Fredericksburg, Texas–December 2024 – Cimarron Firearms, the premier name in authentic Old West firearm replicas, pays its respects to another colorful hero of the storied Texas Rangers. The new Nueces ’73 Rifle pays tribute to Captain Leander H. McNelly.
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Born in what is now West Virginia, his family moved to Texas when he was a consumptive child with the hopes the climate would help his health. McNelly thrived on his family’s farm, and in 1861 when the Civil War broke out, he joined up, getting his commission in 1863. McNelly served the length of the war, and his unit was one of the last to disband in 1865.
In 1870, then Governor Edmond Davis organized the Texas State Police, of which, McNelly was named one of the four captains. The short-lived law enforcement unit was abolished in 1873 after allegations of embezzlement, harassing voters, and killing a few prisoners. Then, the very next year, the new governor, Richard Coke created two branches within the Texas Rangers, a Frontier Battalion and the “Special Force.”
McNelly commanded the Special Force, a group of law enforcement financed by the area cattle ranchers to protect the land and cattle. McNelly was assigned the embattled Nueces Strip, a large swath of land on the Rio Grande frontier. McNelly handpicked his men and the group became known as “Little McNelly” for their loyalty to their commander. McNelly brought his form of justice to the area, although he was known to disobey his superiors, and several times entered Mexico trailing the bandits, and successfully returning stolen cattle.
In honor of one of the Texas Rangers’ finest, Cimarron’s expert reproduction Winchester 1873 lever action Nueces rifle features a specially designed 24.25” heavy round barrel chambered in 45LC and stamped with a “T * S” – the same stamp used on rifles issued to the Texas Rangers.
The rifle’s beautifully finished hand-rubbed oil walnut stock and forend, along with the classic old metal finish make the Nueces ’73 rifle an heirloom to cherish for years to come. The Nueces rifle has an MSRP of $1768.88 and can be ordered online and sent to your local dealer.
For more information on Cimarron Firearms and accessories, visit www.cimarron-firearms.com.
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About Cimarron Firearms
Cimarron is the leader in the quality and authenticity of replica firearms. For the past 40 years, Cimarron has worked continuously to perfect the authentic detail, fit, finish, and function of our line of frontier firearms. There is no other firearm that is nearly equal in value, strength, reliability, and authentic detail as is the line from Cimarron Firearms Co.
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