This Third Model carbine was manufactured in 1896 and is chambered for the scarce 38-40 caliber which was first offered in 1879. The top of the barrel ahead of the rear sight is marked with the two line address/King's improvement patent dates and "38 W.C.F." at the breech. The upper tang is marked "MODEL 1873" flanked by a decorative foliate design, and the serial number is marked on the lower tang. It is fitted with a blade front sight and folding ladder rear sight graduated to 900 yards. Integral dust cover rail, saddle ring and staple on the left side of the receiver and mounted on a smooth walnut forearm and straight grip stock with a carbine buttplate with a compartment containing a three piece cleaning rod.
Poor as refinished. The barrel has a brown patina that lightens behind the barrel band and a mixture of gray and brown patina on the frame and lever. The buttplate has a smooth brown patina with some wear on the upper edge. There are some small dings and various light scratches over all as well as some areas of light pitting. The buttplate door and elevator have aged patinas with a darker tone to the door and a a brighter golden tone on the elevator. All visible markings are legible but most are partially faded. The refinished wood is poor with some variance in tones, scattered minor scratches, a few small pressure dents, a repaired crack running the length of the forearm, and a sliver absent on the right front of the stock at the junction with the frame. Mechanically fine.
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