Description
If you’re looking for a lever gun that feels like it was built just for you, the Taylor’s 1873 Rifle .357 Mag 10rd Capacity 18” Barrel Walnut Tuned is the real deal. This is the deluxe Taylor Tuned model with a pistol grip, case-hardened frame, and checkered walnut stock and forend. The action has been hand-polished, the hammer and lever springs are custom, and the magazine tube spring is upgraded—all to give you a lighter, smoother cycle. No short-stroke links or leather extras here, just honest tuning where it counts.
| Manufacturer | Taylor’s & Company |
|---|---|
| Model | 1873 Rifle, Taylor Tuned, Deluxe Pistol Grip |
| Material | Walnut stock and forend (checkered), case-hardened steel receiver, blued barrel |
| Compatibility | .357 Magnum / .38 Special (per manufacturer specs) |
| Finish | Case-hardened receiver, blued barrel and magazine tube |
| Weight | Approx. 7.5 lbs (per manufacturer specs) |
| Condition | New |
Key Features
- Taylor Tuned Action – Why it matters: The custom hand-polishing and lighter springs reduce the effort to cycle the lever. You get a faster follow-up shot without fighting the action.
- Case-Hardened Frame – Why it matters: This isn’t just for looks. The case-hardening adds durability to the receiver, and the traditional finish resists wear where it counts.
- Checkered Walnut Stock & Forend – Why it matters: The checkering gives you a secure grip when your hands are wet or gloved. The pistol grip helps you keep the rifle shouldered tight for quick shots.
- 18” Barrel with 10-Round Capacity – Why it matters: The shorter barrel makes this rifle easy to carry in the brush, and 10 rounds of .357 Mag give you plenty of firepower for hogs or deer at moderate ranges.
- Custom Magazine Tube Spring – Why it matters: The upgraded spring ensures reliable feeding round after round. No binding, no hiccups, just smooth cycling.
Who It’s For
This rifle is for the hunter who wants a classic lever action that actually runs. It’s built for the guy who spends opening day in the thick stuff, chasing whitetails or hogs, and needs a gun that shoulders fast and shoots straight. It’s also for the cowboy action shooter who appreciates a tuned action without the short-stroke gimmicks. If you reload .357 Mag or .38 Special, this rifle lets you stretch your brass and save money at the range.
Pros & Cons
- Pro: The tuned action is noticeably smoother than a stock 1873. You can feel the difference the moment you work the lever.
- Pro: The checkered pistol grip stock gives you a solid hold, even with gloves on.
- Con: This model does not include short-stroke links or leather accessories. If you need those for competition, you’ll have to add them separately.
- Pro: The 18” barrel balances perfectly for carrying in a scabbard or slung over your shoulder on a long walk.
How It Stacks Up Against the Competition
| Feature | Taylor’s 1873 Rifle (This Model) | Zev Technologies OZ9C | Geissele Super Duty Rifle |
|---|---|---|---|
| Action Type | Lever action, tuned | Striker-fired pistol | Direct impingement AR-15 |
| Caliber | .357 Mag / .38 Special | 9mm | 5.56 NATO |
| Barrel Length | 18” | 4.17” | 16” |
| Capacity | 10 rounds | 15 rounds (magazine) | 30 rounds (magazine) |
| Tuning | Hand-polished action, custom springs | Factory match-grade barrel | Geissele trigger, premium barrel |
| Best For | Hunting, cowboy action, plinking | Concealed carry, competition | General purpose, home defense |
The Taylor’s 1873 is a purpose-built hunting and sport-shooting lever gun. The Zev and Geissele are modern platforms for different jobs. If you want a classic that’s been tuned to run like a modern rifle, this Taylor is your answer.
Frequently Asked Questions
What caliber does this rifle use?
It’s chambered in .357 Magnum and also cycles .38 Special. Per Taylor’s & Company specs, it’s designed to handle both safely. The 10-round capacity gives you plenty of firepower for hunting or target shooting.
Is the action really smoother than a stock 1873?
Yes. The Taylor Tuned model gets a hand-polished action, custom hammer and lever springs, and a custom magazine tube spring. According to Taylor’s specs, this reduces the effort needed to cycle the lever and improves overall reliability. It’s not a short-stroke kit, but the difference is noticeable.
Can I hunt deer with this rifle?
Absolutely. The .357 Magnum with a good soft-point load is effective on deer out to about 100 yards. The 18” barrel keeps it handy in the woods, and the checkered stock helps you hold steady in wet conditions.
Does it come with a scope or mounting hardware?
No, this rifle does not include a scope or mounting hardware. It has a standard dovetail rear sight and a blade front sight. You can add a tang sight or a scout-style scope if you prefer optics.
✓ Nationwide delivery (all 50 states) ✓ Ships 1-2 business days ✓ 30-day returns ✓ Secure checkout
Last updated: April 2026
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