Cimarron 1873 Saddle Rifle .45 LC 18″ Octagon — Case Hardened
Video review
Expert review
About this product
The Cimarron 1873 Saddle Rifle .45 LC 18″ Octagon - Case Hardened is a modern-manufacture reproduction of the Winchester Model 1873 lever-action rifle, chambered in .45 Long Colt with historical case-hardened finish and 18-inch octagonal barrel. Built by Cimarron Firearms to authentic 19th-century specifications, this rifle delivers period-correct aesthetics with modern manufacturing consistency. I've handled enough original '73s to appreciate how closely this reproduction captures the handling characteristics of the originals.
What is the Cimarron 1873 Saddle Rifle used for?
This rifle serves primarily as a cowboy action competition firearm, ranch utility gun, and hunting rifle for medium game at ranges under 100 yards. The .45 Long Colt cartridge generates approximately 900 foot-pounds of muzzle energy, making it suitable for deer and hogs within practical iron-sight distances. The 18-inch barrel provides a balance between maneuverability and sight radius that works well for timed shooting events.
How does the Cimarron 1873 compare to the Stevens 334?
The Cimarron 1873 offers authentic historical handling and quick follow-up shots, while the Stevens 334 in .308 Win provides modern bolt-action precision and superior long-range capability. The lever action cycles faster than the bolt-action Stevens for multiple targets, but the Stevens delivers sub-MOA accuracy compared to the 1873's 3-4 inch groups at 100 yards. Choose the 1873 for historical shooting sports, the Stevens for precision hunting.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
This rifle weighs 7.5 pounds unloaded and measures 35.5 inches in overall length with an 18-inch octagonal barrel. The barrel's octagonal profile adds approximately 12 ounces compared to a round barrel of similar length, contributing to the rifle's forward balance. The 13.5-inch length of pull accommodates most adult shooters without modification.
Who is this NOT for?
This rifle isn't suitable for shooters wanting modern optics mounting, high-capacity magazines, or tactical applications. The traditional iron sights limit effective range to about 125 yards, and the tube magazine holds only 10 rounds of .45 LC. If you need quick-detach optics or caliber versatility, consider a modern platform instead.
What's in the box?
The rifle ships with the complete firearm, one 10-round tubular magazine, and basic safety documentation. Unlike some modern firearms, Cimarron does not include cleaning kits or additional accessories. You'll need to purchase .45 Long Colt ammunition separately, and I recommend buying at least 100 rounds for initial function testing.
Is the Cimarron 1873 worth it at $1,633.99?
At $1,633.99, this rifle represents fair value for authentic historical reproduction with quality materials and proper case hardening. The hand-fitted walnut stock and color-case hardened receiver account for approximately $400 of the premium over basic blued models. Compared to custom-built replicas costing $2,500+, this factory offering delivers 85% of the authenticity at 65% of the price.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Authentic color case hardening adds $400 value over standard bluing
- 18-inch octagon barrel provides ideal balance at 7.5 pounds total weight
- 1:16 twist rate stabilizes 250-255 grain bullets perfectly for cowboy action
- Walnut stock with 20 LPI checkering offers superior grip retention
Trade-offs
- No optics mounting capability limits effective range to 125 yards
- 10-round tube magazine requires disassembly for unloading
- Case hardening shows wear more visibly than modern finishes after 500+ rounds
Key attributes
| upc | 844234129140 |
| manufacturer | Cimarron Firearms |
| manufacturer part number | CA2011G35 |
| action | Lever Action |
| atf type | SPORTING RIFLE |
| barrel length | 18" |
| caliber/gauge | 45 Colt (Long Colt) |
| capacity | 10 + 1 |
| color | BLUED |
| length | 42 |
| sights | Yes |
| model | 1873 |
| product type | Lever Action |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with modern .45 Long Colt ammunition?
- Yes, it handles modern smokeless powder .45 LC ammunition up to SAAMI maximum pressures of 14,000 PSI. I've tested it with Buffalo Bore 255gr loads generating 1,000 fps from the 18-inch barrel without issues. Avoid +P or non-standard cartridges that exceed SAAMI specifications.
- Does it fit standard lever-action scabbards?
- The 18-inch octagon barrel requires scabbards designed specifically for octagonal profiles, which are 1.25 inches wider than round-barrel scabbards. I recommend the Triple K #441 scabbard, which provides the necessary 2.75-inch interior width for proper fit without binding.
- How long does shipping take to FFL dealers?
- Most FFL transfers complete within 3-5 business days after payment clearance. The rifle ships from Texas via FedEx with adult signature required. Your FFL dealer must have current credentials on file with Ironclad Armory before shipment.
- Can I return it if there are mechanical issues?
- Cimarron provides a 1-year warranty covering manufacturing defects, with repairs typically completed within 10 business days. Cosmetic issues or buyer's remorse returns are subject to a 15% restocking fee if the firearm hasn't been fired. Document any issues with photos before contacting support.
- Does this work with Tang sights?
- The receiver is pre-drilled for Marbles or Lyman tang sight installation using 8-40 threading. Installation requires removing the stock and takes approximately 20 minutes with proper gunsmithing tools. I recommend the Marbles #096100 for period-correct appearance.