Cimarron 1873 Short Rifle: Reliving the Legend of the Old West in .45 Colt

Are you searching for an authentic piece of American history, a firearm that embodies the spirit of the frontier, or the ideal lever-action rifle for competitive shooting? The Cimarron CA281 1873 Short Rifle chambered in .45 Colt (LC) is more than just a firearm; it's a meticulously crafted gateway to the Old West, designed for those who appreciate historical accuracy, classic aesthetics, and reliable performance. This remarkable rifle, with its iconic color case hardened receiver, rich wood stock, and robust 20-inch octagonal barrel, brings the legendary "Gun That Won The West" into the hands of today's enthusiasts, collectors, and competitive shooters.

For individuals dedicated to the art of Cowboy Action Shooting (CAS), where historical accuracy and rapid-fire proficiency are paramount, the Cimarron 1873 Short Rifle is an unparalleled choice. It's also perfect for collectors seeking a high-quality, functional reproduction that honors its heritage, or for recreational shooters who simply desire to experience the joy of handling and firing a truly classic American design. What makes the Cimarron 1873 a standout option for these diverse needs? It's the meticulous attention to detail, Cimarron's commitment to historical authenticity, and the inherent reliability of the original Winchester design.

The Enduring Legacy of the 1873 Winchester

The original Winchester Model 1873 is arguably the most famous lever-action rifle in American history. Manufactured from 1873 to 1919, with an astounding 541,000 units produced before 1900, it became an indispensable tool for pioneers, lawmen, cowboys, and settlers expanding across the American frontier. Known as "The Gun That Won The West," its rapid-fire capability, reliability, and the availability of cartridges like the .44-40 Winchester and later the .45 Colt, made it a true icon.

A few short years after its introduction, the 1873 rifle often formed an unbeatable duo with the equally famed Colt Single Action Army revolver, affectionately known as the "Peacemaker." This pairing became synonymous with the era, allowing a frontiersman to carry one type of ammunition for both his rifle and his sidearm – a significant logistical advantage in remote territories. The Winchester 1873 was produced in various configurations, from compact Trapper models and Carbines to longer-barreled rifles, each serving specific purposes but sharing the same rugged, dependable action.

Cimarron Firearms Co. has built its reputation on producing the finest, most authentic reproductions of Old West firearms, and their 1873 Short Rifle is a shining example of this commitment. When you choose a Cimarron firearm, you're not just buying a gun; you're investing in a piece of living history, crafted to perform with the reliability and feel of the originals.

Why Choose the .45 Colt (LC) Chambering for Your Lever-Action Rifle?

The .45 Colt (Long Colt) cartridge holds a special place in the annals of American firearms. Introduced in 1872 for the Colt Single Action Army revolver, it quickly gained favor for its potent ballistics and stopping power. When Winchester began chambering their 1873 rifles in pistol calibers like the .45 Colt, it revolutionized logistics for those on the frontier.

For modern shooters, the .45 Colt offers several advantages:

• Historical Authenticity: For enthusiasts of the Old West and Cowboy Action Shooting, using the .45 Colt in an 1873 rifle is as historically accurate as it gets, perfectly recreating the feel and performance of the period.
• Manageable Recoil: Despite its large caliber, the .45 Colt typically generates moderate recoil, making it comfortable to shoot for extended periods, especially in a rifle platform. This is a significant benefit for competitive shooters.
• Versatility: It's an excellent round for target shooting, plinking, and for specific hunting applications where permitted and appropriate for the game.
• Reloading Potential: For those who hand-load ammunition, the .45 Colt is a very forgiving and economical cartridge to reload, allowing for custom loads tailored to specific shooting needs.
• Availability: While perhaps not as ubiquitous as 9mm or .223, .45 Colt ammunition is widely available from various manufacturers.

The Cimarron 1873 Short Rifle's ability to hold 10+1 rounds of .45 Colt ensures ample capacity for competitive stages, recreational shooting sessions, or field use, minimizing the need for frequent reloads and keeping you focused on the experience.

Key Features and Design Excellence of the Cimarron CA281 1873 Short Rifle

What specific attributes make the Cimarron CA281 a premier choice for those seeking an authentic 1873 reproduction? Let's delve into the details that contribute to its exceptional quality and appeal:

• 20-Inch Octagonal Barrel: This barrel length strikes a perfect balance between maneuverability and ballistic performance. It's long enough to achieve excellent velocity from the .45 Colt cartridge while remaining compact enough for quick handling in competitive scenarios or in dense brush. The octagonal profile is not just aesthetically pleasing, evoking the classic frontier rifles; it also adds a slight rigidity and heat dissipation advantage over round barrels, contributing to consistent accuracy. The barrel features a blued finish, providing classic contrast and protection against the elements.
• Color Case Hardened Receiver: This is one of the most visually striking features of the Cimarron CA281. Color case hardening is a traditional metal treatment process that not only hardens the surface of the steel for increased durability but also creates unique, mottled patterns of blues, purples, browns, and grays. Each receiver is unique, making every rifle a one-of-a-kind work of art. This finish is historically correct for the period and adds significant aesthetic value.
• Beautiful Wood Stock: The rifle features a rich, brown-finished wood stock, typically made from high-grade walnut. The natural grain and warm feel of the wood perfectly complement the case-hardened receiver and blued barrel, contributing to the rifle's timeless appeal and comfortable handling. The stock's design adheres closely to the original 1873 specifications, ensuring an authentic shooting experience.
• Smooth Lever Action: The heart of any lever-action rifle is its action, and Cimarron's 1873 is renowned for its remarkably smooth and reliable operation. The lever is designed for quick and fluid cycling, allowing for rapid follow-up shots – a crucial advantage in Cowboy Action Shooting where speed and precision are rewarded. The robust steel receiver and internal components ensure longevity and consistent performance.
• Right Hand Configuration: Designed for right-handed shooters, the ergonomics of the stock and lever are optimized for comfortable and intuitive operation.
• Overall Length (OAL) of 43.25 inches: This dimension reflects the "short rifle" designation, providing a balanced and easily handled firearm. The weight of approximately 7.90 lbs contributes to stability during shooting while remaining manageable for extended periods of carry or competition.
• Twist Rate of 1:16": This barrel twist rate is optimized for stabilizing the common bullet weights found in .45 Colt ammunition, ensuring excellent accuracy for a wide range of loads.
• Application - Field Ready: While a prime candidate for competition and collecting, the Cimarron 1873 is also fully capable for appropriate field use, whether it's target shooting outdoors or, where legal and ethical, hunting small to medium game.

Who Will Benefit Most from the Cimarron CA281 1873 Short Rifle?

This rifle is a superb choice for several groups of firearm enthusiasts:

• Cowboy Action Shooters (CAS) & SASS Competitors: This is arguably the primary audience. The Cimarron 1873 Short Rifle in .45 Colt is a staple in the sport. Its historical authenticity, reliable lever action, and suitable capacity make it a top contender for those aiming for speed and accuracy in timed stages. It pairs perfectly with .45 Colt revolvers, simplifying ammunition logistics.
• Historical Firearm Collectors: For those who appreciate the design and legacy of classic American firearms, the CA281 offers a meticulously crafted reproduction that accurately reflects the original's aesthetics and mechanics. It's a functional display piece that holds significant historical value.
• Old West Reenactors: The authentic appearance and feel of this Cimarron rifle make it ideal for historical reenactments, adding an unparalleled layer of realism to the portrayal of frontier life.
• Recreational Shooters: If you enjoy shooting classic firearms, the Cimarron 1873 provides an incredibly satisfying experience. The rhythmic action of levering a new round into the chamber and the distinct report of the .45 Colt are uniquely gratifying.
• Hunters (where applicable): In jurisdictions where a pistol-caliber rifle is suitable and legal for hunting, the .45 Colt in a 20-inch barrel offers sufficient energy for certain types of game, making this rifle a versatile tool for the ethical outdoorsman.

Maintaining Your Cimarron 1873 Short Rifle

To ensure your Cimarron 1873 Short Rifle remains in pristine condition and performs reliably for years to come, proper care and maintenance are essential. After each shooting session, a thorough cleaning of the bore and action will remove powder residue and lead fouling. Pay particular attention to the internal mechanisms of the lever action, ensuring they are free of debris and lightly lubricated. The wood stock can be cleaned with a damp cloth and occasionally treated with a gun stock oil to preserve its finish. The color case hardened receiver should be wiped down to remove fingerprints and moisture, as it can be more susceptible to corrosion than blued finishes if not properly cared for. Storing the rifle in a climate-controlled environment, ideally in a padded gun case or safe, will protect it from environmental damage.

The Cimarron CA281 1873 Short Rifle stands as a testament to an era of American innovation and resilience. It's a firearm that bridges the past and the present, offering a genuine piece of history that is both beautiful to behold and exhilarating to shoot. Its robust construction, historical accuracy, and Cimarron's unwavering commitment to quality ensure that this rifle will be a cherished possession for generations. This rifle, with UPC 814230010254, is readily available for discerning enthusiasts.

Detailed Specifications

Attribute	Detail
Brand	Cimarron
Model	1873 Short Rifle
Caliber	.45 Colt (LC)
Capacity	10+1 Rounds
Barrel Length	20 Inches
Barrel Finish	Blued
Barrel Material	Steel
Barrel Type	Octagon
Receiver Finish	Color Case Hardened
Receiver Material	Steel
Stock Material	Wood
Stock Finish	Wood (Brown)
Action	Lever Action
Hand	Right Hand
Overall Length	43.25 Inches
Weight	7.90 lbs
Twist Rate	1:16"
Application	Field, Competition, Collection
SKU	103025
MPN	CA281
UPC	814230010254