How effective is the .44-40 rifle?

[Bryan Austin]

In my research of firearms used by the invaders during the Johnson County, Wyoming war of 1892 there were sixteen 1873s, of which seven are carbines.  I have not completed the research through the Cody museum so there may be more.  Ten of those were .44 WCF, mostly carbines.  The other six were .38 WCF, again a mixture of carbines and rifles.

Most of the 1873's were carried by the mercenary Texans.   Most of the cattlemen and stock detectives preferred "big-bore" rifles, such as the 1876, 1886 and a few Sharps and Martini's.  I suspect the Texans bought their 1873's in Cheyenne when the posse was formed before heading north to Johnson County.  The cattlemen provided money to outfit the expedition.  Nine of the 1873's are late serial numbers in the 1890-91 date range.

I think its safe to say that in its time, the .44 WCF was considered an effective round.

Man that is great information!!  I have failed at locating the 44 WCF cases recovered from the Bighorn. Everywhere I call seems to know nothing about there location.