Garate Anitua y Cia "El Tigre" - Winchester 1892 Copy

Published on June 5, 2016
Duration: 7:30

This review of the Garate Anitua y Cia 'El Tigre' rifle, a Spanish copy of the Winchester 1892, highlights its surprisingly good quality and historical significance. The rifle's design was influenced by Spanish patent laws, allowing local production of patented designs. It was chambered in .44-40 Winchester, offering ammunition compatibility with popular pistols of the era, and saw use with Spanish law enforcement and militias, as well as in Hollywood productions.

Quick Summary

The Garate Anitua y Cia 'El Tigre' is a Spanish-made lever-action rifle, a high-quality copy of the Winchester 1892. Influenced by Spanish patent laws, it was produced from 1919 until the Spanish Civil War and chambered in .44-40 Winchester (.44 Largo), offering excellent value and historical interest.

Chapters

  1. 00:06Introduction to El Tigre Rifle
  2. 00:27Spanish Patent Law History
  3. 01:25Garate Anitua's Patenting of Winchester
  4. 02:22El Tigre Popularity and Uses
  5. 03:35Caliber and Ammunition Compatibility
  6. 04:03Quality and Manufacturing Standards
  7. 04:32Barrel and Receiver Markings
  8. 05:26Trademark and Rifle Features
  9. 05:59Unique Sight Features
  10. 06:45Conclusion and Recommendation

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Garate Anitua y Cia 'El Tigre' rifle?

The 'El Tigre' is a lever-action rifle manufactured in Spain by Garate Anitua y Cia. It is a direct and high-quality copy of the iconic Winchester 1892 rifle, produced during a period influenced by Spanish patent laws.

Why were Spanish companies able to copy Winchester designs?

Spanish patent law in the early 1900s protected a patent only if the item was produced in Spain. This loophole allowed companies like Garate Anitua y Cia to legally produce copies of designs like the Winchester 1892, as Winchester did not have local production there.

What caliber is the El Tigre rifle chambered in?

All El Tigre rifles were chambered for the .44-40 Winchester cartridge. In Spain, this caliber was often marked as .44 Largo (L), which was convenient for users who also owned .44-40 pistols.

How does the El Tigre's quality compare to a Winchester 1892?

The El Tigre is considered a surprisingly good quality firearm, mechanically identical to the Winchester 1892. While not always reaching the absolute peak standard of Winchester, it is a reliable and well-made rifle, far superior to cheap 'junk guns'.

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