SOLD - Rare Winchester M1873 Musket & Bayonet - Third Model

Description

11/13/18 - Made in 1891, this is a scarce Winchester M1873 lever-action musket - third model. This rifle is in excellent condition considering its age, and the wood has aged incredibly well with only very minor nicks and scratches. There is pitting along the side of the barrel where it meets the wooden hand guard, but no other noteworthy flaws on the metal parts. There are little signs of actual finish loss or rub wear, though there is deep, uniform patina on all metal parts. Overall, the metal parts are browned from aging but in great condition. The lever action is smooth and well-functioning. The bore is surprisingly strong, with strong rifling and a decent shine. There is some frost and minor freckling throughout, but it looks like it is still fireable. The rifle includes an original bayonet that is in excellent condition and smoothly locks into place on the barrel. The bayonet is sheathed in an excellent scabbard that is marked “McKENNEY’S PAT. JAN 12 1886” with an “N.G.P.” buckle. The rifle also includes an original sling which, again, is in great condition considering the age of the rifle. The rifle’s iron frame employs Winchester superintendent Nathan King’s 1866 patent for storing cartridges in the tube and also for loading the tube through a hinged gate on the right side of the frame. Lever-action frame has a sliding, rail mounted dust-cover with serrated thumb edges, no saddle ring, and is fitted to a two-piece, oil-stained black walnut stock and forend. Forend wears the iron nose cap.