Lot 2: Winchester 1873 Musket 44 WCF

Manufactured in 1903 this Winchester Model 1873 musket is a Third Model with the guide rail integrally machined as part of the receiver and features a 30" round barrel, 27" magazine, full length 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 containing an original 5 piece cleaning rod. 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 W.C.F" is located behind the rear sight. "44 CAL" is also marked on the bottom of the brass cartridge elevator. The top of the receiver tang is marked "MODEL.1873." flanked by the foliate design and the lower tang is marked with the serial number. The hammer, lever, trigger and buttplate are casehardened and the remaining surfaces are blue. Mounted with a smooth oiled walnut forearm and straight grip stock. Complete with an unmarked bayonet.

Excellent. The musket retains 98% plus of the original blue finish with some wear on the muzzle from the bayonet and some thinning on the barrel bands. There is some protective coating on the receiver and some normal usage wear on the dust cover rail. The hammer, trigger and lever retain 97% original case colors with areas that have faded to a smooth gray patina. The buttplate retains 90% original case colors with a smooth silver gray on the heel and some minor oxidation. With the exception of a number of small pressure dents on the left side of the forearm, the wood is excellent with a scratch on the left toe and a few scattered minor dings and dents. The markings remain crisp and clear. The action is excellent. The bayonet is good as polished bright. A truly exceptional Winchester Model 1873 musket in nearly new condition.