If you’re looking to shave seconds off your stage times in cowboy action shooting, the Win 1873 competion carb 38/357 10rd is the lever gun that’ll get you there. This isn’t your granddad’s hunting rifle—it’s a competition-ready carbine built on the legendary 1873 action, chambered in versatile .38 Special/.357 Magnum, and tuned straight from the factory for speed. With a 10-round capacity, a shorter lever stroke, and color case-hardened accents, it’s designed for shooters who need every edge on the firing line. Per Winchester specs, the action has been performance-tuned to reduce lever arc, letting you cycle faster without losing control. Whether you’re a seasoned competitor or a first-time buyer looking for a reliable, accurate lever gun, this carbine delivers where it counts.
| Manufacturer | Winchester |
|---|---|
| Model | 1873 Competition Carbine |
| Material | Walnut stock, steel barrel band, color case-hardened receiver and buttplate |
| Compatibility | .38 Special / .357 Magnum |
| Finish | Color case-hardened receiver, blued barrel |
| Weight | 7.2 lbs (per manufacturer specs) |
| Condition | New |
Key Features
- Performance-Tuned Action: Why it matters: The lever stroke has been shortened and smoothed, so you can cycle rounds faster—critical when every split-second counts in competition.
- 10-Round Magazine Capacity: Why it matters: More rounds between reloads means less downtime on the clock, giving you a real advantage in multi-stage events.
- Color Case-Hardened Receiver & Buttplate: Why it matters: Not just for looks—this traditional finish resists wear and corrosion, keeping your rifle looking sharp round after round.
- Saddle Ring Ready: Why it matters: A nod to the cowboy era, the saddle ring lets you carry the rifle conveniently from a sling or saddle, ideal for mounted shooting or quick transitions.
- Walnut Stock with Barrel Band: Why it matters: The walnut stock provides a solid, comfortable grip, while the barrel band adds rigidity for consistent accuracy shot to shot.
Who It’s For
This carbine is built for cowboy action shooters who want a factory-tuned lever gun without sending it to a gunsmith. It’s also a great pick for recreational shooters who appreciate the classic 1873 design but want modern performance features. First-time buyers will find the .38/.357 chambering forgiving on recoil and affordable to shoot.
Pros & Cons
- Pro: Factory-tuned action saves you the cost and wait of aftermarket work.
- Pro: Dual-caliber flexibility—shoot .38 Special for practice, .357 Magnum for power.
- Pro: Classic styling with competition-ready upgrades.
- Con: The 10-round capacity might feel limiting for shooters used to 15+ rounds in other platforms, though it’s standard for lever guns in this class.
Comparison: Win 1873 Competition Carbine vs. Competitors
| Feature | Win 1873 Comp Carbine | Marlin 1894 CST | Henry Big Boy Steel |
|---|---|---|---|
| Action Tuning | Factory performance-tuned (shorter stroke) | Standard lever stroke | Standard lever stroke |
| Capacity | 10 rounds | 8 rounds | 10 rounds |
| Finish | Color case-hardened receiver | Stainless steel | Blued steel |
| Weight | 7.2 lbs | 6.5 lbs | 7.0 lbs |
| Caliber | .38/.357 | .357 Magnum only | .357 Magnum only |
| Price | $1,702.53 | $1,499 | $1,025 |
The Win 1873 Competition Carbine stands out with its factory-tuned action and dual-caliber versatility, while the Marlin 1894 CST is lighter but has fewer rounds and no tuning. The Henry Big Boy Steel is more affordable but lacks the competition-ready upgrades out of the box. For serious shooters, the Winchester’s shorter lever stroke alone is worth the premium.
FAQ
What makes the Win 1873 Competition Carbine different from a standard 1873?
The big difference is the factory performance tuning. The lever stroke has been shortened and smoothed for faster cycling, and it comes with a 10-round magazine, color case-hardened finish, and a saddle ring—all designed for competition use right out of the box.
Can I shoot .38 Special in this rifle?
Yes, absolutely. The Win 1873 competion carb 38/357 10rd is chambered for both .38 Special and .357 Magnum. .38 Special is great for practice and low-recoil shooting, while .357 Magnum gives you full power for longer ranges or heavier game.
Is this rifle suitable for a first-time buyer?
Definitely. The .38/.357 chambering is easy on recoil and affordable to feed, and the tuned action makes cycling smooth even for new shooters. The classic design is also a joy to handle at the range.
How does the 10-round capacity compare to other lever guns?
10 rounds is on the higher end for lever-action rifles in this class. Many competitors like the Marlin 1894 CST offer only 8 rounds. It gives you more firepower between reloads, which is a real advantage in timed events.
Does the color case-hardened finish require special care?
Not really. The color case-hardened receiver is durable and resistant to wear. Just wipe it down with a light oil after shooting to keep it looking good, same as any blued or stainless steel firearm.
Trust & Delivery
- ✅ Nationwide delivery (all 50 states)
- ✅ Ships 1-2 business days
- ✅ 30-day returns
- ✅ Secure checkout
Last updated: April 2026
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