Uberti Taylor’s & Co. Model 1873 .357 Magnum 18″ Lever Action Short Rifle
SOLD FOR: $1,042.00
LSB#: LSB260121CR011
Make: Uberti, Imported by Taylor’s & Co.
Model: 1873 Short Rifle
Serial Number: W22475
Year of Manufacture: Modern
Caliber: .357 Mag./.38 Special
Action Type: Lever Action Rifle w/ Full Length Mag Tube
Markings: The top of the barrel is marked “TAYLOR & CO WINCHESTER VIRGINIA/ A. UBERTI MADE IN ITALY”. The barrel near the chamber is marked CAL .357 Mag.” The bottom of the receiver behind the lifter is marked “CAT.15673” with Italian proof marks. The lower tang is marked with the serial number “W22475” and “A.UBERTI-ITALY”. The upper tang is marked “MODEL 1873”. The magazine cap is marked “CAPT. BAYLOR”. (SASS Alias “Captain George Baylor” was an iconic Cowboy Action Shooter and author.)
Barrel Length: 18” Octagonal
Sights / Optics: The front sight is an aftermarket heavy brass beaded blade dovetailed to the barrel. The rear sight is a semi-buckhorn U notch elevator sight that has been filed flat and is dovetailed to the receiver.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are a two piece checkered walnut, with a checkered pistol grip, straight comb, capped forend, and crescent buttplate. A flat competition trigger has been installed. There is a repair on the left wrist that has 5 nails. It is repairing a crack between the rear end of the receiver and the upper tang. The lever lock retaining latch has been removed. The lever is leather-wrapped. The LOP is 13″ from the trigger to the end of the buttstock. There are many dings and scratches in the forearm, pistol grip and buttstock from heavy competition use. There are scratches and compression dents throughout the forearm and the buttstock. There are no chips or cracks. Overall the stocks are in Fair condition.
Type of Finish: Blue & Case Color
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and shiny and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore but there is a moderate amount of fouling. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 8.5/10.
Overall Condition: This gun retains about 80% of its metal finish. There is thinning on the leading edges of the barrel and magazine. There is handling and operational wear including multiple dings and scratches. The case colors are still present on the lever and on the receiver. There are scratches on the sideplates and deep scratches on the top of the buttplate. The screws are tool marked but sharp and serviceable. The markings are clear. Overall this rifle is in Good condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. There has been a short stroke modification installed with a flat-faced trigger and new lightweight lifter. The action function is VERY smooth and perfect for a competition Cowboy Action rifle. The lever has a good bit of side-to-side play. The lever safety is present but the lever lock has been removed. We have not fired this rifle. As with all previously owned firearms, a thorough cleaning may be required to meet your maintenance standards. This rifle has had a short stroke kit with a professional action job installed and runs really smooth.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None
Our Assessment: The Taylor’s & Co. Model 1873 Short Rifle is a modern reproduction of the iconic Winchester Model 1873, manufactured by A. Uberti S.r.l. and imported by Taylor’s & Company. Built with an 18” octagonal barrel and classic styling, these rifles are highly regarded in Cowboy Action Shooting circles for their balance, reliability, and historical appeal. This example carries additional character with the “CAPT. BAYLOR” marking on the magazine cap and was owned by SASS alias “Captain George Baylor,” a respected Hall of Fame Cowboy Action Shooter and author, further tying it to the sport’s competitive heritage.
This rifle has been heavily used and purpose-built for competition, featuring a professionally installed short-stroke action, lightweight lifter, and flat-faced trigger for faster cycling and improved performance. The action is described as very smooth and optimized for Cowboy Action Shooting. Condition reflects extensive use, with approximately 80% finish remaining, visible thinning, scratches, and tool marks. The stocks show significant wear, including numerous dents and a notable repaired crack at the wrist reinforced with nails. Despite this, the bore remains bright with strong rifling, rating 8.5/10, and the rifle continues to function correctly.
Overall, this is a well-used but highly functional competition rifle, ideal for someone looking to step into Cowboy Action Shooting with a tuned and proven platform rather than a collector-grade example. Its modifications and smooth action make it a strong performer on the range, while its wear tells the story of extensive use in the sport. Please see our photos for a better understanding of condition and good luck with your bids!
BF