The Model 1873 is one of the most famous of all American firearms and has been popularly known as "the Gun that Won the West" due to its popularity with pioneers. It was often paired with a Colt Single Action Army or other revolver chambered for the popular .44-40 W.C.F. cartridges. This made carrying ammunition for both your rifle and your revolver simple and allowed an individual to be ready to defend themselves against man or beast in a variety of tough situations. This Model 1873 is in high condition and will look great in the finest of collections. The accompanying factory letter (copy) confirms the octagon barrel .44 caliber and plain trigger as well as stating the rifle was received in the warehouse on October 8, 1889 and shipped on October 18. The rifle is fitted with Winchester No. 21 silver insert front and No. 22H rear sights. The rifle has a third model receiver with integral dust cover rail and dust cover with grip serrations at the rear. The top barrel flat has the two-line Winchester legend ahead of the rear sight and "44 WCF" at the breech. The cartridge elevator is marked "44 CAL." The upper tang is marked "MODEL 1873." The lower tang has the serial number. The buttstock is fitted with a trapdoor buttplate, and the butt compartment contains a four piece cleaning rod. The forearm and straight grip stock are plain walnut. Provenance: The Wayne Connor Collection

Exceptionally fine, retaining 85% plus bright original high polish blue finish with some thinning to brown on the balance and some scattered handling marks. The dust cover is mostly a smooth brown-gray patina. 85% plus original nitre blue remains on the loading gate. The hammer retains 85% original case colors with some light pitting visible on the right side. The lever and buttplate retain 60% original case colors. The wood is also excellent with some minor handling marks and most of the original finish remaining. Mechanically excellent. A high condition, very well cared for Winchester Model 1873 Rifle in always desirable .44 WCF. High condition Model 1873s are increasingly becoming difficult to find.