The Uberti 1873 Competition is a lever-action rifle chambered in .45 Colt, built on the pattern of the original Winchester Model 1873 that defined the Old West era. The 20-inch octagonal barrel is blued, the action is case hardened, and the stock is A-grade walnut — a combination that's as much about looks as function. 
 

Key Specifications 

• Model: 1873 Competition 
• Caliber: .45 Colt (45 LC) 
• Action: Lever Action 
• Barrel Length: 20 inches 
• Capacity: 10 rounds 
• Finish: Walnut/Blued Case Hardened 
• Weight: 8 lbs. 
• Overall Length: 39 inches 
• Barrel Type: Octagonal with Right Twist 
• Number of Grooves: 6 
   

Detailed Features 

• Lever Action Mechanism: Smooth cycling that allows quick follow-up shots — standard for cowboy action shooting competition. 
• Octagonal Barrel: 20 inches with 6-groove rifling and right-hand twist. The octagonal profile is period-correct and adds some top-end weight that helps with muzzle control. 
• A-Grade Walnut Stock: Solid walnut with a straight grip profile typical of the original 1873 configuration. 
• Right-Hand Configuration: Made for right-handed shooters. 
   

Usage Scenarios 

• Cowboy Action Shooting: The 1873 Competition is a direct fit for SASS and similar events where .45 Colt lever-actions are a primary division firearm. 
• Hunting: .45 Colt generates enough energy for medium game at reasonable distances. 
• Recreational Range Use: The action is engaging to run and the caliber is mild enough to shoot for hours without fatigue.

Owners of the Uberti 1873 Competition in .45 Colt tend to talk about it in the context of cowboy action shooting, where it's a common choice. The fit, finish, and historical accuracy of the design get consistent praise — Uberti's Italian production quality shows up in the walnut-to-metal fitment and the smoothness of the lever cycle.

On the practical side, most users report smooth, reliable cycling with standard .45 Colt loads. The 8 lb weight is heavier than a rifle this size might suggest, and that comes up occasionally among shooters who run multiple stages at a match, though many find the weight helps dampen recoil.

Aftermarket support is decent for the platform, and discussions about springs, extractors, and action jobs are common in cowboy action communities where any small improvement in cycling speed matters competitively. Overall the sentiment is positive, with the rifle treated as a durable, well-made representative of the type.