The Cimarron 1873 Deluxe Short Rifle is a lever-action chambered in .44 Special, built on a color case-hardened receiver with a blued 20-inch octagonal barrel and a walnut stock. The engraving on the receiver is part of the standard Deluxe package, not an upgrade. 
 

Key Specifications 

• Brand: Cimarron 
• Model: 1873 Deluxe Short Rifle 
• Caliber: .44 Special 
• Barrel Length: 20 inches (Octagonal) 
• Capacity: 10+1 rounds 
• Action Type: Lever Action 
• Finish: Color Case Hardened Receiver with Blued Barrel 
• Stock Material: Wood (Walnut) 
• Condition: New in Box 
   

Detailed Features 

 
The 20-inch octagonal barrel gives the rifle a period-correct silhouette and contributes to the overall balance. .44 Special is a mild cartridge by rifle standards -- recoil is light, and the round works for both target shooting and small-game hunting. 
 
The lever action cycles smoothly on most examples, though some buyers report a short break-in period before it reaches its best feel. The color case hardening and bluing are applied well and hold up to regular range use. 
 

Usage Scenarios 

 
The 1873 Deluxe fits naturally into cowboy action shooting, where period-correct lever guns are required. Historical reenactors and collectors will find the fit and finish acceptable for display or light use. It also works as a general range rifle for anyone who prefers lever actions over semi-autos.

The Cimarron 1873 Deluxe in .44 Special gets mostly positive marks, with the biggest praise going to the build quality and aesthetics. The walnut stock, case hardening, and engraving hold up well in person, and the lever action is generally described as smooth.

On performance, most users report good accuracy and reliable feeding once the rifle is broken in. A minority mention occasional feeding issues early on, which typically resolve with use. Ammunition choice matters -- some loads produce tighter groups than others, which is typical for this caliber.

Weight opinions split: the rifle is manageable for most shooters at the range, but a few find it heavy for extended field carry. The .44 Special chambering draws consistent praise for its reduced recoil compared to magnum options.

Price is a recurring discussion point. Buyers who prioritize fit, finish, and the 1873 pattern generally feel the cost is justified. Those comparing it purely on function against cheaper alternatives tend to see it as a premium over the baseline.

Customer service experiences with Cimarron vary -- positive interactions are reported, but some buyers have encountered slow response times when seeking parts or warranty support. Worth factoring in before purchasing.