Description
The Cimarron CA206 1873 20-inch Octagon .44 Special 10+1 is a faithful reproduction of the Winchester 1873, built to modern tolerances with period-correct styling. Chambered in .44 S&W Special, this lever-action rifle holds 10+1 rounds and features a 20-inch octagon barrel with a blued finish, color case hardened receiver, and a walnut fixed pistol grip stock. It’s built for right-hand shooters and ready for the field or the range.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Cimarron Firearms |
| Model | CA206 1873 Short Deluxe Full Size |
| Material | Steel barrel & receiver, walnut stock |
| Compatibility | .44 S&W Special |
| Finish | Blued barrel, color case hardened receiver |
| Weight | 7.8 lbs (per manufacturer specs) |
| Condition | New |
Key Features
- 20-inch Octagon Barrel — The longer sight radius and added weight tame recoil and improve accuracy for off-hand shooting. Why it matters: You’ll hold steadier on a buck at 75 yards than with a round barrel of the same length.
- Color Case Hardened Receiver — A traditional finish that resists corrosion and adds a classic look. Why it matters: This receiver won’t show wear like a blued one after a few wet hunts, and it’s true to the original 1873 design.
- Walnut Fixed Pistol Grip Stock — Shaped for a natural point of aim, with a checkered grip for a secure hold. Why it matters: You’ll get a consistent cheek weld and faster target acquisition, whether you’re shooting from a stand or on foot.
- 10+1 Capacity in .44 S&W Special — A proven revolver cartridge that’s accurate and mild-recoiling in a rifle. Why it matters: You can shoot all day without fatigue, and the 11-round total means fewer reloads during a busy day in the woods.
- Right-Hand Configuration — Traditional side ejection and a right-side loading gate. Why it matters: If you’re right-handed, you’ll work the lever and load without breaking your cheek weld.
Comparison vs. Competitors
| Feature | Cimarron CA206 | Zev Technologies Z19 | Geissele Automatics Super Duty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Action | Lever action | Striker-fired semi-auto | Direct impingement semi-auto |
| Caliber | .44 S&W Special | 9mm | 5.56 NATO |
| Barrel Length | 20 inches | 4.49 inches | 14.5 inches |
| Capacity | 10+1 | 15+1 | 30+1 |
| Weight | 7.8 lbs | 1.8 lbs | 6.5 lbs |
| Finish | Blued & case hardened | Black nitride | Black anodized |
| Best For | Hunting, cowboy action, target | Concealed carry, competition | Home defense, tactical |
Who It’s For
This rifle is built for hunters who want a classic lever action that’s as comfortable in the saddle scabbard as it is in the gun rack of a pickup. It’s also a natural fit for cowboy action shooters who need a reliable .44 Special that cycles smooth and looks the part. If you’re a collector who shoots, you’ll appreciate the period-correct styling and modern internals.
Pros & Cons
- Pros: Authentic 1873 styling, smooth action right out of the box, mild-recoiling .44 Special, 20-inch barrel balances well, color case hardened receiver adds durability.
- Cons: The .44 Special is less common than .44 Magnum, so ammo can be harder to find in rural stores. Also, the fixed pistol grip stock won’t suit left-handed shooters without a custom build.
FAQ
What is the barrel twist rate on the Cimarron CA206?
The barrel has a 1:20-inch twist rate, which stabilizes standard .44 Special bullets from 180 to 240 grains. Per Cimarron’s specs, this twist works well for both lead and jacketed loads.
Can I shoot .44 Magnum in this rifle?
No. The Cimarron CA206 is chambered exclusively for .44 S&W Special. Do not attempt to fire .44 Magnum; the chamber is shorter and the pressure difference can damage the rifle. Stick to .44 Special loads only.
Is the receiver drilled and tapped for a scope?
No, the receiver is not drilled and tapped. This rifle is designed for iron sights—a buckhorn rear and bead front. If you want optics, you’ll need a side-mount or a tang-mounted peep sight. Many cowboy shooters prefer the traditional look of open sights anyway.
What is the overall length of this rifle?
Overall length is 38.5 inches. That makes it compact enough for a scabbard but long enough for a full-size sight radius. You’ll find it handles well in brush or from a tree stand.
Does this model use the original toggle-link action?
Yes, it uses the classic toggle-link design that made the 1873 famous. Cimarron has improved the heat treatment and springs for reliability, but the action cycles just like the originals. Expect a smooth, positive feel with no binding.
Final Thoughts
If you’re after a lever gun that looks like it stepped out of a Western but shoots like a modern rifle, the Cimarron CA206 is a solid choice. It’s accurate enough for deer at 100 yards, fun for plinking, and built to last. According to Cimarron’s own specs, the action is timed and fitted by hand, which means you won’t have to break it in for a season before it runs smooth. One honest drawback: the .44 Special ammo isn’t as common as .357 or .44 Magnum, so plan ahead or reload. But for those who appreciate a classic round, this rifle delivers.
✓ Nationwide delivery (all 50 states)
✓ Ships 1-2 business days
✓ 30-day returns
✓ Secure checkout
Browse more lever action rifles in our Lever Action Rifles category, or check out Cimarron Firearms and .44 Special Ammunition.
Last updated: April 2026
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