Winchester Model 1873 Short Rifle .45 LC 20″ Case Colored/Walnut
About this product
The Winchester Model 1873 Short Rifle .45 LC 20″ Case Colored/Walnut is a faithful reproduction of the classic lever-action that won the West. Chambered in .45 Long Colt with a 20-inch barrel, this rifle pairs a color case-hardened receiver with a polished blued barrel and a satin oiled walnut straight-grip stock. It’s built for the shooter who wants authentic handling and reliable performance, right out of the box.
| Manufacturer | Winchester Repeating Arms |
|---|---|
| Model | 1873 Short Rifle |
| Material | Steel receiver and barrel, Grade II/III walnut stock |
| Compatibility | .45 Long Colt (LC) ammunition |
| Finish | Color case hardened receiver with polished blued barrel |
| Weight | Approximately 8.5 lbs (per manufacturer specs) |
| Condition | New |
Key Features
- Authentic 20″ Barrel Length: Why it matters: Shorter than the standard 24-inch rifle barrel, it balances faster handling in tight spaces with the full power of .45 LC – ideal for brush hunting or cowboy action shooting.
- Color Case Hardened Receiver: Why it matters: This traditional finish not only looks the part but also provides a durable, wear-resistant surface that ages gracefully with use.
- Grade II/III Satin Oil Walnut Stock: Why it matters: The straight-grip stock offers a classic feel and a non-slip surface, even in wet conditions, and the satin oil finish protects the wood without being overly glossy.
- Full-Length Magazine Tube: Why it matters: Holds up to 13 rounds of .45 LC, letting you stay in the action longer between reloads – a real advantage on the range or in the field.
- Traditional Sights – Semi-Buckhorn Rear & Marble’s Gold Bead Front: Why it matters: These open sights are fast to acquire and adjustable for elevation, giving you a clear sight picture for both target work and hunting. The rear tang is also drilled and tapped for optional tang-mounted peep sights.
Who It’s For
This rifle is built for the enthusiast who appreciates the history and handling of a classic lever-action. It’s a great fit for cowboy action shooters, hunters who prefer a lighter, more maneuverable rifle in .45 LC, and collectors who want a shooter-grade 1873 that looks the part. New shooters will find the straight-grip stock and smooth lever throw easy to learn on.
Pros / Cons
- Pros: Authentic period-correct styling; smooth, reliable action; manageable weight for all-day carry; available in the versatile .45 LC cartridge.
- Cons: The open sights may not suit shooters who prefer a modern optic; the color case hardening can show wear over time if not properly maintained. One honest drawback: the 20-inch barrel, while handy, gives up some velocity compared to a 24-inch model.
Comparison
| Feature | Winchester 1873 Short Rifle | Marlin 1894 Classic .45 LC | Uberti 1873 Sporting Rifle .45 LC |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barrel Length | 20″ | 20″ | 24″ |
| Receiver Finish | Color case hardened | Blued steel | Color case hardened |
| Stock | Grade II/III satin oil walnut | American black walnut | Walnut |
| Magazine | Full-length tube (13 rounds) | Half-length tube (9 rounds) | Full-length tube (13 rounds) |
| Weight | ~8.5 lbs | ~7.5 lbs | ~9 lbs |
| Price Range | $1,600 | $1,200–$1,400 | $1,400–$1,600 |
The Winchester 1873 stands out with its higher-grade walnut and classic case coloring. The Marlin is lighter and less expensive but uses a half-length mag. The Uberti offers a longer barrel for more velocity but is heavier. For most shooters, the Winchester hits the sweet spot of authenticity and shootability.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Winchester Model 1873 Short Rifle safe to use with modern .45 LC ammunition?
Yes, this rifle is built to handle modern .45 Long Colt loads. Per Winchester specs, it’s designed for standard pressure .45 LC ammunition. Always follow the manual and avoid +P loads unless specifically stated.
Can I mount a scope or red dot on this rifle?
The receiver is not drilled and tapped for a scope mount, but the rear tang is drilled and tapped for an optional tang-mounted peep sight. For most shooters, the traditional open sights are plenty accurate for the intended uses.
What is the magazine capacity of this rifle?
The full-length magazine tube holds up to 13 rounds of .45 LC, depending on barrel length and cartridge overall length. That’s more than enough for a full stage in cowboy action shooting or a quick follow-up shot on game.
How does the 20-inch barrel affect accuracy?
The 20-inch barrel is stiff and accurate for its length. You’ll get reliable minute-of-angle performance at typical hunting distances (50–100 yards) with good ammunition. The shorter barrel also makes the rifle faster to point and swing.
Ready to Own a Piece of History?
This Winchester Model 1873 Short Rifle .45 LC 20″ Case Colored/Walnut is in stock and ready to ship. Whether you’re a cowboy action shooter, a hunter, or a collector, this rifle delivers the feel and function of the original with modern reliability.
- ✅ Nationwide delivery (all 50 states)
- ✅ Ships 1–2 business days
- ✅ 30-day returns
- ✅ Secure checkout
Explore more lever-action rifles in our Lever Action Rifles category, or check out Cowboy Action Shooting Gear and .45 LC Ammunition.
Last updated: April 2026