Winchester Model 1873 Black Gold Short Rifle .45 Colt — 2015 Limited Edition, 20 Inch, Engraved, 10+1
This 2015 Limited Edition Winchester Model 1873 Black Gold Short Rifle is a factory special run distinguished by its silver-tone receiver, blued 20-inch barrel, and ornate factory engraving with gold accents. It features oil-derrick panel scenes and a gold "Black Gold" script on the dust cover, marking it as part of the Black Gold series. Made by Miroku for Winchester Repeating Arms, it combines classic Model 1873 design with high-end finishing and limited-edition appeal.
The rifle retains the open-top, top-eject receiver with a sliding dust cover and a lever-action toggle-link system true to the 1873 pattern. A full-length tubular magazine and rifle-style forearm cap complement the round blued barrel, giving the rifle a balanced short-rifle profile.
Chambered in .45 Colt, it uses a brass cartridge lifter marked "Cal. .45 Colt" and holds 10+1 rounds. Sighting is traditional, with a dovetailed front blade and a semi-buckhorn rear sight with elevator. The straight-grip walnut stock ends in a crescent steel buttplate, and the length of pull measures 13.0 inches.
As a factory Black Gold edition, this rifle is factory engraved with scrollwork and gold accents, including the distinctive oil-derrick panel scenes. The series-specific serial pattern ends in "…BG2015," aligning with the 2015 production. Built by Miroku in Japan for Winchester, it showcases precise manufacturing and collectible limited-run details.
Condition
Overall Condition: Very good condition, showing only light, superficial signs of prior handling or use.
Bore Condition: Excellent - Clean, mirror finish, no signs of wear.
Bore Rifling: Excellent Rifling - Sharp lands and grooves.
Specific Condition Notes: Minor superficial scratches and blemishes are present on exterior surfaces.
What's Included
- Winchester factory box with matching end label (M73 BLK GLD SHORT RIF, .45 Colt, 20"; serial …BG2015)
- Original manual
- Cable lock
The silver-tone receiver contrasts cleanly with the blued barrel and magazine tube, emphasizing the special-run finish. The rifle's open-top action and top-eject design maintain the hallmark look and function of the original pattern while the sliding dust cover adds period-correct detail.
This limited-edition configuration, coupled with factory engraving and the Black Gold markings, makes it a standout among reproduction Model 1873 rifles. The combination of traditional sights, classic furniture, and reliable toggle-link action underscores its authentic layout and handling.