SOLD - Rare, Early Winchester Model 1873 - First Model, Half-Octagon Bbl

Description

12/8/23 - This is a very rare and highly desirable Winchester Model 1873 from 1875. A Cody letter confirming the configuration is included in the photos for this listing. It's a first model example with case-hardened receiver, short mag, checkered stock and 1/2 octagon barrel. Barrel is 24in. One of the first ~9,000 produced, the rifle remains in good condition with beautiful wood furniture. First model is distinguishable by the grooved guides for the dust cover, though the cover is absent on this rifle. The blued finish shows notable patina and some areas of thinning but no major pitting or corrosion. The case-hardening on the receiver is mostly faded away at this point but faintly visible in a couple of small areas. Mounted on a smooth straight grip stock fitted with a crescent buttplate featuring a compartment, the stock is in exceptional condition with no notable defects. The rifle correctly lacks caliber markings, but is chambered for .44 WCF. Fantastic bore with strong rifling. Cody letter states the rifle shipped in September of 1875.