As already mentioned, the Model 92 features a tang safety. The Model '73.... Uberti and Miroku-Winchester, do not. As far as fit, finish and mechanical reliability, in my opinion both are equal. This, based on firsthand experience with both brands(I own and compete...Cowboy Action.. with 1873 rifles.). The only advantage Uberti rifles presently have over their Winchester counterparts, is the availability of aftermarket competitive parts. Short-stroke kits, lighter springs, etc.
Competition parts for the Winchesters are slowly starting to appear, as the rifles become more popular in cowboy action shooting. But for now, Uberti is still king. So, if a person wants to run with the big dogs in the sport, I'd recommend Uberti. At least, for now. The Winchesters are slowly starting to catch up, as their popularity rises. That being said, there are some easy tweaks that can be done with the Miroku-Winchesters that do get them running pretty fast. I really like mine. My only beef, being the inability to slick them up to quite the same level as my Ubertis. Otherwise, they are great rifles. I would not hesitate to buy another.
The reddish hue to the varnish found on Uberti stocks, is the finish put on at the factory. I don't find it particularly objectionable. Stripping off the varnish and replacing it with an oil finish, is a pretty easy task. The Miroku-Winchester on the other hand, features an oil finished American walnut stock. The Winchester rifles are "prettier", if that is important to you. Either rifle handles the rough life of cowboy action shooting equally well.
I have no firsthand experience with Chiappa rifles. But, the Miroku-Winchester '92 is, in my view....an outstanding rifle. Fit, finish, function and reliability are all top notch. The aforementioned tang safety is an unobtrusive, shotgun-style slider button. I find it very easy to manipulate and don't mind it at all.
As for carbine/short rifle....which would I choose? Either will handle and shoot, equally well for cowboy action. Caliber choice is always a personal one. Either brand of rifle is available with several choices. But....one of these Model 1873 beauties in .357, is a great setup for the sport. Both Uberti/Winchester handle .38 Special easily.
Hope this helps.
Al
ps: It bears mentioning that the Miroku-Winchester rifle is very smooth functioning and capable of competitive use, right out of the box. The stock Uberti is generally pretty stiff(Very strong mainspring/lever/lifter springs) Which will require replacement before these rifles can meet their full potential. Something worth considering....for those shooters who want to compete, but lack the skill or knowledge to modify their own rifles. Or just want to get in the game.
Taylor's does offer a "Competition" model, which is already tuned for cowboy action. The price of these rifles reflects the extra work Taylor's puts into them. I prefer to start with a stock rifle, then customize it to my own taste. But, one of these(Taylor's) will work very well, otherwise.
