Extended-case version of the .44-40 Winchester for single-shot rifles, offering additional powder capacity over the standard lever-action length.
Type: Rifle
Introduced: 1880, United States
Parent case: .44-40 Winchester
Standardization: None
Bullet diameter: 0.427" (10.85 mm)
Max pressure: 18,000 PSI
Rim type: Rimmed
Primer: Large Rifle
Typical twist rate: 1:36
Muzzle velocity: 1200–1400 fps
Muzzle energy: 639–944 ft-lbs
Effective range: 200 yd
Common bullet weights: 200, 217 gr
Primary use: hunting
Production status: Obsolete
Also known as: 44 WCF XL · .44-40 XL · .44 Winchester Extra Long
History: A black powder cartridge used in Winchester Model 1873 and Model 1876 lever-action rifles for hunting large game. The XL designation indicated an extra-long case with more powder capacity than the standard .44 WCF. Used on bison and large North American game before modern cartridges rendered it obsolete.