The Model 1873 is the classic "Gun that Won the West" and was popular with the Texas Rangers and many others in the late 19th century. This "third model" was manufactured in 1883 and has the integral dust cover guide rail, the front sight just behind the front barrel band, the reversed style notch and ladder rear sight, the two-line address and patent marking, no caliber markings, a saddle ring on the left, the model on the upper tang, carbine forearm and buttstock (compartment empty) and a full-nickel plated finish. Nickel plating was a flashy and more durable option for a frontier saddle gun. Nickel plating resists corrosion better than blued finish.

Fine with 75% original nickel on the frame and hammer, patches of original nickel on the more protected areas of the barrel, magazine tube, and furniture; and mottled gray and brown patina as well as mild oxidation and pitting on the exposed surfaces. The wood is good and has some dents and surface flakes, minor chipping at the edges of the wrist, a coat of oil, and mild overall wear. Mechanically fine. Overall, a flashy variation of Winchester's frontier classic.