The Winchester Model 1873 was extremely popular with those heading to the American West, in part because they could be paired with a trusty Colt Single Action Army revolver in the same caliber. This example was manufactured in 1883 as a Third Model with integral dust cover guide and dust cover with grip serrations at the rear. The two line address and King's patent marking are on the top barrel flat along with the caliber marking at the breech. The caliber marking is repeated on the bottom of the cartridge elevator, model designation on the upper tang, and serial number on the lower tang. The left side of the lower tang is marked "2333 S", with "2333" repeated in the stock inlet and inside the buttplate. It is fitted with a German silver blade front sight and elevation adjustable notch rear sight. It is mounted with a smooth forearm and straight grip stock with a smooth shotgun buttplate. The included factory letter confirms the current configuration apart from the shotgun buttplate, as well as receipt at the warehouse on 28 July 1883 and shipment two days later in order 5784. While the shotgun buttplate is not listed in the letter, this in undoubtedly a factory oversight on the ledger as the assembly numbers match and carry the "S" for a shotgun buttplate.

Very good, showing all the signs of a well cared for western working rifle, retains 30% of the original blue finish and 40% of the vibrant case colors on the hammer and lever with the balance mostly a smooth grey patina. The re-oiled wood is also very good, showing the care of an owner that depended on it, with only a few scattered minor handling marks throughout. Mechanically excellent.