1873 Rebarreling

[warbucks16]

I recently came acrossed a Winchester 1873 Carbine that has been used for parts. All that remains is the Action, Barrel, Lever and hammer, no internal parts.

The barrel is a 32-20.  Could it be removed and a 44 barrel installed to build either a 44 Special or 44-40.

Thanks for any help.

Warbucks16

[Pettifogger]

Anything "could" be done.  The question is finding the parts and the cost.  The bolt and carrier on the .32-20 are different from the big bores.  However, since the internals are missing that doesn't make any difference and you can build it in any caliber you can find parts for.  Most of the time, building a parts gun into a shooter costs more than just finding a shootable original.

[Coffinmaker]

First, I agree with Pettifogger.  This could get expensive.  The other question is "why."  Why was the gun parted out.  I'd take a hard look at the receiver which may be junk and caused the parting out in the first place.  Lots of possibilities.

If everything looks "OK," then you can start to collet parts for an original.  I'd start with "Buckingham's."  The guy has just about everything for old "Winchester."  His number is 731 559 4169.

Speak with your Broker first.  It ain't gonna be cheap.

Coffinmaker

[Short Knife Johnson]

If you must have it built, I would have to recommend building it back into a .32-20 if the barrel is any good (or have it lined).  The magazine is of a different size.  The frame may also have to be altered for the hole for the tube magazine.  In the end, it may be cheaper to buy a shootable original.  That is the sad truth about such projects.  Hurts to say it.