Winchester 1873 32 WCF

Updated September 9, 2026

Winchester Model 1873 Lever-Action Rifle — .32 W.C.F. — Antique Third Model Offered here is a genuine antique Winchester Model 1873 lever-action rifle, chambered in .32 W.C.F. (.32-20 Winchester), one of the most collectible and historically significant repeating rifles of the American West. This example carries the iconic "Winchester's Repeating Arms, New Haven, Conn., U.S.A." barrel address along with the King's Improvement patent dates of March 29, 1866 and October 16, 1860, confirming its authenticity as an original Winchester product of the era. Key Features & Markings Model designation clearly stamped on the upper tang: "MODEL 1873" with decorative floral engraving flourishes Caliber markings: ".32 W.C.F." stamped on the barrel, with a matching "32 CAL" engraved on the brass cartridge carrier/forend cap plate Serial number with "R" suffix, stamped on the lower tang — a number consistent with Winchester's mid-production run, useful for those wishing to research an exact manufacture date via Winchester factory records Barrel: Round barrel configuration with dovetailed front sight blade and a sporting rear leaf sight Receiver: Iconic case-colored/color-hardened steel frame showing beautiful silvery-gray patina with the original loading gate and lever visible Stock & Forend: Straight-grain walnut buttstock with straight (shotgun-style) buttplate, and a walnut forend secured by a nickel/steel end cap Action: Classic Winchester toggle-link lever action, smooth operating lever and hammer Condition This rifle displays an attractive, honest antique patina consistent with age and prior use. The metal surfaces show a mix of thinning original blue finish and gray/silver patina typical of a well-used working rifle from the frontier era, while the case-hardened receiver retains pleasing traces of its original color. The walnut stock and forend show natural wear, handling marks, and a rich, deepened patina — free of major cracks or repairs based on visual inspection. Mechanically, the lever, hammer, and loading gate all appear intact and original to the piece. Why This Piece Matters The Winchester Model 1873 earned the nickname "The Gun That Won the West" and remains one of the most sought-after lever-action rifles among firearms historians and collectors. Produced from 1873 through the early 1920s, the Model 1873 was prized by settlers, lawmen, outlaws, and cowboys alike for its reliability and its use of interchangeable pistol-caliber cartridges — a rifle in .32 W.C.F. like this one could share ammunition with a companion revolver of the same chambering, a major advantage on the frontier. This example represents a wonderful opportunity for: Winchester and lever-action rifle collectors Old West and cowboy-era firearms enthusiasts Antique gun investors seeking a documented, collectible piece Museum or historical display collections

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