
Hello, I am new to the forum. I have a Winchester 1873 32/20 with Octagon Barrel that was passed down to me by my dad. I\’m trying to find out more about the gun. I found out it was manufactured around 1901 to 1902. I\’m trying to find out what type of ammo is best to shoot from it. I\’ve looked all over but no one can truly confirm and contacted Winchester but they can\’t truly confirm as well as other resources and left messages but still, no one can confirm. Can anyone on here help me? Thanks In Advance!!
Ray,
The only information out there about your gun is going to be at the Cody firearms records office at the below link. What they will have is the date it entered the warehouse and shipped along with it configuration when it was made. They will not have who bought it unless it was at the end of production. I have been conducting a survey of all 73’s that will reveal what was made. If you can get me the serial number and its configuration I will add it to the survey.
https://centerofthewest.org/explore/firearms/firearms-records/
A 73 can be shot with smokeless loads made for pistols if the gun is in good condition. The issue now is the lack of certain ammo. You can buy common calibers for modern handguns and rifles but for the old guns are not a big seller for them so its hard to find. If the bore is in good condition you can shoot lead bullets but if the bore is rough from rust pits you will want to shoot jacketed bullets which are hard to find where lead bullets are easily cast. The best place to find ammo for them is at the Tulsa show. There are people selling cowboy action loads as well.
Bob
WACA Life Member--- NRA Life Member---- Cody Firearms member since 1991 Researching the Winchester 1873's
Email: [email protected]
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