A new Miroku 1873

[BikerTom]

It has a rotating "hook"/"latch" just behind the lever.  None of my other lever actions have that.  I know what it does, but why's it necessary?

[Abilene]

Well, I guess the Winchester designers wanted it there!   

All '73's and '76's have it.

[LB001]

It keeps the lever locked in a closed position, as might be necessary when riding a horse.

[BikerTom]

Well, I guess the Winchester designers wanted it there!   

All '73's and '76's have it.

I was hoping that was the case.  Authenticity, and all.  Even though mine is a repro, obviously. 

Thanks.

[BikerTom]

..... as might be necessary when riding a horse.

I never would have guessed that.

Thanks.

[cpt dan blodgett]

My uberti henry has the lever locking tingmabob or is it thingmajig as well.

[Buffalo Creek Law Dog]

I read that on the early originals the lever would not stay in the closed position.  It would hang down when carried laterally, so they put a  gizmo on there to hold it closed until ready to fire.