This is a solid representative example of a Winchester Second Model 1873 that was manufactured in 1879 with the receiver dust cover rail secured by two screws and dust cover with oval checkered thumb print. The top of the barrel ahead of the rear sight is marked with the two line address/King's Improvement patent dates, the upper tang is marked "MODEL 1873", and the serial number is on the lower tang. The barrel and cartridge elevator are correctly not stamped with a caliber designation as early production Model 1873 rifles and carbines were only chambered for the .44 W.C.F. cartridge. German silver blade front and adjustable buckhorn sporting rear sights. Mounted with a smooth walnut forearm with metal forend cap and straight grip stock with a crescent buttplate with compartment (cleaning rod not included).