The Enduring Legacy: Taylors & Company 1873 Comanchero .357 Mag Lever-Action Rifle

For firearm enthusiasts, collectors, and competitive shooters seeking a blend of historical authenticity, robust performance, and classic American design, the Taylors & Company 1873 Comanchero stands as a testament to an era of legendary firearms. This meticulously crafted lever-action rifle, chambered in the versatile .357 Magnum, offers more than just a shooting experience; it provides a tangible connection to the Old West, reimagined for the modern era.

Who is the Taylors & Company 1873 Comanchero Designed For?

This rifle is a prime choice for a diverse range of individuals, each drawn to its unique attributes and capabilities.

The Cowboy Action Shooter & SASS Competitor

Are you deeply involved in the world of Cowboy Action Shooting (CAS) or a member of organizations like SASS (Single Action Shooting Society)? The Taylors & Company 1873 Comanchero is an exceptional companion for your competitive pursuits. The original 1873 Winchester rifle is the quintessential lever-action for this sport, and Taylors & Company's reproduction precisely captures its spirit and functionality. Its smooth action, reliable feeding, and classic aesthetic make it a natural fit for scenarios demanding rapid, fluid shooting while maintaining historical accuracy. Many competitors ask, "What is the best lever-action rifle for SASS?" The 1873 Comanchero, with its period-correct design and modern manufacturing precision, consistently appears at the top of such recommendations. Its fixed pistol grip stock enhances control for quick transitions and follow-up shots, crucial in competitive stages.

The Historical Firearm Enthusiast & Collector

Do you appreciate the craftsmanship and historical significance of firearms that shaped American history? The 1873 Comanchero is more than just a rifle; it's a piece of living history. It appeals to those who seek to own, understand, and experience the firearms that tamed the frontier. The color case hardened receiver is not merely decorative; it's a historical finishing technique that adds an an authentic, unique patina to each rifle, making every Comanchero a singular work of art. This rifle answers the implicit question, "How can I own a piece of Old West history with modern reliability?"

The Hunter Seeking a Classic Touch

While primarily a range and competition firearm, the .357 Magnum chambering, coupled with the 18-inch barrel, makes the 1873 Comanchero a capable choice for small to medium game hunting within appropriate ranges. For those who enjoy the challenge and aesthetic of hunting with traditional firearms, this rifle offers a unique and satisfying experience. It's a fantastic option for someone asking, "What classic rifle can I use for brush hunting or varmint control?" The maneuverability of the 18-inch barrel and the proven effectiveness of the .357 Magnum cartridge make it a viable, enjoyable option for ethical hunting in specific conditions.

The Range Shooter & Plinker

If you simply love spending time at the range, enjoying the satisfying mechanics of a lever-action rifle, the 1873 Comanchero offers endless enjoyment. Its smooth cycling action, manageable recoil (especially with .38 Special loads), and classic feel provide a deeply gratifying shooting experience. It's an excellent choice for anyone wondering, "What's a fun, reliable rifle for target shooting that also has a rich history?" The 10+1 round capacity ensures ample shooting before reloading, maximizing your range time enjoyment.

Why Choose the Taylors & Company 1873 Comanchero? Unpacking Its Core Advantages

When considering a new firearm, especially one steeped in historical design, understanding its unique selling points is key. The 1873 Comanchero differentiates itself through a combination of authenticity, modern performance, and meticulous construction.

Authenticity and Heritage: The Legendary 1873 Design

The Winchester Model 1873 earned its moniker as "The Gun That Won the West" for a reason. Its innovative lever-action design revolutionized carbine and rifle technology, becoming a ubiquitous tool for pioneers, lawmen, and outlaws alike. Taylors & Company's 1873 Comanchero faithfully reproduces this iconic design, from the distinct side loading gate to the elegant profile of the receiver. This commitment to historical accuracy is paramount for enthusiasts who value true representations of classic firearms. It addresses the desire to experience a genuine piece of firearm evolution.

The Power and Versatility of .357 Magnum

Chambered in .357 Magnum, this rifle offers exceptional versatility. It can reliably fire both powerful .357 Magnum loads and the more affordable, lower-recoil .38 Special ammunition. This dual-caliber capability is a significant advantage for shooters. For instance, you might use .38 Special for extended practice sessions or new shooters, then transition to .357 Magnum for hunting or competitive stages requiring more power. This adaptability answers the common question, "What rifle caliber offers both power and economic training options?"

Distinctive Aesthetics: The Color Case Hardened Finish

The color case hardened finish applied to the receiver is a hallmark of premium, historically accurate firearms. This traditional process imbues the metal with a unique, iridescent swirl of blues, purples, and browns, making each rifle visually distinct. Beyond its beauty, case hardening provides a durable, hard surface that resists wear and corrosion. It's a feature that instantly elevates the rifle's appearance and signals a commitment to traditional manufacturing techniques. This answers the query, "What firearm finish offers both beauty and durability?"

Superior Handling: Walnut Fixed Pistol Grip Stock

The beautiful walnut stock, with its fixed pistol grip, offers both aesthetic appeal and enhanced ergonomics. Walnut is a traditional and highly regarded wood for firearm stocks due to its strength, durability, and classic grain patterns. The pistol grip design provides a more comfortable and secure hold, allowing for better control and faster follow-up shots, particularly beneficial in dynamic shooting scenarios like Cowboy Action Shooting. This feature contributes to a more intuitive and stable shooting experience, addressing the need for comfortable and controlled handling.

Reliability and Craftsmanship: Taylors & Company's Legacy

Taylors & Company is renowned for importing high-quality reproductions of historical firearms, manufactured by trusted partners who uphold exacting standards. Their commitment ensures that the 1873 Comanchero isn't just a look-alike but a functionally reliable and durable rifle built for sustained use. When you invest in a Taylors & Company firearm, you're investing in a reputation for dependability and attention to detail. This addresses the critical question, "Are Taylors & Company firearms reliable and well-made?"

Key Features of the Taylors & Company 1873 Comanchero in Detail

Let's break down the specific features that define this magnificent rifle and contribute to its exceptional performance.

Caliber: .357 Magnum / .38 Special Compatibility

The ability to safely and reliably chamber and fire both .357 Magnum and .38 Special cartridges is a standout feature. This makes the rifle incredibly versatile for various shooting activities.

• .357 Magnum: Offers potent ballistics, suitable for hunting smaller game, self-defense (where legal and appropriate for a rifle), and longer-range target shooting. Its energy transfer is significant, making it effective for numerous applications.
• .38 Special: Provides a milder recoil, making it ideal for extended range sessions, training new shooters, or competitive events where high volume shooting is common. It's also typically more affordable, allowing for more practice.

This dual-caliber nature maximizes the rifle's utility and economic appeal.

Capacity: 10+1 Rounds

With a substantial magazine capacity of 10 rounds in the tubular magazine plus one in the chamber, the 1873 Comanchero allows for extended shooting sessions without frequent reloads. This is particularly advantageous in competitive shooting, where stage requirements often involve numerous targets, or simply for recreational plinking where you want to maximize trigger time between breaks. This answers the common user query, "What is the magazine capacity of the Taylors & Company 1873 Comanchero?"

Barrel Length: 18-inch Precision

The 18-inch barrel strikes an excellent balance between ballistic performance and maneuverability.

• Ballistic Performance: An 18-inch barrel allows the .357 Magnum cartridge to develop a higher muzzle velocity and greater energy compared to a shorter handgun barrel, enhancing accuracy and terminal performance.
• Maneuverability: This length keeps the rifle compact and easy to handle in various environments, including dense brush during hunting, or quickly transitioning between targets in competition. It's also highly portable, making it convenient for transport to and from the range. For those asking, "Is an 18-inch barrel good for a lever-action rifle?", the answer is a resounding yes, offering a versatile sweet spot.

Stock: Walnut Fixed Pistol Grip

The use of genuine walnut for the stock not only provides a beautiful, traditional appearance but also ensures durability and a comfortable grip. The fixed pistol grip design, as opposed to a straight grip, offers several ergonomic benefits:

• Enhanced Control: The defined grip area allows for a firmer, more natural hold, contributing to better recoil management and stability.
• Faster Cycling: A secure grip aids in quicker and smoother cycling of the lever action, which is vital in fast-paced shooting disciplines.
• Classic Aesthetic: Walnut is the quintessential material for historical firearm stocks, adding to the rifle's authentic appeal.

Receiver Finish: Color Case Hardened

As mentioned, the color case hardened finish is a key feature. Each receiver undergoes a unique heat-treating process that produces a mottled, vibrant pattern of blues, purples, and straw colors. This finish is not merely aesthetic; it hardens the surface of the steel, increasing its resistance to wear and tear. It's a testament to traditional gun-making artistry and makes each 1873 Comanchero a truly individual piece.

Right Hand Configuration

The rifle is designed for right-handed shooters, with the loading gate and lever throw optimized for right-hand operation, ensuring intuitive and efficient handling for the majority of shooters.

Real-World Applications and Performance Insights

The Taylors & Company 1873 Comanchero excels in several practical applications, delivering reliable performance that meets the demands of discerning shooters.

Performance in Cowboy Action Shooting

In CAS, a smooth and reliable action is paramount. The 1873 Comanchero's finely tuned lever mechanism allows for rapid cycling of rounds, minimizing time between shots. The ability to load both .357 Magnum and .38 Special provides flexibility for different stage requirements or personal preference for recoil management. Shooters consistently report the 1873 Comanchero as a top-tier choice for its authenticity and competitive edge, answering the critical question: "How does the Taylors & Company 1873 Comanchero perform in Cowboy Action Shooting?"

Ideal for Small Game Hunting

For ethical small game hunting (such as varmints, rabbits, or even deer within sensible ranges for .357 Mag), the 1873 Comanchero proves highly effective. The .357 Magnum cartridge, especially when fired from an 18-inch rifle barrel, achieves velocities that offer sufficient energy for clean kills. Its compact size makes it suitable for navigating dense brush or stalking in varied terrain.

A Range Day Favorite

Beyond its specific applications, the 1873 Comanchero is simply a joy to shoot at the range. The satisfying clack-clack of the lever action, the moderate recoil, and the classic sights make for an engaging and nostalgic experience. It's a conversation starter and a testament to enduring firearm design. It's perfect for anyone asking, "What is a fun and reliable rifle for casual target shooting?"

Maintenance and Care Tips

To ensure your Taylors & Company 1873 Comanchero continues to perform flawlessly and retains its beautiful finish, regular maintenance is essential.

• Cleaning: After each shooting session, clean the bore, chamber, and action to remove powder residue and fouling. Pay particular attention to the feed ramps and loading gate area.
• Lubrication: Apply a light coat of gun oil to all moving parts, especially the lever mechanism and internal components, to ensure smooth operation.
• Stock Care: The walnut stock benefits from occasional treatment with a quality wood conditioner or stock oil to preserve its finish and prevent drying out.
• Finish Preservation: For the color case hardened receiver, avoid harsh solvents that could damage the finish. A light wipe with an oiled cloth is usually sufficient.

Why Choose Taylors & Company?

Taylors & Company has established itself as a leading importer of historical firearm reproductions, earning a reputation for quality, authenticity, and excellent customer service. Their commitment to working with reputable manufacturers ensures that each firearm they offer meets stringent standards of craftsmanship and reliability. When you choose a Taylors & Company product, you're choosing a brand trusted by enthusiasts and competitors worldwide for delivering firearms that are both beautiful and highly functional. They stand behind their products, providing confidence in your investment.

Availability

The Taylors & Company 1873 Comanchero .357 Mag 10+1 18" Walnut Fixed Pistol Grip Stock Color Case Hardened Right Hand rifle, model 2025COM, and other fine firearms from Taylors & Company are available through trusted retailers such as DEGuns.com. DEGuns is committed to providing a wide selection of firearms and accessories, ensuring you can find the perfect model to meet your needs, whether for competition, collection, or recreational shooting.

Experience the Classic American Lever-Action

The Taylors & Company 1873 Comanchero offers an unparalleled opportunity to own and experience a truly iconic American firearm. Its blend of historical accuracy, modern performance, versatile caliber, and stunning aesthetics makes it a standout choice. Whether you're an avid Cowboy Action Shooter, a dedicated collector, a discerning hunter, or simply a fan of classic firearms, the 1873 Comanchero delivers an exceptional and deeply satisfying shooting experience. It's more than just a rifle; it's a piece of history you can hold, shoot, and cherish for generations.

Product Specifications: Taylors & Company 1873 Comanchero

Feature	Specification
Model Number	2025COM
Manufacturer	Taylors & Company
Model	1873 Comanchero
Caliber	.357 Magnum / .38 Special
Capacity	10+1 Rounds
Barrel Length	18 Inches
Stock	Walnut, Fixed Pistol Grip
Receiver Finish	Color Case Hardened
Hand	Right Hand
Action Type	Lever Action
Sights	Fixed (typically Blade Front, Adjustable Rear Buckhorn or similar)
Overall Length	Varies slightly, typically around 37-38 inches
Weight	Varies slightly, typically around 7 lbs
Availability	Exclusively available through authorized dealers like DEGuns.com