Documented Stembridge Gun Rentals Winchester Model 1873 “Henry” Rifle with Certificate of Authenticity

This Winchester Model 1873 lever-action rifle, originally manufactured in 1882, was later modified by Stembridge Gun Rentals, Inc., Hollywood’s most renowned prop gun company, for use in film and television productions. To emulate the look of a Henry rifle, Stembridge technicians removed the forearm and dust cover, then applied nickel plating to the barrel and magazine tube, and brass plating to the receiver and buttplate—achieving the iconic golden-frontier look familiar from countless Westerns.

This particular rifle is accompanied by its Stembridge Certificate of Authenticity, signed by Sydney R. Stembridge, confirming use in multiple movie and television productions by assorted actors. The rifle bears a partial serial number “84068” on the barrel and retains faint traces of Winchester factory markings. The barrel and receiver are brazed together on top, a hallmark of Stembridge’s durable prop conversions.

Fitted with a blade front sight and smooth straight-grip walnut stock with a trapdoor crescent buttplate, this example represents a true piece of Hollywood heritage—one that bridged the line between the American frontier and the silver screen.

Provenance: The Jim Massaro Collection

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