Manufactured in 1890, this is a high condition example of a Winchester Model 1873 small bore rifle. Winchester only manufactured approximately 19,552 Model 1873s in .22 short or .22 long between 1884 and 1904. It is a third model with integral dust cover rail and dust cover with serrations at the rear. The rifle is fitted with a dovetail blade front sight and an elevation adjustable buckhorn rear sight. The top barrel flat is stamped with the two-line Winchester legend ahead of the rear sight and "22 LONG" at the breech. The cartridge elevator is marked "22 CAL/LONG." The upper tang is marked with the model designation and the serial number is on the lower tang. It is mounted with a smooth forearm and straight grip stock with a crescent buttplate. The Model 1873 is one of the most famous of all American firearms and has been popularly known as "the Gun that Won the West" due to its popularity with pioneers. Today the Model 1873 holds a special place for modern collectors, especially those in high condition like this example. The Model 1873 was the first Winchester lever action to be chambered in .22 caliber. Rifles chambered in .22 long are scarcer than those in .22 short. As a "working man's gun" these models are becoming difficult to find in high condition.

Exceptionally fine, retaining 85% original blue finish with thinning to brown on the balance and some scattered evidence of being cleaned. 70% original case colors remain on the hammer and lever. Slight patterns of original case colors remain on the buttplate. The wood is very fine with minor dings and scratches and retaining most of the original varnish. Mechanically excellent. A highly attractive small bore Winchester Model 1873 rifle that would be a welcomed addition to any lever action collection.