Oil-finished walnut gives a rifle a handmade feel, and Winchester's 1873 Short Rifle wears it well. This model 534200140 is chambered in .44-40 Winchester, has a 20-inch barrel, holds ten plus one rounds, and has a blued finish.

The 1873 earned its fame as the gun that won the West, and the Short Rifle keeps the pattern in a handier size. A 20-inch barrel is light and fast in the hands and easy to carry. The .44-40 is a gentle cartridge with a long history on ranches and trails.

Cowboy action shooters will appreciate the combination of a short lever, ten-plus-one capacity, and a rifle that matches revolvers in the same caliber. For hunters who like classic arms, it can take deer and hogs at moderate range where the law allows.

Oil finish on walnut is simple to maintain. Rub on a bit of stock oil from time to time, keep it dry, and avoid harsh solvents. Wipe the barrel and oil the action after wet days. The rifle ships to your FFL dealer, where the background check is completed before you take it home.