Winchester Model 1873 Third Model Sporting Rifle, .44-40 Win, 24-Inch Round Barrel, 1890 Manufacture
This Winchester Repeating Arms Model 1873 Third Model Sporting Rifle is an 1890 production example chambered in .44-40 Win. It features the Third Model's top-eject receiver with sliding dust cover, a 24-inch round barrel with a full-length tubular magazine, and classic walnut furniture. The bore condition is excellent, offering a bright, mirror finish with sharp rifling—standout traits for a rifle of this era.
Condition
Overall Condition: Good condition, showing some signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Overall Condition: Excellent - Clean, mirror finish, no signs of wear.
Bore Rifling: Excellent Rifling - Sharp lands and grooves.
Specific Condition Notes: Handling marks are minimal and consistent with prior use. Please refer to the photos for a detailed view of surfaces and markings.
What’s Included
- Winchester Model 1873 Third Model Sporting Rifle in .44-40 Win
This Third Model configuration includes the top-ejecting receiver with a sliding dust cover that rides on an integral guide rail with a rear spring—hallmark features of the late 1873 pattern. The action retains the characteristic two removable sideplates. The upper tang carries the "Model 1873" marking with decorative scrolls, and the lower tang shows the serial suffix "B."
The Sporting Rifle setup here combines a 24-inch round barrel with a full-length tubular magazine. A slotted magazine end plug and a single magazine hanger near the muzzle complete the muzzle-end details. Capacity is 10 rounds of .44-40 Win.
Stocking is classic rifle trim: a straight-grip walnut buttstock paired with a walnut rifle forend and steel nosecap. The steel crescent buttplate includes a trapdoor for cleaning-rod storage. Length of pull measures 12.5 inches.
Sighting is traditional, with a dovetailed blade front and an adjustable rear sight. The rifle was manufactured in the United States during the 1890s and qualifies as an antique.