The Taylors and Company 1873 .357 Magnum 20″ Octagon Rifle is a full-size lever-action built the way they used to make ’em—with modern heat-treated steel and a walnut stock that feels as good as it looks. Chambered in .357 Magnum, this rifle feeds 10+1 rounds through a smooth action, and the 20-inch octagon barrel gives you the balance and accuracy that made the 1873 a legend. Whether you’re punching paper, working the ranch, or just want a classic that’ll outlast you, this one’s ready to go.
| Manufacturer | Taylors and Company |
|---|---|
| Model | 1873 .357 Magnum 20″ Octagon Rifle |
| Material | White heat-treated steel barrel and frame; walnut stock |
| Compatibility | .357 Magnum / .38 Special |
| Finish | Blued steel |
| Weight | Approx. 8.2 lbs (per manufacturer specs) |
| Condition | New |
Key Features
- 20″ Octagon Barrel – Why It Matters: The octagon profile adds weight up front, which steadies your aim and soaks up recoil, making fast follow-up shots feel natural. You get the classic look with real performance gains.
- White Heat-Treated Steel Frame – Why It Matters: This isn’t a soft replica. The steel is hardened to handle the pressures of .357 Magnum, so you can shoot hot loads all day without worrying about wear. It’s built for the long haul.
- Walnut Fixed Pistol-Grip Stock – Why It Matters: Walnut is tough, dense, and ages beautifully. The pistol grip gives you a solid hold, especially when you’re shooting offhand or from a rest. It’s not just pretty—it works.
- 10+1 Capacity – Why It Matters: You get a full magazine tube that holds ten rounds, plus one in the chamber. That’s eleven shots of .357 Magnum on tap, which is plenty for plinking, varmint control, or just having fun at the range.
- Blade Front & Buckhorn Rear Sights – Why It Matters: These are classic, reliable sights that give you a clear sight picture without batteries or electronics. They’re adjustable for windage and elevation, so you can dial it in for your load.
Who It’s For
This rifle is for the shooter who wants a real, no-nonsense lever gun. It’s perfect for the guy or gal who’s new to lever actions and wants something that’s easy to learn on but won’t be outgrown. It’s also for the seasoned cowboy who appreciates the fit and finish of a Taylors and Company build. If you hunt, run a ranch, or just like ringing steel at the range, this 1873 fits right in.
Pros & Cons
- Pros: Authentic 1873 styling with modern steel; smooth action right out of the box; shoots .38 Special for cheaper practice; 10+1 capacity gives you plenty of firepower; octagon barrel looks great and helps accuracy.
- Cons: The buckhorn rear sight can be a little busy for some shooters—especially if you’re used to a peep or a red dot. It’s a classic design, but it takes a minute to get used to if you’re new to it.
Comparison
| Feature | Taylors 1873 .357 Magnum | Marlin 1894 .357 Magnum | Henry Big Boy .357 Magnum |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barrel Length | 20″ Octagon | 16.5″ Round | 20″ Round (or Octagon option) |
| Frame Material | White heat-treated steel | Stainless or blued steel | Brass or steel receiver |
| Capacity | 10+1 | 9+1 | 10+1 |
| Stock | Walnut pistol grip | Walnut pistol grip | Walnut pistol grip |
| Weight | ~8.2 lbs | ~6.8 lbs | ~7.2 lbs |
| Action Type | Toggle-link (1873) | Lever (1894) | Lever (Henry) |
| Price | $1,815.95 | ~$1,200–$1,400 | ~$1,000–$1,200 |
FAQ
Is this rifle safe to shoot .38 Special through?
Yes, absolutely. Per Taylors and Company specs, this rifle is chambered in .357 Magnum and will safely cycle .38 Special as well. It’s a great way to save money on ammo and reduce recoil for new shooters.
How does the 20″ octagon barrel affect handling?
The octagon barrel adds about a pound compared to a round barrel of the same length. That extra weight up front steadies your aim and cuts down on muzzle rise, so you can stay on target for fast follow-up shots. It makes the rifle feel solid and well-balanced.
Can I mount a scope on this rifle?
This model comes with open sights only, and the receiver is not drilled and tapped for a scope mount. If you want optics, you’d need to look at a gunsmith for a side-mount or use a tang-mounted peep sight. Most shooters keep it with the factory buckhorn for the classic look.
What’s the difference between this and an 1873 in .45 Colt?
The .357 Magnum version lets you shoot .38 Special for cheaper practice, while .45 Colt is a larger, slower round. The .357 gives you more versatility for target shooting and smaller game, and the ammo is easier to find. The action is the same either way.
Ready to Own a Piece of History?
The Taylors and Company 1873 .357 Magnum 20″ Octagon Rifle is in stock and ready to ship. Give us a call or stop by the shop if you’re local—we’d love to let you handle one. Otherwise, order online and we’ll have it on its way to your FFL in no time.
✓ Nationwide delivery (all 50 states) ✓ Ships 1-2 business days ✓ 30-day returns ✓ Secure checkout
Last updated: April 2026
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