Taylors & Company 1873 Comanchero Lever-Action Rifle: An Enduring Legacy for Modern Shooters

For enthusiasts seeking to own a piece of the American West, or competitive shooters demanding precision and reliability in the fast-paced arena of Cowboy Action Shooting, the Taylors & Company 1873 Comanchero Lever-Action Rifle in .45 Colt (LC) stands as a quintessential choice. This isn't just a firearm; it's a meticulously crafted homage to an iconic era, engineered for peak performance in contemporary applications. If you've ever asked, "What's the best lever-action rifle for competitive shooting?" or "Where can I find a historically accurate yet high-capacity rifle for my collection?", the Taylors & Company Comanchero offers compelling answers. Available exclusively at DEGuns, this rifle embodies a blend of classic aesthetics, robust construction, and practical functionality, setting a new standard for modern reproductions of a timeless design.

The Heart of the Old West: Unpacking the 1873 Action

At the core of the Taylors & Company Comanchero is the legendary 1873 Winchester-style lever-action mechanism. Often hailed as "The Gun That Won the West," the original 1873 action revolutionized firearm design with its smooth, reliable toggle-link system. Taylors & Company meticulously reproduces this revered action, ensuring that every cycle is crisp, consistent, and remarkably intuitive. This faithful adherence to the original design provides several key advantages for today's user:

• Exceptional Smoothness: The toggle-link action is renowned for its incredibly fluid and rapid cycling. This is crucial for disciplines like Cowboy Action Shooting, where speed and follow-up shots are paramount. Unlike many modern actions, the 1873's design minimizes friction, allowing for effortless lever manipulation even under pressure.
• Reliable Ejection: The robust ejection system of the 1873 ensures spent casings are reliably cleared, reducing the likelihood of stovepipes or malfunctions during rapid firing.
• Authentic Feel: For collectors and historical reenactors, the 1873 action delivers an unparalleled sense of authenticity. Operating this rifle connects the shooter directly to the pioneering spirit of the 19th century, making every range session a journey through history.

When considering a lever-action rifle, questions often arise about the ease of use and maintenance. The Taylors & Company 1873 Comanchero is designed with both in mind, offering a mechanism that, while historically accurate, is also robust enough for modern ammunition and shooting practices.

Key Features and Design Excellence

The Taylors & Company 1873 Comanchero is distinguished by a suite of features that enhance both its performance and aesthetic appeal:

• Caliber: Chambered in .45 Colt (LC), this rifle utilizes a cartridge synonymous with the American West. The .45 Colt is known for its versatility, offering sufficient power for hunting medium game while providing manageable recoil for extended shooting sessions and competitive events. It's a popular choice for those looking for a large-bore, classic cartridge experience.
• Capacity: With a generous 10+1 round capacity, the Comanchero stands out. This high capacity significantly reduces reloading frequency during competitions or casual plinking, allowing shooters to focus more on their technique and less on magazine changes. For hunters, it provides ample follow-up shot capability if needed.
• Barrel Length: The 20-inch barrel strikes an optimal balance between maneuverability and ballistic performance.
  • Portability: A shorter barrel makes the rifle easier to handle in tight spaces, such as inside a shooting bay or when navigating brush in the field.
  • Accuracy: Despite its relatively compact length, the 20-inch barrel provides excellent accuracy for the .45 Colt cartridge, ensuring consistent shot placement at typical lever-action ranges.
  • Muzzle Velocity: It allows for efficient powder burn, translating into respectable muzzle velocities for the caliber.
• Stock and Forend: Crafted from high-quality Walnut, the stock and forend exude classic elegance. Walnut is renowned for its durability, natural beauty, and comfortable feel. The rich grain of the wood provides a visual warmth that complements the rifle's historical design. The ergonomic design ensures a comfortable grip and natural point of aim, crucial for both rapid target acquisition and sustained accuracy.
• Finish: The receiver boasts a stunning Color Case Hardened finish. This traditional heat-treatment process not only creates a unique, mottled rainbow effect on the metal surfaces but also enhances the durability and corrosion resistance of the steel. Each rifle's case hardening pattern is unique, making every Taylors & Company Comanchero a one-of-a-kind masterpiece. This finish is a hallmark of quality and historical authenticity, greatly appreciated by collectors.
• Hand Orientation: This specific model is designed for Right Handed shooters, ensuring ergonomic comfort and optimal lever throw for right-handed operation.

These carefully considered features combine to create a rifle that is not only visually appealing but also exceptionally functional and reliable.

Who is the Taylors & Company Comanchero For? Ideal Use Cases

The versatility and design of the Taylors & Company 1873 Comanchero make it an excellent choice for a diverse range of individuals and activities.

• Cowboy Action Shooters (CAS): This is perhaps the primary audience. The 1873 action's speed, the 10+1 capacity, and the classic .45 Colt chambering are perfectly suited for the demands of CAS, where shooters engage multiple targets rapidly. The Comanchero helps competitors achieve faster stage times and higher scores due to its smooth operation and reliability. Many participants often ask, "What rifle will give me an edge in Cowboy Action Shooting?" The Comanchero is a top contender.
• Historical Firearm Collectors: For those passionate about the firearms that shaped American history, the Comanchero is an essential acquisition. Its faithful reproduction of the 1873 Winchester design, combined with authentic finishes like color case hardening, makes it a valuable addition to any collection focusing on the Old West era. It offers the beauty and feel of an antique without the fragility and scarcity of original pieces.
• Recreational Shooters: If you enjoy leisurely days at the range, appreciating the craftsmanship and history of classic firearms, the Comanchero provides an engaging shooting experience. The .45 Colt's manageable recoil and the rifle's smooth action make it a pleasure to shoot, ideal for plinking or honing marksmanship skills.
• Hunters: While often associated with target shooting, the .45 Colt in a rifle-length barrel is capable of taking medium-sized game like deer at appropriate ranges. Its compact size and quick follow-up shots make it a viable option for brush hunting or in areas where a classic, reliable rifle is preferred.
• Western Enthusiasts & Reenactors: For those who live and breathe the spirit of the Old West, whether through reenactments, themed events, or simply appreciating the aesthetic, the Comanchero serves as an authentic and functional piece of equipment. It perfectly complements period-correct attire and gear.

The Advantage of Color Case Hardening

Color case hardening is more than just a beautiful finish; it's a testament to traditional craftsmanship and a functional enhancement. This process involves heating the steel in a carbon-rich environment, then rapidly cooling it. The result is a hardened outer layer of steel, providing superior wear resistance and durability, while the core remains tougher and less brittle. The vibrant, unique patterns created during this process are a direct result of the specific materials and temperatures used, ensuring that no two color case hardened firearms are exactly alike. For users, this means:

• Enhanced Durability: The hardened surface resists scratches and minor abrasions better than standard blued finishes.
• Corrosion Resistance: The treatment offers a degree of protection against rust and environmental wear.
• Unrivaled Aesthetics: The swirling blues, purples, browns, and golds create a distinctive and attractive appearance that sets the Taylors & Company Comanchero apart. It truly elevates the rifle from a tool to a work of art.

Why Choose Taylors & Company?

Taylors & Company has established itself as a leading importer of high-quality, historically accurate firearms. Their commitment to excellence is evident in every detail of the 1873 Comanchero. When you choose a Taylors & Company firearm, you are investing in:

• Authenticity: Their products are renowned for their faithful reproduction of historical designs, appealing to purists and collectors alike.
• Quality Manufacturing: Taylors & Company partners with reputable manufacturers known for their precision engineering and use of high-grade materials. This ensures reliability and longevity.
• Performance: These firearms are not just display pieces; they are built to perform, offering the accuracy and reliability demanded by competitive shooters and discerning enthusiasts.
• Support: As an authorized dealer for Taylors & Company, DEGuns ensures you receive genuine products and expert support for your purchase.

Optimizing Your Shooting Experience with the .45 Colt (LC)

The .45 Colt cartridge, first introduced in 1873 for the Colt Single Action Army revolver, quickly became a staple of the American frontier. Its adoption in lever-action rifles, like the Winchester 1873, created a powerful and versatile combination.

• Ammunition Versatility: The .45 Colt (LC) is widely available, with a range of bullet types and loads suitable for various applications, from light cowboy loads for competition to heavier loads for hunting.
• Recoil Management: In a rifle platform, the recoil of the .45 Colt is surprisingly mild, allowing for comfortable, extended shooting sessions without fatigue. This is a significant advantage for new shooters or those who prefer less recoil.
• Reloading Potential: For handloaders, the .45 Colt offers excellent flexibility. Its straight-walled case design makes it easy to reload, allowing shooters to tailor ammunition to their specific needs, whether for precision target shooting or optimized hunting loads.

Caring for Your Taylors & Company 1873 Comanchero

Maintaining your rifle ensures its longevity, performance, and preserves its beautiful finish.

• Regular Cleaning: After each use, especially with black powder or lead bullet ammunition, a thorough cleaning of the bore, chamber, and action is crucial. Use appropriate bore solvent and gun oil.
• Protecting the Finish: The color case hardened finish, while durable, benefits from a light coat of rust preventative oil, especially in humid environments. Avoid harsh solvents that could strip the finish.
• Storage: Store your rifle in a humidity-controlled environment, ideally in a quality gun safe, to prevent rust and preserve the wood and metal.
• Professional Inspection: Periodically, consider having your rifle professionally inspected by a qualified gunsmith to ensure all mechanisms are functioning optimally.

Investing in a Taylors & Company 1873 Comanchero from DEGuns means acquiring a firearm built for reliability and enjoyment. It's a rifle that will serve you well for years, whether in competition, in the field, or as a cherished part of your collection. Its ability to flawlessly cycle the .45 Colt (LC) cartridge, combined with the proven 1873 action, makes it an outstanding performer. What are the essential accessories for a lever-action rifle? A good quality cleaning kit, appropriate ammunition, and a protective case are always recommended.

Why Purchase from DEGuns?

DEGuns is your trusted source for premium firearms, including the exceptional Taylors & Company 1873 Comanchero. When you choose DEGuns.com, you benefit from:

• Expert Knowledge: Our team possesses deep product knowledge to assist you in making informed decisions.
• Secure Shopping: A seamless and secure online purchasing experience.
• Dedicated Customer Service: We are committed to providing outstanding support before, during, and after your purchase.
• Exclusive Inventory: As a premier retailer, DEGuns often has access to exclusive models and the latest releases from top manufacturers like Taylors & Company.

The Taylors & Company 1873 Comanchero Lever-Action Rifle is more than just a firearm; it's a testament to enduring design, meticulous craftsmanship, and the spirit of the American frontier. Its combination of historical authenticity, modern performance features, and stunning aesthetics makes it an unparalleled choice for anyone looking to own a truly exceptional lever-action rifle. Whether your passion lies in competitive shooting, collecting, hunting, or simply appreciating the artistry of fine firearms, this rifle delivers on every front. Secure your piece of history, engineered for today’s demands, only at DEGuns.

Taylors & Company 1873 Comanchero Specifications

Feature	Detail
Model	1873 Comanchero
Manufacturer	Taylors & Company
Caliber	.45 Colt (LC)
Capacity	10+1 Rounds
Barrel Length	20 Inches
Stock Material	Walnut
Receiver Finish	Color Case Hardened
Hand Orientation	Right Hand
Model Number (UPC Link)	2044COM (UPC: 619835204403)