Stembridge Gun Rentals Winchester Model 1873 “Henry” Lever Action Rifle – Hollywood Modified Prop

Originally manufactured in 1890, this Winchester Model 1873 lever-action rifle was later transformed by Stembridge Gun Rentals, the iconic Hollywood armory, for use in film and television productions. To capture the appearance of the famed Henry rifle, Stembridge armorers removed the forearm and dust cover, added a sling loop to the left side of the barrel, and brass-plated the receiver to achieve a golden-toned finish that popped on screen.

This prop rifle also features a full-length blued magazine tube, blade front sight, and No. 24 notch rear sight (elevator absent). Authentic Stembridge “S” marking is stamped on the underside of the receiver, along with a small “5” on both the barrel and receiver top, linking it to the studio’s internal tracking system. The magazine tube band has been brazed, and the rifle is fitted with a replacement straight-grip walnut stock ending in a trapdoor crescent buttplate—a configuration frequently seen in Westerns filmed during the mid-20th century.

Retaining much of its brass plating and blue finish, this rifle stands as a genuine example of Hollywood’s craftsmanship—where historic firearms were re-imagined for the silver screen. It remains mechanically functional, ready for display in any serious movie or Winchester collection.

Provenance: The Jim Massaro Collection

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