Model 1873 Winchester ~ The Gun that Won the West!

Published on January 28, 2021
Duration: 25:07

This video provides an in-depth look at the Winchester Model 1873 lever-action rifle, often dubbed 'The Gun That Won the West.' The presenter details its historical significance, mechanical operation including its toggle link action, and the calibers it was chambered in. It highlights the rifle's role in Winchester's transition to modern centerfire cartridges and contrasts it with later models like the 1894, while also touching on its portrayal in media and its limitations regarding modern cartridge pressures.

Quick Summary

The Winchester Model 1873, often called 'The Gun That Won the West,' was a pivotal rifle for Winchester, marking their entry into modern centerfire cartridges. It featured a toggle link action, limiting safe pressures to around 14,000 psi, and was chambered in popular calibers like 38-40 and 44-40.

Chapters

  1. 00:01Introduction & Channel Milestone
  2. 00:36Introducing the Model 1873 Winchester
  3. 00:54Condition and Mechanical Operation
  4. 01:14Ammunition Availability (38-40)
  5. 01:30Available Calibers: Centerfire and .22 LR
  6. 01:54Centerfire Cartridge Details
  7. 02:23The 38-40 Caliber Explained
  8. 03:00First Centerfire Winchester Rifle
  9. 03:16Improvements Over Previous Models (1866, Henry)
  10. 03:43Action: Toggle Link System
  11. 04:53Strength Limitations of the Toggle Link Action
  12. 05:14Cartridge Pressure Limitations (Class 1)
  13. 06:30Winchester's 'Gun That Won The West' Slogan
  14. 07:21Historical Context of Western Expansion
  15. 08:53The OK Corral and Wild West Endings
  16. 09:42Hollywood's Depiction of the Wild West
  17. 10:16Common Rifles in Western Movies (Model 1892)
  18. 10:46Comparison: Model 1894 vs. Model 1873 Action
  19. 11:41Movie Depiction: '1873' with Jimmy Stewart
  20. 12:22The 'One of a Thousand' Model 1873
  21. 13:45Cowboy Shooting Sport
  22. 14:07Significance in Modern Rifle Making
  23. 14:49Tubular Magazine and Special Orders
  24. 15:05Customization Options (Barrel, Stock, Magazine)
  25. 15:38Propelling Winchester's Industry Dominance
  26. 15:52Global Popularity and Military Involvement
  27. 16:16Cleaning Rod Storage Compartment
  28. 17:09Dust Cover Precedent (AR-15)
  29. 17:25Evolution from Henry Rifle Company
  30. 18:01Volcanic Repeating Arms and Early Cartridges
  31. 18:22Oliver Winchester and Company Renaming
  32. 18:44Steel Receiver vs. Brass Receiver
  33. 19:05Production Timeline and Cessation
  34. 19:35Antique Status and Shooter Capability
  35. 19:56Cartridge Power Limitations
  36. 20:02Velocity of 44-40 and 38-40
  37. 20:28Centerfire Cartridge Options Recap
  38. 20:36Unpopularity of the .22 LR Variant
  39. 21:12Evolution to the Model 94 (John Browning)
  40. 21:43John Browning's Breech Block Design
  41. 22:13Successors to the Model 1873
  42. 22:33Great History and Significance
  43. 22:47Buckhorn Sights Analysis
  44. 23:57Buckhorn Sight Evolution (Model 94)
  45. 24:30Winchester's Continuous Evolution
  46. 24:36Conclusion and Thanks

Frequently Asked Questions

What were the primary calibers for the Winchester Model 1873?

The Winchester Model 1873 was primarily chambered in three centerfire calibers: 38 WCF (commonly known as 38-40), 44 WCF (commonly known as 44-40), and 32-20 WCF. It was also produced in .22 Long Rifle, though this variant was not popular.

What is the significance of the Winchester Model 1873's action?

The Model 1873 features a toggle link action, an evolution from earlier Winchester and Henry rifles. While functional, this design has limitations on safe cartridge pressure, typically restricted to below 14,000 psi, making it a Class 1 firearm according to reloading standards.

Why is the Winchester Model 1873 called 'The Gun That Won the West'?

The 'Gun That Won the West' moniker was largely a successful marketing slogan by Winchester, applied even before the rifle's full impact was realized. However, the Model 1873 became an iconic firearm during the latter stages of Western expansion and settlement.

What is the purpose of the sliding cover on the rear of the Winchester Model 1873?

The sliding brass cover found on the rear of the Winchester Model 1873 is designed for the storage of a cleaning rod. This feature predates similar dust covers seen on modern firearms and was a practical element for maintaining the rifle in the field.

More Reviews Videos You Might Like

More from GunBlue490

View all →