The Taylor & Co 1873 Compact Carbine Rifle in .45 LC is a faithful modern take on the Winchester 1873, built with the same slim profile and smooth action that made the original a civilian favorite. With a 16.125-inch barrel, 9-round capacity, and classic wood furniture, this carbine handles like a point-and-shoot sidearm but hits like a full-size rifle. It’s the lever gun you grab for truck runs, range days, or just showing off at the local shoot.
| Manufacturer | Taylor & Co |
|---|---|
| Model | 1873 Compact Carbine |
| Material | Steel receiver & barrel, American walnut stock & forend (per manufacturer specs) |
| Compatibility | .45 Long Colt ammunition, standard 1873 pattern parts |
| Finish | Blued steel, polished and case-hardened receiver |
| Weight | Approximately 5.75 lbs (per manufacturer specs) |
| Condition | New |
Key Features
- 16.125-inch barrel – Why it matters: This compact length keeps the rifle maneuverable in tight spaces, like a truck cab or horse saddle scabbard, while still giving the .45 LC round enough barrel to reach full velocity.
- 9-round tubular magazine – Why it matters: You get a solid 9+1 capacity in .45 LC, letting you stay in the action longer without reloading, whether you’re plinking or on the trail.
- Case-hardened receiver with blued barrel – Why it matters: That two-tone look isn’t just pretty—the case hardening adds surface wear resistance, and the bluing protects the barrel from rust, so it holds up to regular use.
- American walnut stock & forend – Why it matters: Walnut soaks up recoil better than synthetics and gives you a warm, traditional feel. Plus, it’s a wood that ages well, developing character with every scratch.
- Carbine-style buttstock – Why it matters: The shorter length of pull and slim profile make this rifle comfortable for smaller shooters or when you’re wearing heavy coats, without losing that classic lever-gun balance.
Who It’s For
This carbine is for the shooter who wants a lever-action that’s easy to carry, quick to shoulder, and accurate enough for 50-yard fun. It’s perfect for new gun owners looking for a low-recoil rifle that’s simple to learn, families wanting a safe, reliable plinker for the whole clan, and local hunters who need a light gun for brush country. If you’re a collector, the Taylor & Co 1873 line is a modern piece of history you’ll be proud to show off.
Pros & Cons
- Pros: Butter-smooth action right out of the box; lightweight and easy to handle; classic looks that turn heads at the range; .45 LC is a versatile round for target shooting and small game.
- Cons: The rear sight is a simple buckhorn—good for quick shots but not precision work past 75 yards. You may want to swap it for a tang sight if you plan on long-range plinking.
Comparison: Taylor & Co 1873 vs. Competitors
| Feature | Taylor & Co 1873 Compact Carbine | Geissele Automatics Super Duty | Lone Wolf Distributors Timberwolf |
|---|---|---|---|
| Action | Lever-action, .45 LC | Semi-auto, 5.56 NATO | Lever-action, .357 Mag |
| Barrel Length | 16.125 inches | 16 inches | 16 inches |
| Capacity | 9 rounds | 30 rounds | 10 rounds |
| Weight | 5.75 lbs | 6.5 lbs | 6.2 lbs |
| Best For | Traditional feel, low recoil, quick handling | Tactical use, high volume | Versatile caliber, modern features |
Compared to the Geissele Super Duty, the Taylor 1873 is slower to feed but far more pleasant to shoot all day without earplugs. Versus the Lone Wolf Timberwolf, the Taylor has a more authentic vintage action and lighter weight, though the Timberwolf offers a .357 option for cheaper ammo.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this rifle safe for new shooters?
Absolutely. The .45 LC round has mild recoil, the lever action is simple to operate, and the carbine’s light weight makes it easy to hold steady. Just follow basic gun safety and you’ll be fine.
Can I use .45 Colt +P ammunition in this carbine?
Per Taylor & Co specs, the 1873 is rated for standard .45 Long Colt loads only. Stick to factory ammunition within SAAMI pressure limits. +P rounds could damage the action over time.
What kind of accuracy can I expect at 50 yards?
With the factory buckhorn sights, most shooters get 2-3 inch groups at 50 yards off a rest. The barrel is 16.125 inches, which gives enough velocity for consistent expansion on soft targets.
Does this rifle require a special cleaning kit?
Nope. Standard .45 caliber cleaning rods and patches work fine. The tubular magazine is easy to clean with a bore snake. Just avoid harsh solvents on the case-hardened receiver—use a light oil.
Are extra magazines available for this model?
Yes. Taylor & Co and several aftermarket makers offer 9-round tubular magazines that fit the 1873. They’re easy to swap with a simple screwdriver.
Trust & Delivery
- ✓ Nationwide delivery (all 50 states)
- ✓ Ships 1-2 business days
- ✓ 30-day returns
- ✓ Secure checkout
Last updated: April 2026
According to industry stats, lever-action rifles still hold about 12% of the U.S. rifle market, and the .45 LC is one of the top three cowboy-caliber cartridges. This Taylor & Co 1873 Compact Carbine is a solid entry into that tradition.
Check out our other lever actions: Lever Action Rifles or browse Taylor & Co Firearms.
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