1873 Winchester inspection?

[GARCIA]

Looks as if I may have the opportunity to purchase a 1873 Winchester in 32-20.
Individual states that it is a third model.

Anyone have any tips for the inspection process of this weapon?

Owner did state that it is missing rear sight and dust cover.

Tom

[ReloaderFred]

Tom,

The obvious things, such as cracked or missing wood, bore condition, dings on the muzzle, the bolt face, etc. If he will let you carefully remove the sideplates, check for bent toggles.

Replacement rear sights are available, and a lot of shooters just removed the dust cover anyway. There's a lug that moves the dust cover to the rear when the rifle is cycled, and that often got worn if the rifle was cycled a lot.

Hope this helps.

Fred

[GARCIA]

Reloader Fred:

Glad you told me about the toggles, would of never thought about it.
Have not had the chance to actually inspect at this point but hopefully soon.

Tom

[ReloaderFred]

Tom,

I've got a good friend who makes his living selling and servicing reproduction 1873's. He also works on a few original '73's, too, but prefers new stuff. You can contact him at www.pioneergunworks.com, and be sure to tell him I sent you.

Fred

[John Taylor]

The frames in the old 73s can have a bunch of ware. Drop the lever down half way and put your finger on the bolt face and see how much up and down movement there is. The part of the frame where the bolt rides is only about 1/8" thick and the bolt will ware this area as it is cycled. I have built up quite a few over the years to keep the bolt up.

[GARCIA]

Thanks to all that responded.
The guy backed out of the deal.

Well here is what I "WAS" trying to get.

Tom

http://www.theoutdoorstrader.com/showthread.php?t=112181