Lever-action rifles have been around since the 1800s, putting food on the table and serving in many conflicts over the last two centuries. At the time, they were a technological advancement that enabled faster shooting than was previously possible.
As the decades advanced, they were surpassed by semi-auto rifles and largely categorized as relics from a bygone era. Thankfully, these old-school cool rifles have seen a recent resurgence in interest, with manufacturers offering remakes of old models as well as updated tactical versions.
Whether that interest is generated by restrictive gun laws or nostalgia, we’re happy to see it. Hold onto your hat, partner; we’re going to show you some of the best lever-action rifles you can still buy today!
Editor's Note: This article was updated and rewritten in August 2024 with new picks and recommendations after our staff conducted extensive, hands-on testing at the range.
THE QUICK LIST
-
Best Classic Lever Action
-
Best Rimfire Lever Action
-
Best Tactical Lever Action
-
Best Hunting Lever Action
-
Best Modern Lever Action
Table of Contents
Loading…
How We Chose the Best Lever Action Rifles
This article is based on our experience with dozens of lever action rifles and thousands of rounds at the range. To choose, we pulled together a handful of lever-action models we felt were some of the most well-rounded available. Our criteria for selection included:
- Had to actually be available (not routinely out of stock or discontinued)
- Must reliably cycle with little to no malfunctions
- Hit the target from testing distances without issue
- Offer a good blend of features at a fair pricepoint
Hands-on testing was conducted at an outdoor range with a mix of ammo, including Remington Core Lokt, Federal American Eagle, Hornady Outfitter/Hornady Custom, and Sellier & Bellot. Some of the models that are personally owned have seen a wider selection of ammo and a higher round count.
We shot at distances between 25 and 100 yards based on function (hunting vs. recreational).
At the helm of the review were Wyatt Sloan and Sean Curtis — both of whom have extensive experience testing and reviewing lever action rifles.
Best Lever-Action Rifles
1. Winchester Model 1873 – Best Classic Lever Action
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
-
25% off all OAKLEY products - OAKLEY25
Copied! Visit Merchant
Pros
- Piece of history
- Collector's item
- Great shooter
Cons
- Expensive
Specs
- Caliber: .38/.357, 44-40 Win, 45 Colt
- Action: Lever
- Safety: Half-cock
- Weight: 7 lbs. 4 oz.
- Barrel Length: 20″
- Overall Length: 39″
There have been many lever-action rifles over the years, but few are as iconic as the Model 1873. Dubbed “The Gun That Won The West,” this firearm is a classic that has remained largely unchanged, and we wouldn’t have it any other way.
The Short Rifle we tested was chambered in .357/.38, and in either caliber, the gun was simply smooth. Beautiful walnut furniture pairs well with the case-hardened, black receiver, creating a piece that is both functional and easy on the eyes.
The loop lever is ovular and small, as it was originally designed. Despite this, it was easy to run, though loading the legend might cause a shooter to get their finger pinched in the gate if they don’t know how to stagger rounds and push them in.
The 7 lb. 4 oz. weight combined with the crescent buttplate helped tame recoil and made for fast follow-up shots. We found the Semi-Buckhorn rear and gold bead front sight intuitive and accurate.
Despite its age, the buttery smooth action had us emptying the 10-round tube magazine quickly, and we admire its effectiveness to this day.
2. Henry Classic Lever Action .22 – Best Rimfire Lever Action
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
-
25% off all OAKLEY products - OAKLEY25
Copied! Visit Merchant
Pros
- Affordable
- Lightweight
- Fun
- Great capacity
Cons
- Not tactical
Specs
- Caliber: .22 S/L/LR
- Action: Lever
- Safety: 1/4-cock
- Weight: 5 lbs. 4 oz.
- Barrel Length: 18.5″
- Overall Length: 36.5″
Henry is another name with a rich history in lever-action rifles. Benjamin Tyler Henry received his first patent for the Henry Rifle in 1860, and there have been many variations since.
The Classic Lever Action .22 is a wonderful combination of the best aspects of a lever gun and the soft-shooting rimfire cartridge. We tested a few models, such as Evil Roy and Golden Boy Youth, alongside the Classic Lever Action, and all were a blast.
For many young shooters, this was the next progression from a BB gun — a mark of responsibility achieved. The simple yet durable blued steel with American Walnut stock and forearm ensures the rifle will be around for many adventures.
Loading the tube magazine is as simple as removing the inner tube and dropping 15 rounds into the bullet-shaped hole. Lining up the hooded front blade in the adjustable rear sight was a snap.
We found ourselves firing away with a smile spreading across our faces before emptying the magazine. I only wish loading took as little time as shooting.
The action is smooth, and the small loop is big enough to fit three of my fingers, but it feels solid during cycling. Recoil is a distant memory as empty cans and bottles become wanted poster fugitives who refuse to go peacefully.
What do you think of the Henry? Rate it below!
3. Marlin Dark Series Model 1895 – Best Tactical Lever Action
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
-
25% off all OAKLEY products - OAKLEY25
Copied! Visit Merchant
Pros
- Full tactical features
- Smooth action
- Great trigger
Cons
- Loud
- No magazine cap/tube
Specs
- Caliber: 45-70 Govt
- Action: Lever
- Safety: Cross-bolt
- Weight: 7 lbs.
- Barrel Length: 16.17″
- Overall Length: 35.50″
Some recent tactical lever-action rifles have blended classic standards with a few modern amenities. Using no half-measures, the Dark Series Model 1895 pays homage to the Old West but boldly updates the lever gun with tactical features.
Replete with M-LOK, QD, and Picatinny rail, this rifle also has an adjustable cheek riser, a larger loop lever, a fiber optic (with tritium ring) front sight, and a ghost ring rear. Chambered in the hard-hitting .45-70 caliber, the 1895 Dark is surprisingly soft-shooting with assistance from the generous butt pad and muzzle brake.
The brake is removable from the 16.17-inch barrel, though, and reveals some 11/16-24 threads in case you want to install a suppressor. Either way, the recoil mitigation is impressive.
This allows shooters quicker follow-up shots, and you soon find yourself emptying the five-round, tubular magazine. Notably, there’s no cap, so loading takes place at the gate in the receiver.
Thankfully this is well done and doesn’t pinch the digits during loading. Cycling the lever, the action is smooth but also feels solid, with a super crisp trigger to cap off the process.
At seven pounds, the rifle is fairly light and leaves room to add your favorite accessories. With all the attachment points, you’ll have nothing but options in front of you.
Check out our in-depth review of the Marlin 1895 Dark Series!
4. Henry Long Ranger – Best Hunting Lever Action
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
-
25% off all OAKLEY products - OAKLEY25
Copied! Visit Merchant
Pros
- Detachable magazine
- Very accurate
- Fast reloads
- Optics ready
Cons
- Not tactical
Specs
- Caliber: .223 Rem/5.56 NATO, .243 Win, .308 Win, 6.5 Creedmoor
- Action: Lever
- Safety: Transfer bar
- Weight: 7 lbs.
- Barrel Length: 20″
- Overall Length: 40.5″
The Long Ranger cuts a unique distinction from the other lever guns on this list and even though it is marketed toward hunting, you can see the appeal. Henry combined the speed of the lever with a detachable magazine, making sure you get another shot at your game.
One of the best advantages of this design besides speed is the elimination of primer tickling in the traditional magazine tube. Pointed rounds stacked in a row have some explosive potential under recoil.
The model we tested for this review was chambered in .243, but the Long Ranger is also available in .308 and 6.5 Creedmoor with a 4-round capacity and .223 with a 5-round capacity. Releasing the magazine is as simple as pushing the button on the side of the receiver.
Henry beefed up the reliability with a 6-lug rotary head bolt that locks up nicely. And anyone having reservations about the accuracy of a lever-action rifle need not worry.
With a 20-inch free-floated barrel, our test rifle achieved sub-MOA groups after mounting a scope to the drilled and tapped receiver. Let’s just say if you miss, it probably isn’t the gun’s fault.
Shooting the Long Ranger, we noted the action was solid with no wiggle or play. It was also smooth and provided reliable feeding and ejecting.
Finally, with checkered American Walnut furniture and hard anodizing on the receiver, the Long Ranger has a clean, understated look that should hold up for years.
5. Smith & Wesson Model 1854 – Best Modern Lever Action
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
-
25% off all OAKLEY products - OAKLEY25
Copied! Visit Merchant
Pros
- Some tactical features
- Multiple finishes
- Durable feel
Cons
- Only two calibers
Specs
- Caliber: 45 Colt, .44 Magnum
- Action: Lever
- Safety: Cross-bolt
- Weight: 6 lbs. 12.8 oz.
- Barrel Length: 19.25″
- Overall Length: 36″
There is some very cool history and a lever-action Volcanic Pistol at the headwaters of the new Model 1854 from Smith & Wesson. Released at SHOT 2024, the rifle features some modern updates while paying homage to the original.
Available in walnut furniture with a blackened finish on the metal components, the 1854 strikes a very traditional look, though checkering on the grip and forearm is very grippy and functional. The model we tested came with a black and silver finish, and the furniture was made of polymer.
There are three different finishes in total, the final being a limited-edition burl walnut. In addition, the rifle is chambered in either .45 Colt or .44 Magnum.
Functionally, the 1854 benefits from an enlarged lever loop, a side gate, and a magazine tube plug. In addition, there’s a threaded muzzle and a strip of Picatinny rail along the receiver. The polymer furniture version has M-LOK slots at the three-, six-, and nine o’clock positions near the front of the forearm.
While the action was not as smooth as some of the other models we tested, it felt extremely durable. Another nice touch is the trigger has a flat bow with an indexing tip at the end.
Our test model was chambered in .44 Magnum, and the dense butt pad and grippy outer texture made it pretty soft shooting and easy to hang onto.
Honorable Mention
6. Henry X Model
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
-
25% off all OAKLEY products - OAKLEY25
Copied! Visit Merchant
Pros
- Good tactical features
- Many calibers available
- Aftermarket support
Cons
- Only comes in black
Specs
- Caliber: .45 Colt, .357/.38 Spl, .44 Mag/.44 Spl
- Action: Lever
- Safety: Transfer bar
- Weight: 7 lbs. 3 oz.
- Barrel Length: 17.4″
- Overall Length: 36.3″
Arguably one of the rifles that helped kick off the interest in tactical lever guns, the Henry X Model, was first teased at the NRA Annual Meeting in 2018. The blacked-out guns were a stark departure from an otherwise staid community.
Featuring fiber optic sights, a threaded muzzle, M-LOK, and even a Picatinny rail section on the bottom of the forearm, the series came chambered in several popular offerings: .357 Magnum, .44 Magnum, .45 Colt, .45-70, and even a .410 shotgun.
One of the coolest things these guns did was open the door to possibilities. While Henry did a great job of reimagining the lever gun with the Model X, there was even more to come.
Companies like Ranger Point Precision took the ball and ran, creating furniture and accessories to make the original tactical gun seem tame by comparison.
Why Trust Pew Pew Tactical
Input for this article and video came from Video Content Producer Sean Curtis and Jr. Editor Wyatt Sloan.
Sean’s background is in law enforcement, where he served for over two decades. During that time, he received continued training for his roles in SWAT and as a POST-certified handgun instructor. Since retiring, he has been certified through the USCCA as a rifle instructor. He has written about guns since 2014, working for numerous outlets, including Police1.com, Guns.com, American Survival Guide, Gun World Magazine, and the Glock Annual. Sean has written about lever action guns previously for Pew Pew Tactical with reviews on the Heritage Settler and POF Tombstone.
Wyatt has been involved in shooting sports for over two decades as an avid hunter, USPSA competitor, and recreational shooter. He is an NRA-certified handgun instructor as well as a USCCA rifle instructor. With over 200 guns in his personal collection, including various lever action rifles, and 10 years of experience in home-based FFL sales, Wyatt uses his experiences to evaluate and test based on PPT’s standards.
Our team is led by Editor-in-Chief Jacki Billings, who is a member of the Society of Professional Journalists, ACES: Society for Editing, and the Professional Outdoor Media Association. Jacki has her bachelor’s degree in Journalism and has worked as a media professional for close to 20 years, specializing in gun media for almost 10 years. She uses her extensive professional journalism and editing experience to set testing protocols and editorial standards for Pew Pew Tactical.
Final Verdict
The lever-action rifle is steeped in history, but with a recent renewal in interest, it’s evolving into something different for modern enthusiasts. This list has options ranging from The Lone Ranger to The Terminator, with a few even bridging the two worlds.
Whether you’re a collector, history buff, purist, hunter, or weekend tactician, there is probably a lever gun out there for you. Thankfully, all the guns on this list are still available to buy, so there’s no good reason to miss out on the fun.
Will you be picking up a lever-gun at the General Store? Let us know in the comments below. For even more western goodness, mosey on over to Best Modern & Classic Cowboy Guns!
83 Leave a Reply
I only have 2 levers left a Winchester 1984 built in 1897 in 25-35 and a Savage 1899 built in 1907 in 25-35 the savage was my first hunting that my grandad gave and I used it starting the first year I could hunt 1962. they are both great rifles. I bought my wife a Henry 357/38 brass receiver. Levers are great and they are accurate. I take them out every so often, but with the value so high now they don't go in the woods anymore.
Steve, those sound great, what a legacy! Thanks for sharing.
Browning BLR
Lawrence, we have much love for the BLR around here. The pistol grip models are probably the most elegant lever gun I have personally laid hands on. However, they are getting tough to find and getting really expensive when they do come around. The Long ranger is a bit more stripped down, but it just barely made the cut over the BLR due to the excellent trigger and accuracy for the price.
All fine rifles, but I can’t imagine the Browning BLR not on this list in some capacity. The BLR is a fine lever gun.
Norm, it was a really tough cut from the list. I love magazine-fed lever action rifles, and the BLR is the best-feeling in hand - especially the pistol grip models. However, in recent years I have struggled to find them in stock (especially in the calibers I want) consistently, and the prices have risen. While the Long Ranger isn't as elegant, it edged out the BLR for me due to the much better trigger and 3/4 MOA accuracy I was able to achieve with off-the-shelf ammo.
I have a stainless Marlin Guide Gun 45-70 (not a Remlin), that I bought without ported barrel. I don't mind the recoil but don't want the muzzle blast of porting. I'm 77 yrs and want to save my hearing. The factory butt pad was ok when standing even with hot loads, but on the bench over front and rear bags was another matter. I had a gunsmith put a grind to fit Limbsaver pad on it.
The little gun still bucks but doesn't hurt anymore even with the same loads, front and rear rest in a T-shirt. The little Marlin 45-70 is my favorite long gun and cartridge combo.
No discussion on the Savage 99? For shame; love the 336 in .35 Remington or 30-30 but the Savage is more accurate. The .300 Savage can take a whitetail in a lighter load or a moose in 180 grain load.
Any opinion about the Rossi R92? Some online reviews seem very positive especially the price.
I have four - .45 Colt, another .45 Colt but SS carbine, .44 Mag/.44 Spl, and a .357/.38 Spl. All are well made with good fitment and workmanship, they’re dependable, accurate, and priced well below the picks for this article. I have no regrets and consider them good buys. I would encourage anyone considering a pistol caliber lever action to check the Rossi’s out. BTW, Rossi has just come out with a .30-.30 as well if that caliber is your huckleberry.
I've got the Winchester 94 that my dad was given on his 13th birthday back in 1954. Chambered in .32 WinSpec it is hands down my favorite firearm.
I also inherited my grandfather's Savage 99. Another fun rifle and I'm kind of surprised no mention of it here.
I too wonder why the lever action rifles are so expensive.
For us uninformed. Why are lever guns so expensive?
No Spencers (yes, they were lever actions)
No Winchester 1886 Lever Action - probably the best mass produced "big cartridge" lever gun
If the 1892 is the "best" cowboy gun when it comes to rifles, why do most cowboy shooters use the 1873?? Also, you fail to mention Uberti, whom probably outsells all of your "big 3" when it comes to pistol ammo rifles.
1873 action can be altered to allow short stroking the lever hence faster on repeat shots. 1892 can't be short stroked. The 1892 though is considerably stronger.
For a lever-hammer, the 7-30 waters was the most practical modern cartridge. And should be given a second chance. With low recoil, high velocity, (2600-2700 ) And 7mm. for the young to old shooter's what's not to like.? As for the 45-70, Who wants that recoil, I don't understand it's hype,
Ask the Guides in Alaska why many of them like the lever guns in 45-70 and other heavy calibers in big bear
Country.
Some people take Winchester and Marlin lever guns in 45-70 to Africa and kill everything that walks the planet. Some 45-70 loads will drive through a rhino end to end exiting on the far side.
I love the 45-70 Marlin. It's not everyone's piece of cake.
The 45-70 was first issued to the US Army in 1873 in the "Trap door" Springfield and has made the successful transition to smokeless powder. Not too shabby for an old fart cartridge with hotter loads in modern guns. For some of us, that is also part of the apeal. Have a great day.
When you've tried the rest, try the best- a BLR in .308- all the lever you will ever need.
B 4 I buy there is a couple of Marlin .22's 39 M the original one is a straight grip the other is a pistol grip, both have scopes, one is a 20" the other is a 22" they are both about 85%% grade, the dealer wants $750. for either one, is it a bit pricy?? One is a '81 the other is in the 70's (late I believe) will look at it again to look for a JM and pre - Remington era or other fly by night outfits. :( thank you
I have a Ruger #1, 270 Win Standard rifle (200th yr of American Liberty) that's a tack driver w factory ammo and one of my favorites. I have bolts and semi's including AR's. I have to say my favorite long gun/cartridge combo is my Marlin (before Rem) 1895 Guide Gun 47-70. It bucks but is fast and accurate. I never have to look for the sights. The sights are always where they need to be when it comes to the shoulder from whatever carry position. I put a Merrit adjustable aperture sight on the rear and a white line on the front. My old fart eyes (76yrs) love that Merrit aperture on the receiver. I don't like a scope on my Marlin.
I have a 100 year anniversary Win 94. I find it crazy how much these lever guns have increased in price with recent years. These used to be inexpensive hunting rifles. Now they have tripled in price.
As I am left handed lever action rifles have been my choice for centerfire and rimfire at reasonable prices. I have owned and used a Win 94, a Marlin 36, Savage 99 and a Win 88...but for me the most accurate lever I have owned and used for deer is the Sako Finnwolf. This has been my go to deer rifle since 1973. As for rimfire, I will put my Win 9422 against any other lever .22 for quality of wood, metal to wood fit, finish and accuracy.
I inherited a Savage Model 99 in 300 savage some years ago and I love this gun. I have shot several Marlin, Henry and Winchester levers and none of them fit me as well or shot as accurately as my 99.
Best lever EVER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Marlin 336 in 30-30 with a HolosunC. Best brush gun ever! Used in Northeast Florida for hog hunting. Very fast to the shoulder and the red dot is perfect for lowlight Dawn and dusk.
My Winchester Model 71 is a beast.
Nice mention of the premium brands. I have two Rossi Lever actions in .22LR and .357/.38SPL. Both are solid and beautifully made firearms.
I concur on the Rossi. I have four: one in .38 Spl/.357, two in .45 Colt (one of which is the carbine), and one in .44Spl/.44Mag. They are all well made, fit of wood to metal is superb, they are reliable, and they all shoot accurately. Rossi doesn’t get the love it deserves.
No Browning BLR?
How in the world could the Marlin 39a
Not make....or top this list?
The oldest and longest continually produced rifle in the World!
I seen one the rifles that you talked didn't have no papers or and other assocaries (Sp) does that mean the government wouldn't have no records on it if I purchased from you.?
Winchester’94… cowboy assault rifle…
My first rifle right out of hunters safety class was a marlin lever 30-30. Don't remember the model. I sold it right after high school for $75. What an idiot I was!!
Thank you for the memories!
I am stunned! You gents ever hear of a Browning BLR ..? Best Northeast deer rifle you can buy..in almost any caliber ! And in a stainless take down model! Im surprised ....should be top 3 !
Thank you Mr. Coyle......I am 68 years old, been around firearms all my life, even had a Winchester 94 in .30-.30 when I was in high school, but I can't recall ever hearing about or seeing a Browning lever action......I will investigate this, as my next firearm (I hope) will be the lever action probably chambered in 357.....can't afford to shoot 45-70 anymore......Jeez
Randy in Venice, Fl
You wont be disappointed.fantastic firearm .love mine in.308.take down model fits in my overnight pack when im hunting in PA..!
Ot could be argued that the Lever Action Rifles and Carbines were the Assault Rifles of the era. Fast Follow Up shots, a variety of calibers, and high capacity tubular magazines (for their time) compared to any Civilian or Military Firearm contemporary to the time. Lever Actions "scream" Wild West, even when furnitured with more modern polymers. They recall episodes of the Rifleman, John Wayne,and the countless "B" Westerns Hollywood churned out in the 30s and 40s. No other Rifle has that distinct "Americana" look, that even folks unfamiliar with guns recognize.
As the proud owner of an inherited near mint condition 1952 production Winchester Model 1894, it's the star of my modest collection.
Even though a decline in health forced me to give up Hunting, I still enjoy taking my Dad's first rifle out and running it through its paces. I took my first Spike Elk with that gun in 1974. Even though the .30 WCF isn't the most appropriate caliber for Elk, in thick timber, at 70 paces, a heart shot ensured that bull dropped within a few yards from where I hit him.
Thank You Todd and PewPew. This article brought back some fond memories of simpler times, and fine examples of Firearms Evolution.
I'll take a Marlin 1894 in .357 mag if Ruger will ever get them out the door. Probably wait six months or a year after release and let other customers deal with the teething problems. Pair that with a Ruger GP100 Model #1771 with 7-round capacity and you would be pretty well-armed if you live behind the tofu curtain.
My favorite gun (out of hundreds of pistols, revolvers, rifles, and shotguns) is the Marlin 39A 22 lr lever rifle.
I have the Browning 45-70 falling block and the marlin guide gun. I am skinny 60+ year old dude and I love to shoot both. When you put 40 rounds down range, you know that you are firing a great fierarm. It does get expensive, but worth it. I like them more that an M-60
Why are the Rossi 92’s left out. Granted, they are not collectibles but they are sturdy and practical. I’ve got a Rossi ‘92 in .44 Mag/.44 Spl, two in .45 Colt (one blued with a .20 in barrel and one SS carbine with .16 in barrel), and one in .357/.38 Spl. All are very good shooters and have been very dependable. Having said that, I DO have two Henry’s, one .22 and the other is a Big Boy in .327 Federal Magnum. The .327 is a real sweetheart and I love it. If it could cook I’d marry it.
The modern day Henry USA, has no association whatsoever to the original Henry rifle of 1860 or the inventor Benjamin Tyler Henry. Kind of misleading in your article. All they share is the name “Henry” cause the rights to the name were bought. Just like todays Springfield Armory, has no connection at all to the actual real Springfield Armory formed in 1780s, though Springfield always tries to falsely claim that they are one and the same.
I have find lever action rifles. Mod. 94 .30-30 Winchester, Savage .22 high power, Henry .22 cal. Golden Boy, Henry .117 HMR Golden Boy, and a Henry .22 LR. Of all of them I like the 30-30 best for hunting.
For plinking and small game I love the Henrys. It is the sweetest shooting .22 I have fired. The action is
extremely smooth and with practice you can cycle of with it still at the shoulder. I have not had too
much problem with the big plate slipping.
Glad to se the trend in Cowboy Tactical Rifles. I have a Model 92 in 44mag - 16" barrel with three-dot fiber-optic sights and it's great fun to shoot fast.
I had a Marlin lever action 22 Mag. with a 20 deg. lever action which could be used without taking it from your shoulder and the rifleing was micro groove, that I purchased in the 60's. It was a very accurate gun. You cannot buy any parts for it because in in not made any more. The fireing pin broke and the gun smith had to make one to fix it. They should bring that gun back it was great.
I have an early .303 (no typo) Savage which I still use for island blacktail hunting in BC, Canada. The brass rotary magazine is a thing of beauty...
Interesting to know. I have a Savage 22 high power, ammo is hard to find, I have taken
mule tail dear with it. I have not gone after any thing bogger. The.303 sounds like you could
bring down moose. As you said the rotary magazine is great. Wish more manufacturers
would adopt such a magazine. Good hunting.
Ammo is no longer available for the .303 Savage (I have the dies and a reload buddy), but you are right about the knock down power. I have also used it for spring bear, with good results.
Savage developed their .303 in 1894. It fires a .308 diameter bullet as opposed to the British .312. Ballistically, it was slightly superior to the .30WCF. Especially with the factory 190 grain bullets.
Dont mean to be critical, but you obviously dont shoot lever guns much. No one who knows proper technique with lever guns dismounts the weapon when they work the action (finger lever). Neither should you dismount a bolt gun if you need to make a quick follow up shot. Just sayin'. Dont trust me - ask a CAS shooter.
The correct answer is (All JM stamped, that's a very important caveat)
Marlin 1894
Marlin 1895
Marlin 336
Marlin 36
.... then the Ruger
.... then the Henrys
.... then the Winchesters
spot on sir
yes sir
My father-in-law has a few Henry’s and they just didn’t fit my body very well. I haven’t had the opportunity to shoot any others mentioned. I am left handed but I don’t think that was the issue. The cheek weld was off and the stock was really long. I am primarily a military shooter so I like to be up close. Great article as always.
For me it isn't the cost of the gun, it's the cost of the ammo. Some of those rounds are $3+ a shot; no thanks.
My truck gun is a saddle ring carbine marlin 1894 in 44 mag. I threw a red dot on it and handload for it. I've got a sling that utilizes the saddle ring. It's accurate and hard hitting. I carry it with me in the vehicle because it would serve well enough in a bad situation, but it's also not a rifle that raises eyebrows. People love talking about it if they catch a glimpse of it. I've also got a pre 64 winchester 3030 that drives tacks, and a winchester 9422. My grandpa only used savage 99 in 300 savage and I subsequently bought, refinished, and sold one. I finally picked up a six gun recently to compliment my arsenal.
The Miroku built Winchester and Browning models 1886 and 71 rifles are better than many that appear on this list. The '86 extra light definitely offers more kick for the buck than virtually anything on the list., but the shotgun stye buttstock helps to mitigate the discomfort.
Always had a soft spot for classic lever guns. Over the years, I've also aquired some nice bolt actions, but I'll never forsake my lever guns. My first new deer gun was a meat & potatoes model 94 in 30-30 topped with a Weaver 4X. A couple years later, I got a 94 XTR in .375 big bore. Followed by a Browning BLR in .308 and a Marlin 1894P 16 1/4" barrel in .44 mag. My very first "real" gun was an Ithaca model 49R .22 lever. Still have it. Along the way, I traded away a Savage 99CD in .308, a move that I will always regret. I still shoot these guns at the range and occasionally in the hunting woods. I'm pushing 70 now, but if I could, I'd take them with me when I die. Good shooting, everybody!
Looking to buy a lever cation rifle in .243 caliber for Hog hunting . Witch is better Browning BLR or Henery Long Ranger.
I used to to hogs with a BLR LWT in .308. Loved it. Killed several hogs with it and it was a tack driver with 150 grain Remington Cor-Lokts. Super easy to carry and that's important. You'll carry it more than shoot it. Sadly it was stolen! Only thing I didn't like, it had a heavy trigger. I've only owned rimfire Henrys, loved them to, very smooth actions. Looking to purchase a side gate Henry.
If you are still looking- BLR hands down get the BLR. You won't be sorry.
Best explanation as to what the history and use of rifles I've seen. When investigators g in rifles, this is a great example for those of us who want to buy rifles that will hold or increase in value.
Now, if you can only find any of these, you are lucky.
You forgot two, the lever action Winchester 94 357 and 44 mag.
I bought a Henry Big Boy in 357/38. If loading the tube with round nose 38's, you couldn't put the tube down w/out it hanging on the bullets and making the lever come out of battery. Then it wouldn't chamber the rounds. If would damage the bullets if you tried too hard. And if that isn't enough, slowly cocking the rifle would cause it to lock up about every 15 cocks and almost impossible to get unlocked without great force. I'll never buy another Henry.
Sounds like you found a terd ... I have 5 or so of their rifles ranging from 41mag , to a 45-70 , 22 mag , 22 lr and 44 mag . Never had any issues from any of mine . Of my collection , my terd lever gun is my marlin 1895 stainless guide gun in 45-70 made around 2008 , the same gun so many swear by . Moral of the story. Talk to henry , let them fix it and enjoy , you can get a terd regardless of brand , action or caliber .
User error.....
Great work as usual but just a historical correction. The rifles the Confederates complained about were the Spencer Carbine. They loaded 7 shots, unlike the Sharps. Had Buford’s Calvary not had them and not been able to hold off Heth’s Infantry Division for some three hours, Gettysburg would have turned out differently because the Confederates would have been able to advance to Cemetery Ridge and the surrounding high ground.
Henry 22, 94 in 30-30, Marlin in .357. My eyes are on a BL-22. I had the Marlin at an indoor range shooting at 25yds at my leisure. Folks a couple of lanes down were spraying their tactical rifles all over the paper...then remarked at the ragged holes the 'old-school' guy was making.
Always wanted a lever rifle since "The Rifleman". Never got one like Lucas McCain but got a 1894 model .32 Winchester Special made in 1956. Ammo is expensive so don't shoot it as much as my AR but going to keep it and pass it on.
I have a Henry steel 22 mag lever action. My next purchase will be either a Marlin in 38/357 or a Henry steel in 38/357 to compliment my Colt SAA in 357.
Maybe did not fail fifth grade English, just missed one on the test..
Became a writer by writing.
What is the particular error that got your OCD's all twisted up?
Alan
I also have a Smith 66 and complemented mine today with a Henry Bigboy Steel in .38/.357. Great minds think a like. You won't be disappointed.
My first rifle was a 94 Winchester. 30-30. Circa 1930. Purchased it in 1968 for $30. Killed several deer with it and still use it. Also have a Savage 99 300 Savage circa 1960. Love them both. On my list is a Henry .38/.357 to complement my S&W 66.
I bought a marlin 45.70 at a rod and gun club in Hanau Germany when I was serving there. It was amazing. I had six power Dr Optics on it and loved going to the German outdoor range and put five rounds through a single hole consistently at a hundred with factory Remington ammo. From a sand bag it was like a laser. But with a rainbow trajectory. Spencer converted a bunch of their .56 caliber butt loads to .45-70. My gramps had one but it stripped the lever. My dads first white tail was with a 250-3000 and he still has it. He also has a safari browning in .458. He doesn’t shoot it often.
I have killed a few pigs and deer over the years with a Marlin lever action. Both a .44 Mag with open sights and a .357 Mag with a scope on a raised mount to clear the factory sights. Great way to spend an afternoon in a tree and get some meat with 30yd shots.
Love both those rifles.
I hunt with a Marlin 336 chambered in .35 Remington. With a 2.5 power scope, it's about ideal for the Missouri woods. The .35 Remington is a little heavier and a little slower than the .30-30 with typical loads. I've never had a deer run after getting hit with one.
YOU KEFT OUT THE 1886 wIN AND THE 1892 wIN I have an 1886 45=70 and 1892 Win carbine in 25-20 and
would not take anything for them .
I too learned to hunt with the Winchester 94 in 30-30. You hit it right on when you wrote we had to get close and stay low. With iron sights and the absolute focus on a clean and ethical kill, I really had to hone my skills. This gun taught me more about hunting than most any other source. Many a deer and coyotes have been taking with this gun andit still shoots straight and never experienced a failure (even with my early years of neglecting it). Great article. I would love to have a Marlin in the 45-70.
My first lever action I got for my 18th birthday. A pre-64 Winchester 94 in 30-30 that I got for $450. The gun shop didn't realize they could have listed it for 3 times that price, so I was more than happy with it.
Unfortunately, you left out what many consider "The Best of the Breed". Browning BLR and BLR 81 solve all the problems of tubular magazines with a drop box mag and in my humble opinion, the best feature of all - the take-down model for easy transport and cleaning. Wide variety of calibers and barrel lengths to suit the caliber, walnut or laminated, blue or stainless, pistol grip or straight stock. Priced to compete with the other crank actions and available in the best woods caliber of all - 358 Win.
Balthazar,
You're absolutely right! The BLR's are great options. The take-down versions make for compact travel rifles and the magazines allow use of "pointy" bullets. I've had the opportunity to use a BLR in both 243 and 308 in years past. Fine firearms to be sure.
Thanks for reminding us about the Brownings!
I bought my first lever action rifle when I was 13 years old (47 years ago). It was a used Mossberg .22 with a low power 3x scope. I remember I paid $13.50 and had to have a gunsmith repair the firing pin before I could shoot it. Last week I purchased a new "single shot" Henry in .223 / 5,56. I always wanted a Henry but decided on a single shot for target practice. I'd love to try a 45/70 but I'm not sure my 60 year old shoulder could take the recoil.