Manufactured in 1903, with the standard two line King's improvement marking on top of the barrel ahead of the rear sight and "44 W.C.F." at the breech. The upper tang is marked "MODEL 1873" flanked by fancy brackets and the lower tang has the serial number followed by the letter "B" for the variation in the action. The brass elevator is marked "44 CAL". The front sight is an inverted "V" on a block which doubles as the bayonet lug and the rear sight is a single leaf with sliding bar graduated to 800 yards. Finished blue with casehardened hammer, trigger and lever. Mounted with a smooth walnut forearm secured by three barrel bands and straight grip stock with a steel crescent buttplate, with compartment (cleaning rod not included) and sling swivels. Comes with an 18 inch triangular socket bayonet.

Exceptionally fine. The rifle retains 85% plus bright original blue finish with some rust on the muzzle end of the barrel and front sight. There is some rust on the lever and some scattered spotting on the receiver. There is some edge wear and a few minor scratches on the receiver as well. The buttplate has been cleaned and shows some minor pitting. Much of the original case colors remain on the hammer and trigger. The wood is also fine with some scattered minor dings and dents. The bayonet is good, showing signs of some cleaning, some rust on the socket, and overall a silver gray patina with some scattered minor spotting and pitting. The markings are crisp and clear. The action is excellent.