Make: Massachusetts Arms Co.

Model: 1873 No. 10 "Improved Mid-Range Target and Hunting Rifle"

Serial Number: 5422

Year of Manufacture: 1873-1890 / ATF Classification: Antique

Caliber/Gauge: .40-40, Black Powder Only

Action Type: Single Shot, break action

Barrel Length: 32"

Sights/Optics: The front sight is a flip-up beach sight dovetailed into the barrel. The rear sight is an adjustable elevation U-notch dovetailed into the barrel. There is an adjustable elevation aperture sight mounted to the upper tang.

Grip/Stock Configuration & Condition: The refinished wood stock has a straight wrist grip, straight comb, and a smooth metal buttplate. The wood shows moderate wear with scattered pressure dings, scuffs, and scratches. There are no chips or cracks. The LOP measures 13" from the face of the trigger to the rear of the butt. In this writer's opinion, the furniture rates in Very Good condition.

Type of Finish: Blue, Nickel

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is grey and the rifling is mostly sharp. There is mild erosion and pitting in the bore. In this writer's opinion, the bores rate 6.5/10.

Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 40% of its metal finish. Much of the finish has worn off or turned to patina. There is infrequent nickel, mostly on the lever and bottom tang. There are scratches and old freckling throughout. The screw heads range from light to moderately tooled with strong slots. The markings are clear and complete. Overall, this rifle rates in about Very Good condition as Antique.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this firearm. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None

Our Assessment: This rifle represents a distinctive example of late nineteenth century American target and sporting rifle design. Chambered in .40-40 and fitted with a long 32" barrel, it reflects the period emphasis on velocity consistency, sight radius, and deliberate accuracy for both target shooting and field use. Approximately 40% of the original finish remains, consistent with age and honest use.

Mechanically, the rifle remains sound. The bore rates 6.5 out of 10, showing moderate wear but retaining visible rifling and serviceable interior condition for a black powder era rifle. The action functions correctly, opening and closing smoothly with proper lockup, and continues to demonstrate the solid engineering that Massachusetts Arms Company was known for during this period.

This rifle is not equipped with the upgraded No. 10 furniture. It retains the standard stock configuration with no forend, which is correct for certain cataloged offerings and should not be mistaken as a missing component. This simpler furniture reflects a more utilitarian configuration while preserving the mechanical and functional characteristics of the No. 10 action.

Historically, the Model 1873 No. 10 occupies an important niche among American single shot target and hunting rifles, bridging the gap between formal match rifles and practical sporting arms. Massachusetts Arms Company rifles were respected for their quality and accuracy, and examples chambered in .40 caliber cartridges were popular for mid range work during the black powder era. With correct function, honest remaining finish, and an original standard configuration, this rifle stands as a compelling and authentic artifact of nineteenth century American firearms craftsmanship.