The Winchester 1873 Deluxe Sporting Rifle is a lever-action chambered in .44-40 Win with a 24-inch half octagon, half round button-rifled barrel. Overall length is 43 inches, capacity is 14 rounds, and the rifle weighs 8 lbs. 
 

Key Specifications 

• Model: 1873 Deluxe Sporting 
• Manufacturer: Winchester 
• Caliber: .44-40 Win 
• Barrel Length: 24 inches 
• Overall Length: 43 inches 
• Capacity: 14 rounds 
• Weight: 8 lbs (0 oz) 
• Finish Per Color: Color Case Hardened 
   

Detailed Features 

The receiver is steel with a color case hardened finish. The barrel carries a gloss blued finish and the half octagon, half round profile gives it the look of period-correct Winchester rifles. The Grade V/VI walnut stock has an oil finish and a shotgun butt plate for a solid cheek-to-shoulder mount. The top tang is drilled and tapped for optional peep sights if you want to upgrade beyond the standard setup. 
 
The lever action cycles quickly for fast follow-up shots, which is why this configuration has been popular in cowboy action shooting circles. 
 

Usage 

The 1873 Deluxe is at home in cowboy action shooting matches and historical reenactments where period-correct design matters. It also works for hunting small to medium game with .44-40 cartridges. Collectors pick it up for the Grade V/VI walnut and color case hardened finish, which makes it a display piece as much as a shooter.

Discussions around the Winchester 1873 Deluxe tend to mix appreciation for its historical connection with straightforward evaluation of how it shoots. The lever action gets consistent praise for smooth operation, and the Grade V/VI walnut stock draws attention from collectors and shooters alike.

Accuracy and reliability in .44-40 are well-regarded. Users note it handles target shooting and hunting for small to medium game without issues. The .44-40 caliber's recoil is mild enough that most shooters find it easy to manage, though a few point out it may not be the first choice for complete beginners.

Cost and availability are recurring topics. Original and collector-grade examples carry a price premium, and that comes up in most buying discussions. On balance, users see the quality of materials and the lever action's smooth feel as justification for the price.