Lot 4: Antique Winchester Model 1873 Lever Action Musket

Manufactured in 1892 this Winchester Model 1873 Musket is a Third Model with the guide rail integrally machined as part of the receiver and features a 30 inch barrel, 27 inch magazine, musket forend with three barrel bands, square base front sight/bayonet lug, military style folding leaf rear sight graduated to 800 yards and carbine style buttplate with buttstock compartment (cleaning rod not included). The middle barrel band and butt are fitted with sling swivels. The top of the barrel is marked "WINCHESTER'S REPEATING ARMS NEW HAVEN. CT./KING'S IMPROVEMENT PATENTED MARCH 29.1866. OCTOBER 16. 1860." in front of the rear sight. The caliber designation "44 CAL" is at the breech and on the bottom of the brass cartridge elevator. The upper tang is marked "MODEL.1873." flanked by the foliate design and the lower tang is marked with the serial number. The hammer, lever and buttplate are casehardened, and the remaining surfaces are blue. Mounted with a smooth oiled walnut forearm and straight grip stock.

Fine. The rifle retains 50% plus of the original blue finish with the balance a mottled brown patina with scattered scratches and light pitting overall. The casehardened hammer, lever, and buttplate have vivid case colors in the protected areas. The brass elevator has a smooth dark patina. The markings are legible. The wood is also fine with scattered scratches and dings. Mechanically fine.