Uberti 1866 Yellowboy 45 Long Colt Lever-Action Sporting
About this product
Kansas Gunshop is a Wichita, KS-based retailer specializing in firearms and FFL transfers. The Uberti 1866 Yellowboy 45 Long Colt Lever-Action Sporting rifle is a faithful reproduction of a classic lever-action design. Its distinctive brass receiver sets it apart. This rifle is available now for $799.00.
Reviewed by Derek, Owner & FFL Holder at Kansas Gunshop. Kansas-licensed FFL dealer since 2008, NRA Range Safety Officer.
Last updated: April 2026
What are the specifications of the Uberti 1866 Yellowboy?
| Product Type | Lever-Action Rifle |
|---|---|
| Material | Brass Receiver, Steel Barrel, Walnut Stock |
| Manufacturing | Uberti (Italy) |
| Finish | Polished Brass Receiver, Blued Steel Barrel |
| Hardness/Quality | Historically accurate materials and modern manufacturing standards |
| Compatibility | .45 Long Colt ammunition |
| Installation/Usage | Ready to shoot out of the box (after FFL transfer) |
| Weight | Approx. 8 lbs (unloaded) |
| Dimensions | Overall Length: Approx. 43 inches; Barrel Length: 24.25 inches |
| Country of Origin | Italy |
| Condition | New |
| SKU | UB342200 |
What are the key features of the Uberti 1866 Yellowboy?
The Uberti 1866 Yellowboy in .45 Long Colt is a well-regarded reproduction. The rifle features a distinctive polished brass receiver, which is where it gets its "Yellowboy" moniker. That brass isn't just for looks; it's a nod to the original Winchester 1866 design. The blued octagonal barrel, a classic touch, provides a good sight picture and contributes to the rifle's balance. The walnut stock and forend are well-fitted and offer a comfortable grip for shooting, whether you're plinking or in a Cowboy Action Shooting competition. The lever action is smooth, as you'd expect from Uberti, making for quick follow-up shots. The .45 Long Colt chambering is a popular choice for these rifles, offering a good balance of power and manageable recoil, and it's a cartridge that's readily available.
Who is the Uberti 1866 Yellowboy for?
Buy it if:
- You're a fan of classic Western firearms and want a faithful reproduction.
- You participate in Cowboy Action Shooting and need a reliable, period-correct rifle.
- You appreciate the craftsmanship of a brass-framed lever-action rifle.
- You're looking for a rifle chambered in .45 Long Colt for historical accuracy or cartridge commonality with a revolver.
- You want a unique firearm for display or light recreational shooting.
Skip it if:
- You need a rifle for modern hunting applications where longer ranges and higher power are required (see our modern hunting rifles).
- You prefer synthetic stocks and modern optics mounting options.
- You're on a very tight budget and need a purely utilitarian rifle (see our budget-friendly firearms).
- You're looking for a rifle with minimal maintenance requirements for the finish, as brass requires occasional polishing to maintain its luster.
What are the pros and cons of this rifle?
Pros:
- ✅ Authentic Reproduction: Uberti is known for its accurate historical reproductions, and this 1866 Yellowboy is no exception, right down to the brass receiver.
- ✅ Smooth Action: The lever action is typically very smooth out of the box, allowing for quick and reliable cycling.
- ✅ Classic Aesthetics: The polished brass receiver, blued octagonal barrel, and walnut furniture give it a timeless look.
- ✅ Chambered in .45 Long Colt: A versatile and historically appropriate cartridge, popular for both target shooting and Cowboy Action.
- ✅ Reliable Performance: These rifles are generally very reliable for their intended use.
Cons:
- ❌ Brass Receiver Maintenance: The brass receiver will tarnish over time and requires polishing to keep its shine.
- ❌ Limited Modern Use: While capable, it's not designed for long-range precision or heavy-duty hunting compared to modern rifles.
- ❌ No Optics Mount: As a historical reproduction, it lacks provisions for modern optics, relying solely on iron sights.
How does the Uberti 1866 Yellowboy compare to other lever-action rifles?
| Feature | Uberti 1866 Yellowboy | Rossi R92 (e.g., .357 Mag) | Marlin 1894 (e.g., .44 Mag) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Material | Brass Receiver, Steel Barrel, Walnut Stock | Steel Receiver, Steel Barrel, Wood or Synthetic Stock | Steel Receiver, Steel Barrel, Wood or Synthetic Stock |
| Quality | High-quality reproduction, historically accurate materials | Good utilitarian quality, can be a bit rough out of the box but reliable | High quality, robust build, known for durability |
| Compatibility | .45 Long Colt | Various calibers (.357 Mag, .44 Mag, .45 Colt) | Various calibers (.357 Mag, .44 Mag, .45 Colt) |
| Shipping | Ships from Wichita, KS via FFL | Ships via FFL | Ships via FFL |
| Lifespan/Durability | Very durable if maintained, brass receiver can show wear | Durable for regular use, steel receiver holds up well | Highly durable, built for rugged use |
| Price | ~$799.00 | ~$600-750 | ~$1000-1200+ |
Frequently Asked Questions about the Uberti 1866 Yellowboy
What is the effective range of the Uberti 1866 Yellowboy in .45 Long Colt?
The .45 Long Colt cartridge, when fired from a rifle-length barrel like the 1866 Yellowboy's, is generally effective out to about 100-150 yards for target shooting or light hunting. Beyond that, bullet drop becomes more significant, and accuracy can decrease.
Is the Uberti 1866 Yellowboy suitable for hunting?
For small to medium game at close to moderate ranges (under 100 yards), the .45 Long Colt in a rifle can be effective. However, it's not typically considered a primary choice for larger game or longer distances, especially compared to more powerful modern cartridges. It could be a fun rifle for Kansas deer season if you're hunting in thick cover and keeping shots close.
Does the brass receiver require special cleaning or care?
Yes, the brass receiver will naturally tarnish over time as it oxidizes. To maintain its bright, polished appearance, you'll need to periodically clean it with a brass polish. This is a common characteristic of these historical reproductions and part of their charm for many owners.
Are parts readily available for Uberti 1866 rifles?
Uberti is a well-established manufacturer, and parts for their popular reproductions like the 1866 Yellowboy are generally available through various online retailers and gunsmiths specializing in Cowboy Action firearms. We can also assist with finding parts if needed.
What kind of ammunition should I use with this rifle?
The Uberti 1866 Yellowboy in .45 Long Colt is designed for standard commercial .45 Long Colt ammunition. Always refer to your rifle's owner's manual for specific ammunition recommendations and warnings. Avoid using +P or heavily loaded ammunition unless explicitly stated as safe by the manufacturer.
Where can I buy firearms online?
You can buy firearms online from licensed FFL dealers like Kansas Gunshop (kansas-gunshop.com). We facilitate the purchase and transfer of firearms in compliance with all federal and state laws. After purchase, the firearm is shipped to your local FFL dealer for final transfer.
Is the Uberti 1866 Yellowboy a good choice for Cowboy Action Shooting?
Absolutely. The Uberti 1866 Yellowboy is a very popular and historically accurate choice for Cowboy Action Shooting competitors. Its smooth action, classic looks, and .45 Long Colt chambering make it well-suited for the sport.
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Last updated: April 2026