This Winchester Model 1873 features special order features and a desirable casehardened frame. The accompanying factory letter confirms the caliber, special order 26 inch octagon barrel, plain trigger and casehardened frame. (no mention of the shotgun butt) The rifle was received in the warehouse on March 17, 1883, and shipped out on the same day on order number 3040. It is equipped with a front sight featuring a replacement blade, elevation adjustable rear sight and Third Model receiver with integral dust cover rail and dust cover with serrated edges. The top barrel flat has the two-line address/patent marking ahead of the rear sight and "38-CAL" at the breech. The brass cartridge elevator is marked "38 CAL." "MODEL 1873" is stamped on the upper tang. The serial number appears on the lower tang behind the lever catch. Mounted on a smooth forearm and straight grip stock with forend cap and special order steel shotgun buttplate.

Very good plus. The barrel and magazine retain heavy traces of original blue finish in the protected areas, and the frame retains traces of original color casehardened in the protected areas with mostly silvered out patterns of original case colors remaining, all with the balance of a mottled gray patina. The wood is fine with a number of minor scratches and some minor pressure dents. Mechanically excellent.