Before getting to the specifications on the Rossi Ranch Hand pistol, there are two noteworthy bits of information I would like to share with you.
The first thing I would like to do is clear up any confusion on whether the Rossi Ranch Hand pistol is actually a pistol, as its name suggest, or a rifle. Though the original Mare's Leg, the rifle after which the Rossi Ranch hand pistol is modeled, was a shortened Winchester Model 1892, the Ranch Hand is actually a pistol. Because the Ranch Hand is manufactured and sold as a pistol rather than a short-barreled rifle, its 12-inch barrel is in compliance with all federal regulations. As such, ownership does not require federal registration; approval from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives or a $200 tax stamp. So buy away!
The next thing I would like to do is offer you a short bit of information regarding the origin of the Rossi Ranch Hand pistol. A short while ago, I mentioned the term "Hollywood set piece" and "Mare's Leg." The Rossi Ranch Hand pistol is actually a replica of the Mare's Leg, a rifle created solely for use in the 1958 television series "Wanted: Dead or Alive." The series starred Steve McQueen as Josh Randall, the kind-hearted Civil War veteran turned bounty hunter. The true star of the series, however, was Randall's sidearm of choice – a modified Winchester Model 1892 chambered in .44-40. This modified firearm, known as the Mare's Leg, was concealable in a leg holster and easily drawn for taking out ne'er-do-wells with lightning speed. The Rossi Ranch Hand pistol is a fully-functional replica of that firearm. The major difference is that the Ranch Hand, as noted, is manufactured and sold as a pistol. It is not a shortened rifle.
Finally, I would like to give you some specs on the Rossi Ranch Hand pistol – just in case I have yet to seal the deal. The Rossi Ranch Hand pistol is a newly manufactured pistol modeled after a shortened Winchester Model 1892. Featuring a smooth lever action, the Ranch Hand has a button-rifled, 12-inch barrel and an overall length of 23.75 inches. It weighs in at just over 4 pounds. The weight, alongside the oversized lever loop makes handling this pistol very manageable. Chambered in .44 Magnum, it has a tubular magazine with a 6-shot capacity. The combination of walnut furniture and a blued finish gives the pistol an alluring look. Finally, taking aim is quite simple with the gold bead front sight and the adjustable buckhorn rear sight.
Buy the Rossi Ranch Hand pistol because you want to add to your collection. Buy it because you love Steve McQueen. Whatever your reason, just buy it.
