This is a Third Model that was manufactured in 1873. The top barrel flat is marked with the two line address/King's improvement patent dates and the serial number is marked on the bottom of the receiver directly behind the trigger. There is a 1 3/8 inch machined oval on the top barrel flat at the breech with a dovetailed fixed sight in the center. Dovetailed, full length magazine tube and mounted with a smooth walnut forearm with brass forend cap and straight grip stock with a decorative silver overlay on the left side and a crescent brass buttplate. The rifle is accompanied by a notarized letter from a Charles Baxley dated March 17, 1967 stating that the rifle was the personal property of Hugo Kramer who was a Texas Ranger for 7 years. The rifle was reportedly handed down to Mr. Baxley through the family, (beginning with his wife's great grandmother). Also with the rifle is a brief chronicle of Mr. Kramers life, which does mention him being a Deputy Sheriff, but nothing about a Texas Ranger, and copies of what appear to be newspaper articles all in German.

Good. The barrel and magazine tube have a smooth brown patina. The receiver and buttplate have a pleasant dark aged patina. The wood is good with minor cracks on the right side of the wrist, a number of deep scratches on both sides of the stock, and overall scattered minor dents, dings and scratches. The stock remains solid. The markings are clear. The action is fine. A very colorful Old West Winchester Model 1866 rifle!