Kansas Gunshop is a Wichita, KS-based retailer specializing in firearms and accessories. The Uberti 1873 Special Sporting Short 357 Mag Lever-Action Rifle with Case is a faithful reproduction of a classic Old West firearm, chambered in a versatile cartridge. This rifle offers authentic styling and reliable performance for shooters and collectors alike. Available now for $1249.0.
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 1873 Special Sporting Short?
| Product Type | Lever-Action Rifle |
|---|---|
| Material | Steel Receiver, Octagonal Barrel, Walnut Stock |
| Manufacturing | Uberti (Italy) |
| Finish | Blued Steel, Color Case Hardened Receiver |
| Hardness/Quality | Modern firearm manufacturing standards, faithful to original design |
| Compatibility | .357 Magnum / .38 Special ammunition |
| Installation/Usage | Standard lever-action operation, requires FFL transfer |
| Weight | Approximately 7.5 lbs |
| Dimensions | Overall Length: 39 inches (20-inch barrel) |
| Country of Origin | Italy |
| Condition | New |
| SKU | 342200 |
| Capacity | 10+1 Rounds |
| Sights | Adjustable Rear, Fixed Front |
What makes the Uberti 1873 Special Sporting Short a good choice?
The Uberti 1873 Special Sporting Short in .357 Mag is a solid option for anyone looking for a classic lever-action. It’s a reproduction of the Winchester Model 1873, often called ‘The Gun That Won The West,’ and Uberti does a good job with the details. The color case hardened receiver gives it that old-school look, and the blued octagonal barrel is a nice touch. Chambered in .357 Magnum, it’ll also shoot .38 Special, which is handy for plinking or if you’re trying to keep ammunition costs down. The short sporting rifle configuration with a 20-inch barrel makes it maneuverable, whether you’re out in the field or just handling it at the range. It comes with a case, which is a practical bonus for transport and storage right out of the box.
The action is smooth, as you’d expect from a well-made lever gun. For cowboy action shooting or just enjoying a piece of history, this rifle handles well. The walnut stock feels good in the hands, and the fit and finish are generally what I’ve come to expect from Uberti. It’s not just a wall hanger; it’s a shooter that will hold up to regular use.
Who is this Uberti 1873 rifle for?
- Buy it if: You’re a cowboy action shooter looking for an authentic and reliable main match rifle.
- Buy it if: You appreciate historical firearms and want a functional reproduction of an iconic Old West lever gun.
- Buy it if: You’re a hunter looking for a compact, fast-handling brush gun for deer or hogs in appropriate calibers.
- Buy it if: You enjoy shooting .357 Magnum or .38 Special and want a rifle that pairs well with a revolver in the same caliber.
- Buy it if: You want a lever-action rifle that comes with a protective case for transport and storage.
- Skip it if: You need a rifle for long-range precision shooting (consider a modern bolt-action rifle).
- Skip it if: You’re on a very tight budget and just need a basic plinking rifle (see our rimfire rifles for alternatives).
- Skip it if: You prefer modern tactical features and optics compatibility (look at AR-platform rifles).
How does the Uberti 1873 compare to other lever-action rifles?
| Feature | Uberti 1873 Special Sporting Short (.357 Mag) | Rossi R92 (.357 Mag) | Winchester Model 1873 Short Rifle (.357 Mag) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Material | Blued Steel, Color Case Hardened Receiver, Walnut Stock | Blued Steel, Hardwood Stock | Blued Steel, Color Case Hardened Receiver, Grade I Walnut Stock |
| Quality | Good reproduction quality, authentic appearance, reliable action | Functional, utilitarian, good value | High-quality modern production, very faithful to original, excellent fit and finish |
| Compatibility | .357 Mag / .38 Spl | .357 Mag / .38 Spl | .357 Mag / .38 Spl |
| Shipping | Ships from Kansas Gunshop, Wichita, KS | Varies by retailer | Varies by retailer |
| Lifespan/Durability | Durable for regular use, proper care extends life | Good for its price point, generally reliable | Built to last generations with proper maintenance |
| Price | $1249.0 | ~$600-800 | ~$1500-1800+ |
When you’re looking at lever-action rifles, especially in .357 Mag, you’ve got a few options. The Uberti 1873 Special Sporting Short sits in a good spot. It’s a step up in historical accuracy and finish from something like a Rossi R92. The Rossi is a solid, no-frills workhorse, often at a lower price point, but it’s a reproduction of the Winchester 1892, which is a different design than the 1873. The Uberti gives you that true 1873 look and feel with the side loading gate and the toggle-link action, which is a big draw for historical enthusiasts and cowboy action shooters.
On the other end, you have the modern Winchester Model 1873 Short Rifle. These are generally going to be more expensive, often with slightly better fit and finish and sometimes more premium wood. However, the Uberti offers a very close experience for a noticeable price difference. For many, the Uberti hits the sweet spot between authentic reproduction, reliable performance, and cost, especially with the included case. If you’re comparing it to other Uberti models, the ‘Special Sporting Short’ refers to the 20-inch octagonal barrel and the specific finish, which is a popular configuration for both historical accuracy and practical handling.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Uberti 1873 Special Sporting Short
What is the effective range of a .357 Magnum lever-action rifle?
For hunting medium game like deer, a .357 Magnum lever-action is generally effective out to about 100-150 yards. For target shooting, you can certainly hit targets further out, but bullet drop becomes more significant. It’s a great cartridge for shorter to medium distances.
Can I shoot .38 Special ammunition in this rifle?
Yes, the Uberti 1873 Special Sporting Short chambered in .357 Magnum is designed to safely and reliably fire both .357 Magnum and .38 Special ammunition. This offers versatility for practice and reduced recoil options.
Is this rifle suitable for hunting in Kansas?
Yes, a .357 Magnum lever-action rifle is a legal and effective choice for hunting deer and other appropriate game in Kansas, especially in brushy areas or where shots are typically under 100 yards. Always check current Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism regulations for specific season rules.
What kind of maintenance does an Uberti 1873 require?
Like any firearm, regular cleaning and lubrication are important. Pay attention to the bore, chamber, and the moving parts of the lever action. The toggle-link action can accumulate fouling, so a good cleaning after each range trip or hunting excursion will keep it running smoothly. Consult the owner’s manual for detailed instructions.
Does this rifle come with a warranty?
Uberti typically offers a manufacturer’s warranty on their firearms. It’s best to check the specific warranty terms provided by Uberti or contact us for current details. We stand behind the products we sell and will assist with any warranty claims.
What is the difference between a ‘sporting short’ and other 1873 models?
The ‘Special Sporting Short’ typically refers to a specific configuration, often with a shorter barrel (like this 20-inch octagonal barrel) compared to longer rifle versions, and sometimes with particular finishes or sights that replicate a popular sporting configuration from the era. It’s a balance of historical accuracy and practical handling.
Where can I buy lever-action rifles online?
You can purchase lever-action rifles, including this Uberti 1873 Special Sporting Short, from licensed FFL dealers like Kansas Gunshop (kansas-gunshop.com). All firearms purchased online must be shipped to a local FFL dealer for transfer, in compliance with federal and state laws.
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About this review: As an FFL holder and owner of Kansas Gunshop, I’ve handled and processed transfers for countless firearms, including many Uberti reproductions. My aim is to provide practical, compliance-aware insights that serious gun owners value, drawing from years of experience in the firearms retail business and as an NRA Range Safety Officer. The information provided here is based on product specifications, general industry knowledge, and hands-on experience with similar models.
Last updated: April 2026
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