Experience the Legend: The Cimarron 1873 Sporting Rifle in .45 Colt

Step back into the rugged heart of the American West with the Cimarron CA282 1873 Sporting Rifle. This isn't merely a firearm; it's a meticulously crafted homage to an era defined by resilience, innovation, and the spirit of exploration. For enthusiasts of historical firearms, competitive cowboy action shooters, or collectors seeking a piece of functional art, this rifle offers an unparalleled blend of authenticity, performance, and classic American design.

Imagine holding the "Gun that Won the West" in your hands, not as a museum piece, but as a fully capable, modern-day repeater. The Cimarron 1873 Sporting Rifle, chambered in the iconic .45 Colt, brings that vision to life. It's the ideal choice for anyone asking: "What is the best lever-action rifle for cowboy action shooting?" or "Where can I find an authentic reproduction of a classic Old West rifle?" This detailed description will explore every facet of this magnificent firearm, helping you understand why it stands out in a market of historical replicas.

Why the Cimarron CA282 1873 Sporting Rifle Stands Apart

Choosing a rifle is a significant decision, especially when delving into historical reproductions. The Cimarron CA282 offers a unique combination of features that address the core desires of its intended audience:

• Unrivaled Authenticity: Cimarron Firearms is renowned for its dedication to historical accuracy. The CA282 isn't just inspired by the original 1873 Winchester; it's a faithful recreation, ensuring that every curve, every line, and every detail resonates with the spirit of the Old West. This level of authenticity is crucial for reenactors, collectors, and competitive shooters who value historical correctness in their equipment.
• Superior Craftsmanship and Durability: Built to last, this rifle features robust construction, including a stunning color case hardened receiver and a finely finished wood stock. These aren't just cosmetic touches; they contribute to the rifle's longevity and ability to withstand the rigors of regular use, whether on the range or in the field.
• Exceptional Performance in .45 Colt: The .45 Colt (Long Colt) cartridge is synonymous with the Old West and remains a popular choice today for its versatility and manageable recoil. It's powerful enough for ethical hunting of medium-sized game and provides excellent accuracy for target shooting and competitive events.
• Smooth and Reliable Lever Action: The heart of any 1873 rifle is its legendary lever-action mechanism. Cimarron's rendition is engineered for buttery-smooth operation, allowing for rapid follow-up shots and consistent feeding, which is a significant advantage in timed shooting competitions.

A Closer Look at Key Features

Every component of the Cimarron CA282 1873 Sporting Rifle is meticulously crafted to enhance its functionality and aesthetic appeal.

The Iconic .45 Colt (LC) Chambering

The choice of the .45 Colt cartridge for this rifle is no accident.

• Historical Significance: Originally introduced in 1872 for the Colt Single Action Army revolver, the .45 Colt quickly became a staple of the American frontier. Its adoption in lever-action rifles like the 1873 Winchester created a versatile combination for cowboys, lawmen, and frontiersmen, allowing them to carry one ammunition type for both their sidearm and rifle.
• Modern Relevance: Today, the .45 Colt remains highly relevant. For cowboy action shooters, it offers a distinct advantage with its large, easy-to-handle rounds and generally milder recoil, making transitions between targets smooth and efficient. For hunters, it's an effective cartridge for deer and hogs at moderate ranges, delivering significant energy transfer. Its versatility also makes it an excellent round for recreational shooting, offering a satisfying report and visible impact on targets.

The Distinguished 24-Inch Octagonal Barrel

The 24-inch octagonal barrel is a defining feature of the Sporting Rifle model, offering both aesthetic beauty and practical benefits.

• Enhanced Accuracy: The increased length of the 24-inch barrel provides a longer sight radius, which inherently contributes to greater precision for the shooter. The added weight of the octagonal profile also helps to stabilize the rifle during aiming and reduce muzzle rise during firing, leading to tighter groups on target.
• Classic Appearance: The octagonal shape is instantly recognizable and adds a distinct historical charm to the rifle, distinguishing it from round-barreled carbines. It's a hallmark of quality and traditional craftsmanship, appealing deeply to collectors and purists.
• Heat Dissipation: The increased surface area of an octagonal barrel compared to a round one can aid in dissipating heat more effectively during extended shooting sessions, helping to maintain barrel integrity and accuracy.

The Allure of Color Case Hardening

The receiver of the Cimarron CA282 showcases a vibrant color case hardened finish, a testament to traditional gunmaking artistry.

• Aesthetic Masterpiece: This process creates a unique, swirling pattern of blues, purples, browns, and grays that makes each rifle visually distinct and captivating. It's a finish that truly sets a high-quality historical reproduction apart.
• Surface Hardness and Durability: Beyond its beauty, color case hardening is a heat treatment process that increases the surface hardness of the steel, providing a durable and resilient layer that protects against wear and corrosion. This means your rifle not only looks magnificent but is also built for lasting performance.

The Timeless Elegance of the Wood Stock

The Cimarron 1873 Sporting Rifle features a richly finished wood stock, complementing the color case hardened receiver.

• Classic Feel and Ergonomics: There's an undeniable warmth and natural feel to a genuine wood stock that synthetic materials simply cannot replicate. The stock is shaped for comfortable handling and shouldering, providing a solid platform for accurate shooting.
• Durability and Maintenance: High-quality wood stocks, when properly maintained, can last for generations, developing a unique patina over time that tells its own story. Regular oiling and protection from extreme conditions ensure its longevity.

Smooth and Reliable Lever Action Mechanism

The very essence of the 1873 rifle lies in its lever action. Cimarron meticulously replicates this mechanism for supreme functionality.

• Rapid Cycling: The toggle-link action, while complex, is renowned for its smooth and relatively fast cycling, allowing for quick follow-up shots – a crucial advantage in competitive scenarios.
• Robust Design: This design is tried and true, proven over a century of use in various conditions, ensuring consistent feeding and extraction.

Generous 13+1 Capacity

With a capacity of 13 rounds in the tubular magazine plus one in the chamber, the Cimarron 1873 Sporting Rifle offers significant firepower.

• Competitive Edge: For cowboy action shooters, this generous capacity means fewer reloads during a stage, saving precious seconds and contributing to higher scores.
• Field Versatility: For hunting or general range use, it provides ample ammunition for sustained shooting without constant interruptions for reloading.

Right-Hand Configuration

This specific model is designed for right-handed shooters, ensuring optimal ergonomics and ease of use for the majority of users. The lever, sights, and overall balance are optimized for natural handling by a right-handed individual.

Who Benefits from Owning the Cimarron 1873 Sporting Rifle?

The Cimarron CA282 is a versatile firearm that appeals to a diverse range of enthusiasts.

The Dedicated Cowboy Action Shooter (SASS Competitor)

This rifle is a prime candidate for participants in Single Action Shooting Society (SASS) and similar competitive events.

• Authenticity for Rules: Its historical accuracy and chambering in .45 Colt align perfectly with the "Spirit of the Game" and specific equipment rules often found in SASS.
• Performance Advantage: The smooth action, accurate barrel, and generous capacity provide a competitive edge, helping shooters achieve faster times and better scores. When searching for "best rifle for SASS," this model frequently appears at the top.

The Discerning Historical Firearm Collector

For collectors who appreciate firearms with deep historical roots, the Cimarron CA282 is a must-have.

• Investment in History: It represents a tangible link to America's frontier past, meticulously recreated to honor the original "Gun that Won the West."
• Display and Education: Its beauty and historical significance make it an excellent display piece, sparking conversations about the era it represents.

The Ethical and Traditional Hunter

While often associated with target shooting, the .45 Colt in a lever-action rifle is a capable hunting tool.

• Medium Game: It's well-suited for ethical hunting of deer, hogs, and similar medium-sized game at appropriate ranges, typically within 100-150 yards depending on ammunition choice and shooter skill.
• Classic Hunting Experience: For those who prefer a traditional hunting experience, relying on skill and a classic rifle, the 1873 Sporting Rifle offers immense satisfaction. If you're looking for "lever action rifle for deer hunting," consider the .45 Colt variant for its effectiveness.

Re-enactors and Old West Enthusiasts

Immerse yourself fully in historical re-enactments.

• Period Correctness: The Cimarron 1873 is historically correct, making it an essential prop for re-enactments, living history demonstrations, or simply adding an authentic touch to an Old West collection.
• Functional Authenticity: Beyond looks, its functional design allows for safe and authentic demonstrations of period firearm handling.

Recreational Shooters and Enthusiasts

Even for casual trips to the range, the Cimarron 1873 offers an incredibly enjoyable shooting experience.

• Fun and Engaging: The smooth lever action and satisfying recoil of the .45 Colt make every shot a pleasure.
• Skill Development: Practicing with a classic lever-action rifle can hone fundamental shooting skills in a unique and rewarding way.

Maintaining Your Cimarron 1873 Sporting Rifle

To ensure your Cimarron 1873 Sporting Rifle remains a reliable performer and a cherished heirloom for generations, proper maintenance is key. Many users ask, "How do I clean a lever-action rifle?" or "What's the best way to store a historical firearm?" Here are essential tips:

• Regular Cleaning: After every shooting session, especially if using lead bullets or black powder substitutes (though not recommended for prolonged use without immediate cleaning due to corrosive nature), a thorough cleaning is vital.
  • Barrel Cleaning: Use a bore brush, patches, and appropriate bore solvent to remove powder residue and lead fouling.
  • Action Cleaning: Pay attention to the lever action mechanism. Use a nylon brush and solvent to remove grime from the moving parts. Avoid excessive lubrication that can attract dirt.
• Lubrication: Lightly oil moving parts with a quality gun oil designed for firearms. Less is often more; too much oil can attract dust and grime.
• Storage: Store your rifle in a clean, dry environment, preferably in a climate-controlled gun safe. Avoid storing it in cases that can trap moisture, which can lead to rust, especially on the color case hardened finish. A silicone-treated gun sock can offer additional protection.
• Handling: Always handle your rifle with clean hands to prevent skin oils from causing corrosion, particularly on blued or case hardened surfaces.

The Legacy: Cimarron and the 1873 Rifle

The Cimarron Firearms Company has built its reputation on a steadfast commitment to reproducing the classic firearms of the American frontier with unparalleled historical accuracy. While the original 1873 rifle, affectionately known as "The Gun that Won the West," was a product of Winchester, Cimarron works with expert Italian manufacturers to bring these beloved designs back to life. Their dedication ensures that every Cimarron 1873 Sporting Rifle not only looks authentic but also functions with the reliability and precision expected by today's demanding shooters. When you choose a Cimarron firearm, you're investing in a piece of living history, crafted to the highest standards.

Where to Acquire This Masterpiece

The Cimarron CA282 1873 Sporting Rifle in .45 Colt is a premium firearm designed for those who appreciate history, quality, and performance. For those seeking to add this iconic lever-action rifle to their collection, it is available through reputable firearms retailers like DEGuns. Visit deguns.com to explore current availability and bring the legend of the Old West into your own hands.

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Cimarron 1873 Sporting Rifle Specifications

Feature	Detail
Model	Cimarron CA282 1873 Sporting Rifle
Caliber	.45 Colt (LC)
Capacity	13+1 Rounds
Barrel Length	24 Inches
Barrel Type	Octagonal
Finish	Color Case Hardened Receiver
Stock Material	Wood
Hand Orientation	Right Hand
UPC	844237007796