The Winchester 1892 Mare's Leg .44-40 is more than just a firearm; it's a piece of Americana, a symbol of the Wild West, and a highly sought-after collectible. Its distinctive shortened lever-action design, chambered in the classic .44-40 cartridge, has captivated enthusiasts for decades. This guide dives deep into the history, features, variations, and practical considerations of this iconic firearm.
A Brief History of the Mare's Leg
The "Mare's Leg" wasn't a standard Winchester factory model. It was originally created by modifying existing Winchester 1892 rifles, specifically cutting down the barrel and stock to create a more compact and maneuverable weapon. This customization was popularized in the 1950s and 60s, largely thanks to its prominent appearances in television and film, most notably in the hands of the iconic character Paladin, played by William Conrad, in the series Have Gun – Will Travel. This exposure cemented its place in pop culture and significantly increased its desirability. While not an official Winchester product initially, the demand eventually led to various manufacturers offering their own versions and replicas of the Mare's Leg.
Key Features and Specifications
The Mare's Leg, in its various iterations, generally shares these key characteristics:
- Shortened Barrel: A significantly shortened barrel compared to the standard Winchester 1892 rifle, typically ranging from 16 to 20 inches. This reduction contributes to its compact size and ease of handling.
- Pistol Grip Stock: A pistol grip stock is a defining feature, allowing for a more secure and comfortable grip during use.
- .44-40 Caliber: Originally chambered in the versatile and readily available .44-40 Winchester cartridge, known for its relatively mild recoil and decent stopping power for its time.
- Lever-Action Mechanism: The classic lever-action mechanism remains a hallmark, providing quick and reliable operation.
Variations and Manufacturers
While the original Mare's Legs were custom modifications, many manufacturers now produce replicas and variations. These can differ slightly in materials, finishes, and overall accuracy. Some notable manufacturers include (but are not limited to):
- Uberti: Known for producing high-quality replicas of classic firearms.
- Winchester (Modern): Winchester itself has released modern iterations inspired by the original Mare's Leg. These may incorporate updated manufacturing techniques and materials.
- Other Custom Gunsmiths: Many custom gunsmiths still build and modify Winchester 1892 rifles to create Mare's Leg configurations.
Practical Considerations and Use
The Winchester 1892 Mare's Leg, while visually striking and historically significant, presents some practical considerations:
- Accuracy: The shortened barrel can affect accuracy at longer ranges compared to a full-length rifle.
- Recoil: While the .44-40 is relatively mild, the shorter barrel can slightly increase felt recoil.
- Concealability: Its compact size does make it relatively concealable compared to a full-sized rifle, although this depends heavily on the individual and the method of carry.
- Modern Applications: While not suitable for modern military or law enforcement applications, it can be used for target shooting, Cowboy Action Shooting, and collecting.
Collecting and Value
The Winchester 1892 Mare's Leg holds significant collector value, particularly original modified examples and those with strong provenance. The value varies greatly depending on condition, manufacturer, and any unique features. Researching specific models and consulting with firearms appraisers can help determine the value of a particular Mare's Leg.
Conclusion
The Winchester 1892 Mare's Leg is an iconic firearm with a rich history and enduring appeal. Understanding its origins, features, and practical considerations is crucial for both collectors and those simply fascinated by this legendary piece of firearm history. Whether you appreciate its historical significance, its place in pop culture, or its unique characteristics, the Mare's Leg remains a captivating and sought-after firearm.
