Restoring G-G-G-randpa's 1873

[QuietShootr]

.44-40, .38-40, .32-20?

It's a .44-40.

And I certainly appreciate history. I just thought considering its condition (crusty, to be kind) means that it doesn't have much collector value as it is, so why not do it up a bit?

Of course, I've been on the lookout for a good condition Colt 1903 Pocket Hammerless in .380 to send to Novak for a work-over that would probably make you vomit.

[lamarbrog]

An 1873 Winchester is a lever action rifle/carbine...

Oops. I missed the vague reference to Winchester near the end. In my mind, when someone calls something an "1873" with no other information (as he did at least twice before Winchester was mentioned, and even then not as part of the model number) I default to a Colt 1873, Single Action Army.

[40Arpent]

In my mind, when someone calls something an "1873" with no other information (as he did at least twice before Winchester was mentioned, and even then not as part of the model number) I default to a Colt 1873, Single Action Army.

Also take note of what forum this thread is in.

[discreet]

Just restore it. You will end up feeling back for modifying it.

If you haven't had a chance to go shooting with it much, I can guarantee you will have a blast, without the "new" stuff. I absolutely love taking my 32-20 out. Much fun in ever way.

[40Arpent]

My vote is for #1, plus a new forend that would be artificially aged to match the condition of the stock. Not staunchly opposed to #3 though. Anything I'd have done in the vein of #2 would have to go the way of a Turnbull restoration.

[QuietShootr]

Where's a good place to get 1873 parts?

[lamarbrog]

Also take note of what forum this thread is in.

Excellent observation.

I clicked directly on this thread from the main forum page without entering this specific forum.

I'm just going to shut up now.

[TOrrock]

Where's a good place to get 1873 parts?

You will probably do best hanging out on some of the Cowboy Action forums, even if it might make your eyes bleed.

[discreet]

Where's a good place to get 1873 parts?

Small FFl's are the best way I have found. There are many shops who despise of anything new, and stick to the old stuff. This is pretty much how I got parts for my 32-20. Most of these tiny shops don't have websites so it's more just googling for phone numbers and calling in.

[J-Dub]

I vote for option 2.

The way i see it is, that rifle was made to shoot. So restore it to shootable condition, throw in some modern touches and be done with it.

44-40 is a great caliber from what i've read.