Manufactured in 1884 as a deluxe third model (dust cover guide rail integral to the receiver and dust cover featuring serrated finger grip on the rear) variation of the Model 1873 rifle with rare special order features such as a 32 inch barrel and single set trigger. Both of these features are confirmed in the factory letter. The accompanying factory letter lists this rifle with a 32 inch octagon barrel in .38 caliber, set trigger, checkered stock, and globe and graduated peep sights when received in the warehouse on January 16, 1884, and shipped the next day. The top barrel flat is stamped with the two-line address/King's improvement patent dates marking ahead of the rear sight and "38-CAL" at the breech. The brass cartridge elevator is marked "38 CAL." The serial number is marked on the lower tang directly behind the lever latch. The upper tang is marked "MODEL 1873." The rifle is fitted with a globe front sight, elevation adjustable rear sight, and long range tang peep sight. Mounted on highly figured checkered walnut forearm and straight grip stock. The buttstock is fitted with a crescent buttplate featuring a compartment holding a 5-piece cleaning rod.

Very good. The rifle retains scattered traces of original blue finish and silvered out original case colors in the protected areas with the balance a mottled brown-gray patina. The refinished wood is also very good with a missing sizeable surface chip on the stock wrist (right side), a number of minor dings and scratches, and some blemishes in the overall crisp checkering. The set trigger does not function, but the action cycles properly. A deluxe Model 1873 rifle with factory documented special order features would be a welcomed addition to any Winchester lever action collection.