April 9th & 10th Premier Firearms Sale (MFIRE)
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 4/9/2016
20” barrel in .44-40 caliber. Manufactured in 1891. Offered is the classic Winchester Model 1873 Saddle Ring Carbine in .44 caliber. It is standard in all respects. Features full magazine, carbine post front sight, folding carbine ladder rear sight, two barrel bands, saddle ring with stud, walnut stocks, and carbine butt plate. One of the most coveted of all Winchester firearms are the 1873 Saddle Ring Carbines that are all original and still retain the majority of their original factory finish, having never been touched. This is one such example. Given that these carbines are almost always well-used and show various degrees of damage or excessive wear, to find one in a condition such as this is very rare. The barrel and tube retain approximately 85% of the original factory blue finish with the balance simply blending to a soft aged smooth patina. The barrel bands still retain 30% - 40% of the brilliant high polish blue. Barrel legends are sharp as new. Rear sight is dated 1873 and has bright blue on elevator. The bottom right and left side of the frame still retain 70-80% of the lustrous mirror finish high polish blue, as does the loading gate. Sides of the lever have traces of case colors while the hammer retains brilliant case colors. Rear tang stamped “Model 1873” retains all of its original blue finish. Carbine butt plate is a smooth soft gun metal grey. Trap holds the original brass cleaning rod. Walnut stocks are near mint with original finish, proud to metal, no cracks, and only the most insignificant of impressions. The bore is near mint and shiny. Action is like new. A truly phenomenal survivor that was well-cared for and saw very little use. A top condition example of the iconic all-time classic Winchester Model 1873 lever action carbine. Factory research: shipped March 14, 1891; .44 caliber carbine.