The Taylors & Co. 1873 is a lever-action rifle chambered in .357 Magnum, with a 20-inch octagonal barrel and a case-hardened receiver paired with a blued barrel finish. The walnut stock has a brown finish. At 7.90 lbs and 39 inches overall, it's compact for a lever gun. Capacity is 10+1 rounds. 
 

Key Specifications 

• Model: 1873 Lever 
• Caliber: .357 Magnum 
• Action: Lever Action 
• Capacity: 10+1 rounds 
• Barrel Length: 20 inches (Octagonal) 
• Overall Length (OAL): 39 inches 
• Weight: 7.90 lbs 
• Finish: Case Hardened with Blued Barrel Finish 
• Grip Type: Standard 
• Stock Material: Walnut (Brown Finish) 
• Sights: Blade Front & Buckhorn Rear 
   

Features 

 
The lever action cycles smoothly and reliably. The octagonal barrel is period-correct to the 1873 Winchester design. Blade front and buckhorn rear sights work adequately at the distances this caliber is typically used. The walnut stock absorbs some recoil and the case-hardened receiver is durable. 
 

Usage 

 
The .357 Magnum is versatile. It handles small to medium game hunting and works well in cowboy action shooting competitions. It also accepts .38 Special if you want to reduce recoil for practice. Shooters who are primarily experienced with bolt-action or semi-automatic rifles may need some time adjusting to lever action cycling. At 7.90 lbs the rifle is on the heavier side for a 20-inch lever gun but this aids stability when shooting.

Owners of the Taylors & Co. 1873 in .357 Mag generally appreciate both the look and the function.

The walnut and case-hardened finish combination draws consistent praise. It has a period-correct appearance that appeals to collectors and cowboy action shooters. The lever action runs smoothly and the rifle is considered reliable. The .357 Magnum caliber is liked for being versatile, suitable for target shooting and hunting, and many owners also run .38 Special through it for lighter practice loads.

The weight and historical significance come up frequently in discussions. Some find the 7.90 lbs a bit heavy; others see it as contributing to stability and a more substantial feel. Shooters coming from semi-autos occasionally note a learning curve with the lever action, but nothing serious.

Overall the sentiment is positive, with the rifle held in genuine regard as a well-made piece that delivers on its intended purpose.