Winchester Model 1873 Third Model .22 Short Lever-Action Rifle, 24" Octagonal Barrel (1886)
This antique Winchester Model 1873 Third Model is a rimfire .22 Short variant built in 1886 with a 24" octagonal barrel and a full-length tubular magazine. It features the correct rimfire-specific bolt and firing-pin arrangement, a brass lifter marked "22 CAL. SHORT.", and top-eject operation. Clear model and caliber markings, classic walnut furniture, and its Third Model configuration make this an appealing, period-correct example for collectors.
Condition
Overall Condition: Good condition, showing some signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Condition: Fair - Generally clean, some residue or smudges, slight corrosion.
Bore Rifling: Fair Rifling - Worn rifling, slight loss of definition.
Specific Condition Notes: The walnut stock and fore-end show minimal handling wear. The receiver displays very mild finish loss, while the barrel shows heavier finish loss. The bore shows mild frosting.
What’s Included
- Winchester Model 1873 Third Model .22 Short rifle
Built during the 1880s and documented to 1886, this Third Model retains hallmark features including the top-eject receiver and the proven toggle-link mechanism. The tang is marked "Model, 1873.", and the serial number is present on the lower tang.
Chambered in .22 Short, this variant uses a dedicated rimfire bolt and firing-pin system designed for reliable ignition with the small rimfire cartridge. The brass cartridge lifter is correctly stamped "22 CAL. SHORT.", and the barrel carries a matching "22 SHORT" caliber stamp.
The 24" octagonal barrel and full-length tubular magazine deliver a period-correct profile and generous capacity. Factory-style iron sights consist of a dovetailed front blade and an elevation-adjustable rear sight with a ladder/elevator design.
Classic walnut furniture includes a straight-grip stock with crescent buttplate and a walnut fore-end. The length of pull measures 12.5". Overall, it is a well-configured Third Model that presents the correct markings, mechanics, and configuration sought by Winchester collectors.