Taylors & Company 1873 Lever Action Rifle: A Masterpiece for Authentic Shooting Experiences

For those who cherish the spirit of the Old West, seek a competitive edge in Cowboy Action Shooting, or simply desire a beautifully crafted and reliable firearm for recreational shooting or light hunting, the Taylors & Company 1873 lever action rifle stands as an unparalleled choice. This isn't just a firearm; it's a meticulously replicated piece of history, designed to deliver performance and evoke the essence of an iconic era. If you’ve ever asked, "What's the best rifle for historical reenactment?" or "Where can I find a dependable lever-action for cowboy competitions?" – then you've found your answer in the Taylors & Company 1873 with its distinct features and robust build.

Unveiling the Heart of the Old West: Key Features and Why They Matter

The Taylors & Company 1873, chambered in the classic .45 Colt (LC), is more than just its specifications. Each element of its design contributes to its legacy and utility, making it a highly sought-after rifle for a variety of enthusiasts.

Chambered in .45 Colt (LC): The Enduring Caliber
Why is the .45 Colt still relevant today, particularly in a rifle like the Taylors & Company 1873? This legendary cartridge offers a unique blend of historical authenticity, manageable recoil, and surprising versatility. Originally designed for the Colt Single Action Army revolver, its adoption in lever-action rifles, like the 1873, created a powerful and convenient pairing for frontiersmen. For competitive shooters in events like Cowboy Action Shooting (CAS), the .45 Colt provides excellent knockdown power on steel targets while remaining enjoyable to shoot for extended periods. It's also a fantastic caliber for handloaders, allowing for a wide range of custom loads tailored for anything from light target practice to more robust hunting applications for small to medium game, such as deer or hogs, within appropriate ranges. Its mild pressure ensures longevity for the rifle's action, contributing to its enduring reliability.

The Iconic 1873 Lever Action: Smoothness Redefined
The "King of the Repeater Rifles," the Winchester Model 1873, is legendary for its smooth and rapid lever-action mechanism. Taylors & Company faithfully reproduces this beloved action, ensuring that every cycle is fluid and reliable. This design is not only historically accurate but also incredibly practical. Shooters praise the effortless throw of the lever, which contributes to faster follow-up shots and an overall more engaging shooting experience. For competitors, a smooth action translates directly into faster stage times. For recreational shooters, it means less fatigue and more enjoyment during a long day at the range. The robustness of the 1873's toggle-link action, when properly maintained, guarantees a lifetime of reliable performance, making it a truly timeless investment.

20-Inch Octagon Barrel: Precision Meets Classic Aesthetics
The 20-inch octagon barrel is a defining feature of this particular Taylors & Company 1873 model.

• Enhanced Accuracy: The increased rigidity of an octagon barrel over a round barrel can contribute to slightly better accuracy, as it resists flexing during firing. This stability helps maintain a consistent point of impact.
• Classic Appearance: Aesthetically, the octagon barrel is a hallmark of late 19th-century firearms, instantly evoking a sense of heritage and craftsmanship. It complements the rifle's overall period-correct design.
• Balance and Handling: A 20-inch barrel strikes an excellent balance between maneuverability and sight radius. It's long enough to provide good ballistic performance from the .45 Colt cartridge and a clear sight picture, yet short enough to handle comfortably in brush, in a vehicle, or during rapid transitions in a shooting competition. This length also makes it an ideal companion for a revolver in the same caliber, offering similar ballistics and ammunition commonality.

Walnut Pistol Grip Stock: Ergonomics and Elegance Combined
The choice of an A-grade walnut pistol grip stock elevates both the rifle's appearance and its functional ergonomics.

• Superior Aesthetics: Walnut has long been prized for its beautiful grain patterns and durability, making each stock unique. The rich, natural hues of the wood perfectly complement the color case hardened receiver, creating a truly stunning firearm.
• Improved Ergonomics: The pistol grip configuration offers a more secure and comfortable handhold compared to a straight-grip stock, especially during sustained shooting sessions or when needing to quickly shoulder the rifle. This enhanced grip allows for better control and reduces shooter fatigue, leading to more precise and consistent shooting. It provides a natural wrist angle that many shooters find more intuitive.
• Durability: Walnut is a robust wood, capable of withstanding the rigors of regular use while developing a beautiful patina over time, further enhancing the rifle's character.

Color Case Hardened Receiver: A Fusion of Art and Protection
The color case hardened finish on the receiver is perhaps the most visually striking feature of the Taylors & Company 1873. This traditional bluing process not only provides a unique and vibrant array of blues, purples, and browns but also offers excellent surface hardness and corrosion resistance. Each receiver treated with this method will have a unique pattern, making every rifle a one-of-a-kind work of art. Beyond its beauty, color case hardening is a testament to historical manufacturing techniques and adds a layer of authenticity that modern finishes simply cannot replicate. It speaks to the rifle's craftsmanship and its dedication to historical fidelity.

10+1 Round Capacity: Ready for Any Challenge
With a generous capacity of 10 rounds in the tubular magazine plus one in the chamber, the Taylors & Company 1873 ensures you have ample firepower for various applications. For Cowboy Action Shooting, this capacity is often more than sufficient for entire stages without needing a reload, giving competitors an advantage. For recreational shooting, it means more time shooting and less time reloading. For hunting or general utility, it provides peace of mind that you have enough rounds on hand for multiple engagements or emergencies.

Who Is This Rifle For? Real-World Applications and User Questions Answered

The Taylors & Company 1873 is a versatile firearm that appeals to a diverse group of shooters and enthusiasts.

1. The Cowboy Action Shooter (CAS/SASS Competitor):

• Problem Solved: Finding a historically accurate, supremely reliable, and smooth-action rifle that meets SASS (Single Action Shooting Society) requirements and gives a competitive edge.
• Why the 1873 excels: Its faithful reproduction of the original Winchester 1873, coupled with modern manufacturing tolerances, results in an incredibly slick action right out of the box. The .45 Colt chambering is a staple in CAS, known for its consistent performance on steel targets and minimal recoil. The 10+1 capacity allows shooters to tackle most stages without a reload, saving precious seconds. The pistol grip stock offers a comfortable and stable hold for rapid fire.
• Questions answered: "What is the best lever action rifle for Cowboy Action Shooting?" "How can I improve my speed in SASS?" "Which rifle offers the most authentic feel for historical competitions?"

2. The Historical Firearms Enthusiast & Collector:

• Problem Solved: Acquiring a high-quality, authentic replica of an iconic Old West firearm that is also fully functional and shootable.
• Why the 1873 excels: Taylors & Company is renowned for its commitment to historical accuracy, often collaborating with Italian manufacturer Uberti, who are masters of classic firearm reproductions. The color case hardened receiver, octagon barrel, and A-grade walnut stock all contribute to a period-correct appearance. This rifle is not just a display piece; it's a living piece of history that can be enjoyed at the range.
• Questions answered: "Where can I buy a historically accurate replica of a Winchester 1873?" "What firearms represent the true spirit of the American West?" "Are modern reproductions as reliable as the originals?"

3. The Recreational Target Shooter & Range Enthusiast:

• Problem Solved: Seeking an enjoyable, unique, and reliable rifle for casual plinking, target practice, or simply experiencing the joy of shooting a classic lever action.
• Why the 1873 excels: The smooth action and manageable recoil of the .45 Colt make it a pleasure to shoot for extended periods. The 20-inch octagon barrel provides good accuracy for ringing steel or punching paper targets at moderate distances. It’s an attention-grabber at the range, sparking conversations and drawing admiration for its classic beauty.
• Questions answered: "What is a fun and unique rifle for target shooting?" "Is the .45 Colt an expensive caliber to shoot recreationally?" (often less so if handloaded).

4. The Small to Medium Game Hunter:

• Problem Solved: Finding a lightweight, powerful, and maneuverable rifle suitable for ethical hunting of game like deer, hogs, or coyotes in appropriate environments.
• Why the 1873 excels: While traditionally thought of as a pistol cartridge, the .45 Colt gains significant velocity and energy when fired from a rifle-length barrel, making it effective for medium game out to 75-100 yards with proper ammunition selection. Its compact size and quick-handling nature are assets in dense brush or when stalking.
• Questions answered: "Can you hunt deer with a .45 Colt lever action?" "What's a good brush gun for hunting?" "What rifle pairs well with a .45 Colt revolver for hunting?"

The Taylors & Company Difference: A Mark of Quality

When investing in a replica firearm, the reputation of the manufacturer is paramount. Taylors & Company has established itself as a leading provider of high-quality, historically accurate reproductions. Their commitment to excellence is evident in every detail of the 1873 rifle. They ensure that their firearms not only look the part but also function flawlessly, offering reliability and durability that stands the test of time. This dedication to quality means that when you purchase a Taylors & Company 1873, you're acquiring a rifle that is built to be shot, enjoyed, and passed down through generations. They understand the nuances that make a historical reproduction truly exceptional, from the precise timing of the action to the authentic application of finishes.

Owning a Legend: Why the Taylors & Company 1873 is an Investment

This rifle is more than just a tool; it's a link to America's frontier past. It embodies the ingenuity and craftsmanship of a bygone era, brought to life with modern precision. Its robust construction ensures long-term durability, making it a reliable companion for years of shooting adventures. The meticulous attention to detail, from the vibrant case hardening to the rich walnut, means this rifle will not only perform beautifully but also be a source of pride and admiration.

Whether you're looking to dominate the next Cowboy Action Shooting match, add a centerpiece to your collection of historical firearms, or simply enjoy the timeless pleasure of shooting a classic lever-action rifle, the Taylors & Company 1873 in .45 Colt (LC) is an outstanding choice. Its blend of historical authenticity, reliable performance, and stunning aesthetics makes it a truly special firearm. Experience the legendary smooth action and classic feel that defined an era.

Specifications and Details

Feature	Description
Model	Taylors & Company 1873
Caliber	.45 Colt (LC)
Capacity	10+1 Rounds
Barrel Length	20 Inches
Barrel Type	Octagon Profile
Stock	Walnut, Pistol Grip
Receiver Finish	Color Case Hardened
Hand Orientation	Right Hand
UPC	839665002047

This exceptional rifle, and many other Taylors & Company firearms, are available through trusted retailers like DEGuns.com. When you’re ready to acquire a piece of history that performs as beautifully as it looks, explore the selection at DEGuns.