Win 73 replica, rifle choice and reloading

[bajabill]

Im considering getting a Navy Arms (Uberti) Win 73 deluxe sporting rifle.  This one has the pistol grip stock which I prefer, but when I see pictures of the original winchesters, they are usually the straight stock.  Are the pistol grip models less "historically accurate"?

Also, is there a trend with Uberti's 44-40 barrel diameters.  I see many recommendations to slug the barrel, but typically are they compatible with 44cal bullets or do they run smaller and require the .426ish bullets.  I would like to use jacketed bullets, but I dont think I am going to be running a lot of ammo thru it.  This is not going to be a high use gun for me, more of a "like to have in the safe" and talk about item.

[jimster]

Yes, Winchester made pistol grip stocks...

http://antiquearmsinc.com/winchester-1873-deluxe-rifle-antique.htm

As far as what companies make what diameter...you might want to check what Uberti does with their rifle.  If I remember, Ruger made some 44-40's in their Vaquero's that were .429, same as the 44 spec and 44 mag,  I do not know if other makers have done this, or what Uberti does. 
I think .427 was the norm for 44-40.  I'm sure there is someone else on here with more experience in Uberti 73's and the 44-40.

The deluxe sporting rifle that Uberti makes is a real eye catcher,  they have one down at the local gun shop, it's real sweet looking. 

[Blackhawk44]

Lets see, Uberti has been building the 1873 for forty years, so the experience and quality is proven.  The orginal pistol gripped 1873's were made on order and today are quite valuable.  Either .427 or .428 inch cast bullets should do you all that you require of this fine piece.  Don't be tempted to try a .429 diameter, while they may fit the barrels, they won't fit in most chambers throats.  Enjoy.     

[bajabill]

is $900 about a typical price for the deluxe sporting 24.25" Navy Arms version?

[jimster]

Yes...900 is pretty typical....the one they have in the gun shop down here is over 1000....

[AtlLaw]

A friend has one of the Deluxe Sporting Rifles and it is a thing of beauty!  But Let me expand the OP's question.  Understanding that the toggle link action isn't as strong as the later designs, does anyone know what level 45 Colt loads are safe in it?  Can I equal or exceed levels that produce say, 1000 fps w/a 250 gr. bullet? Just curious... 

[jimster]

In my opinion I would not exceed the orginal .45 colt pressures in the toggle link action.  If that is aprox. 900 fps out of a handgun, then you might get 1000 fps out of your longer barrel.  I think the 92 action is better if your planning on exceeding 1000 fps with a 250 gr. 

[Graybeard]

Black powder pressure levels ONLY in this one. If you'd not use it in an original Colt then don't use it in your Repro '73.

[AtlLaw]

Thanks.  I pretty much figured that was the case but I was hopeing I could go up to Ruger pistol load level.     They such a PRETTY rifle!

[Graybeard]

Buy a '92 and you can.

[dpe.ahoy]

With the 92, you can go beyond Ruger levels.  Ref. Paco Kelly.  DP

[bajabill]

she is home

I also picked up a box of black hills ammo that should provide me with enough brass to reload this for a while if I want to.  I has lead bullets that are .429 dia and they chamber fine in the 1873.   So I may be able to use the bullets I have around for my 44 mag to load with.


Is there a link to some backyard gunsmithing on these guns, I want to lighten the safety lever spring a bit.  Also, my lever is blued, is there a place that sells aftermarket parts, such as a case hardened lever?