Manufactured in 1876 as a first model carbine with the distinctive dust cover held in place by grooved guides on either side of the receiver, dust over with a checkered oval finger grip on top and lever latch with visible screw threads. The included Cody Firearms Records Office serial number confirmation list this Model 1873 as a carbine when received in the warehouse on January 8, 1877, and shipped on July 25, 1877. The front sight is integral to the barrel band, and there is a two leaf rear sight. The barrel is stamped with the two-line address/patent dates marking. "MODEL 1873" is stamped on the upper tang. The carbine correctly lacks caliber markings. A saddle ring is mounted on the left side of the receiver. Mounted on a carbine stock with trapdoor buttplate (cleaning rod not included).

Fine, retaining 40% plus original blue finish with the balance between smooth brown and gray patinas. 30% original nitre blue remain on the loading gate. Traces of original case colors remain on the hammer and lever. The wood is also fine with a stress crack near the buttplate tang and minor to moderate dings and scratches. Mechanically excellent.