1873 Winchester 44WCF

[moodyholler]

Picked up an 1873 Winchester today. Serial number 71,xxx, Wood higher than the metal, Lot of original varnish and silver metal. Action is tight and bore bright. Accoridng to this site, DOM is 1882.http://www.gun-data.com/winchester_73.htm Is this correct info? It has the "KINGS IMPROVEMENT PATENT" on the barrel and has a dust cover. Does this make it a 2nd model? Barrel is heavy round and has been shortened to 20" and mag tube is now a button. My pics did not turn out good and will try at a later date for better ones. Thanks, moodyholler

[Marc]

Second model has the dust cover guide screwed to the receiver. Third model the guide is integral with receiver. My 73 44WCF is my fun gun! Hope you enjoy yours!

[moodyholler]

And so it is!! Thanks, moodyholler

[kimwcook]

Excellent! Make sure you update us on the range report.

[missionary5155]

Good morning
I will agree the 73´s are right fun to haul about and use for whatever needs to be popped.
My first was a 32-20 then got a 38-40. No regrets .
Just keep the loads in mind of the age of the metal and the type action it is and you will be still shooting yours for years to come.
My 38-40 works just fine with 5.5 grains Unique for plinking and 6 grains for popping groundhogs and other 50-100 pound critters up close. Using range scrap with a 185 grain mold makes it a real thumper. A 200 grainer in your 44-40 will do the same.
Just be sure to get a good read on the throat area. All my old Winchester 44-40´s run fat.. .431--432 is the normal diameter. Filll the throat and accuracy is real easy.