The Best Lever Gun Ever.

Published on April 15, 2026
Duration: 14:47

This video provides an in-depth review of the Winchester High-Grade Competition 1873 lever-action rifle, manufactured by Maroku in Japan. The reviewer, an experienced shooter, argues it is the best lever gun currently available, outperforming traditional competitors like Uberti out of the box. Key advantages highlighted include superior fit and finish, factory-installed short-stroke kit, zeroed sights, and aesthetically pleasing case hardening, making it competition-ready without modifications.

Quick Summary

The Winchester High-Grade Competition 1873, manufactured by Maroku, is hailed as the best lever gun available due to its out-of-the-box readiness for competition. It features a factory-installed short-stroke kit, zeroed sights, superior fit and finish, and historically accurate case hardening, surpassing competitors like Uberti which often require extensive modifications.

Chapters

  1. 00:05Introduction: The Best Lever Gun Question
  2. 00:30Not Sponsored Content Disclosure
  3. 00:55Introducing the Winchester High-Grade Competition 1873
  4. 01:43Cowboy Action Shooting Needs
  5. 02:39Uberti vs. Maroku Winchester: Initial Impressions
  6. 03:53Case Hardening Comparison: Winchester vs. Uberti
  7. 05:16Firing Pin Assembly Differences
  8. 05:45Fit and Finish: Winchester's Superiority
  9. 06:12Lever Throw and Short Stroke Kits
  10. 07:16Winchester's Factory Short Stroke Kit
  11. 07:42Competition Sights: Bead vs. Buckhorn
  12. 08:04Factory Zeroed Sights on Winchester
  13. 09:24Overall Fit, Finish, and Use
  14. 09:52Aftermarket Parts: Uberti vs. Winchester
  15. 11:13Downsides: Spring-Loaded Firing Pin
  16. 11:46Why This is the Best Lever Action Gun
  17. 11:50Competitors: Uberti, Henry USA, Marlin
  18. 13:05Pistol Caliber Lever Actions: The 1873 Winchester
  19. 13:35Conclusion: A Legacy Firearm
  20. 13:58Support InRangeTV

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Winchester High-Grade Competition 1873 the best lever gun?

The Winchester High-Grade Competition 1873, made by Maroku, is considered the best lever gun due to its superior out-of-the-box performance for competition. It features factory-installed short-stroke kits, zeroed sights, exceptional fit and finish, and aesthetically pleasing case hardening, eliminating the need for immediate aftermarket modifications common with competitors like Uberti.

How does the case hardening on the Winchester 1873 compare to Uberti models?

The case hardening on the Maroku-manufactured Winchester 1873 High-Grade Competition model is described as more historically accurate in appearance compared to Uberti's case hardening. While both use modern chemical processes, the Winchester's finish is closer to the look of original 1873 Winchester firearms.

Does the Winchester 1873 High-Grade Competition come ready for cowboy action shooting?

Yes, the Winchester High-Grade Competition 1873 is designed to be competition-ready right out of the box. It includes a factory-installed short-stroke kit for faster cycling, semi-buckhorn sights with a front bead for quick acquisition, and is reported to come zeroed, saving shooters time and effort on modifications.

What calibers are available for the Winchester High-Grade Competition 1873?

The Winchester High-Grade Competition 1873 lever-action rifle is available in popular pistol calibers. These include 357 Magnum, 38 Special, and 45 Colt, making it versatile for various shooting disciplines and personal preferences.

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