Tim,
You would first have to take the gun to a gunsmith and have it checked to make sure its mechanically sound. The Hollow point should not make a difference in how it feeds so then its a question if the rounds are loaded to be safe for it.
Bob
WACA Life Member--- NRA Life Member---- Cody Firearms member since 1991 Researching the Winchester 1873's
Email: [email protected]
I recall when it was not uncommon for people to rechamber ’92 .44-40’s to .44 magnum. I don’t recall concerns about the action or barrel strength. However I recall there were differences in the dimensions of the .44-40 case that made the rechamber to .44 magnum not optimal -especially if the cases were to be reloaded. Also, I have seen some .44-40 loads from older handloading manuals that approached the .44 magnum range. I think these came with some sort of caution that these loads could be used in the Model 1892 but not the Model 1873.
Both Winchester and UMC loaded a factory round listed as HIGH VELOCITY. These were spcifically made for model 1892 Winchesters and model 1894 Marlins. NOT INTENDED for use in the Model 1873 or Colt revolvers. Back in the 60’s, an outfit called Flagler Gun Clinic in Florida, bought a butt load of Winchesters that were in storage, after having been confiscated after the uprising with Poncho Villa. The model 92’s were completely rebuilt and offered in .44 magnum caliber. Most guns were rechambered only, not rebarreled. Many were made into 16 1/4″ trappers. New wood and refinished.
November 7, 2015

Doesn’t sound like this ammo is out on the ragged edge as I recall some of their offerings.
https://www.buffalobore.com/index.php?l=product_detail&p=514
Mike
WACA Life Member--- NRA Life Member---- Cody Firearms member since 1991 Researching the Winchester 1873's
Email: [email protected]
Tim Aldrich said
I have a Model 1892 lever manufactured in 1900. Octigan barrel. Am I able to Shoot 185g heavy 44-40 from Buffalo Bore out of Idaho? These are the hallow point cartridges. Would really like to hunt deer this year.
Buffalo Bore explains of such use, the information is there. Go re-read ALL of their information.
185gr Hammer
➤ 1,430 fps — Winchester Model 1892, 20-inch barrel, circa 1916
➤ 1,438 fps — Uberti Model 1873, 19-inch barrel, circa 1997
➤ 1,140 fps — Ruger Vaquero (large frame), 7.5-inch barrel, circa 2003
➤ 1,150 fps — Colt New Service, 7.5-inch barrel, circa 1905
➤ 1,042 fps — S&W Model 544, 5.5-inch barrel, circa 1980’s
➤ 1,137 fps — Custom (Brian Pearce made) SAA replica, 5.5-inch barrel, circa 2017
➤ 1,065 fps — Ruger converted 357 Mag. flat top, (by Jack Huntington) 4.75-inch barrel, circa 1959
ALSO…. Item # 44-40-185 Hammer is utilizing a soft copper alloy Hammer Bullet. The alloy used in this bullet is as soft as a copper alloy can get. Still, it’s doubtful that at a 1,300-fps impact on muscle it will mushroom much, if at all. If it hits bone at that velocity, it’ll likely mushroom depending on the size of the bone.
There is nothing “Heavy” about Buffalo Bore’s 44-40 cartridge loads. There can be certain concerns BUT BB claims their 44-40 loads are within SAAMI specs. If that is true, their loads should be at or below 11,000psi. Personally I think they are right at the limit for SAAMI specs.
I used BB’s 44-40 loads as a “control” when I performed 83 documented pressure tests on many different 44-40 handloads @ 10 shots each test. I then compared their loads with factory loads, factory cowboy loads, high pressure handloads and handloading manual loads as well as black powder loads in modern and vintage brass. All of my results are consistent and in line with each other with pressure information.
Can the Buffalo Bore loads be used in an original and replica Winchester 1892’s?
YES….can they be used in your 92′, that is a decision only the owner can make.
My Buffalo Bore Test Results https://sites.google.com/view/44winchester/chasing-the-44-40/factory-loads/buffalo-bore-target-181?authuser=0
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