?
  The 20-inch barrel length is an optimal balance for this rifle. It provides sufficient length for the full ballistic potential of the .357 Magnum cartridge, contributing to excellent velocity and accuracy, while keeping the rifle maneuverable and well-balanced. It's also historically consistent with many short rifle configurations.
• What type of sights does the Model 1873 Short Rifle use?
  It comes equipped with classic iron sights: a bead front sight and a semi-buckhorn rear sight. This traditional setup is highly effective for fast target acquisition and provides a clear sight picture for typical lever-action rifle ranges. The rear tang is also drilled and tapped for an optional tang-mounted rear sight, offering another sight radius option.
• What is the capacity of this Model 1873?
  The tubular magazine of this Winchester Model 1873 Short Rifle has a capacity of 10 rounds, plus one in the chamber, for a total of 10+1 rounds. This generous capacity is ideal for competition and extended shooting sessions.

In conclusion, the Winchester Repeating Arms Model 1873 Short Rifle (SKU 534202137, UPC 048702003592) is a masterful blend of historical authenticity and modern manufacturing precision. It offers exceptional versatility, stunning aesthetics, and reliable performance, making it a highly desirable firearm for anyone seeking to connect with the legacy of the Old West through a truly premium rifle. This exceptional Winchester Model 1873 Short Rifle is a prime example of the quality firearms available at reputable dealers like DEGuns.

Winchester Model 1873 Short Rifle Specifications