best lever action

In the realm of firearms, lever actions stand out as a testament to classic design and enduring functionality. Their distinctive, timeless appearance and smooth, reliable operation have captured the hearts of shooting enthusiasts for generations. From the historic Winchester Model 1873 to the modern Marlin 336, lever actions offer a unique combination of elegance, versatility, and dependability.

When selecting the best lever action, it is crucial to consider factors such as caliber, action type, and intended use. Whether you seek a reliable hunting rifle for pursuing game in dense brush or a recreational target-shooting companion, there is a lever action tailored to your specific needs. Some models excel in long-range accuracy, while others offer lightning-fast follow-up shots for rapid engagement. Understanding the nuances of each lever action will help you make an informed decision.

The versatility of lever actions extends beyond their hunting prowess. Their compact size and ergonomic design make them ideal for home defense or tactical applications. With the right caliber and accessories, a lever action can be transformed into a formidable close-quarters weapon. Their ability to handle a wide range of ammunition, from subsonic to high-velocity rounds, further enhances their versatility. In skilled hands, a lever action becomes a formidable all-around firearm capable of handling a multitude of tasks with ease.

The History of Lever-Action Rifles

The Early Years

The concept of a lever-action rifle dates back to the mid-1800s. In the United States, inventors such as Walter Hunt and Lewis Jennings developed early lever-action designs. However, the first commercially successful lever-action rifle was the Henry rifle, patented by Benjamin Tyler Henry in 1860. The Henry rifle featured a unique under-the-barrel magazine that held 15 rounds, a significant improvement over the single-shot rifles of the time.

The Henry rifle quickly gained popularity among Union soldiers during the American Civil War. Its high rate of fire and accurate shooting made it a formidable weapon against Confederate troops armed with single-shot muskets. After the war, the Henry rifle continued to be produced for civilian use, and it became a popular choice for hunters and frontiersmen.

In 1873, John Browning, a young gunsmith from Ogden, Utah, revolutionized the lever-action rifle with his Model 1873 Winchester. The Winchester 1873 featured a side-loading gate and a rotating bolt, which allowed for faster and smoother cycling of cartridges. The Winchester 1873 became one of the most popular and influential lever-action rifles in history, and it is still produced today.

Year	Inventor	Rifle
1852	Walter Hunt	Volitional Repeater
1857	Lewis Jennings	Jennings Rifle
1860	Benjamin Tyler Henry	Henry Rifle
1873	John Browning	Winchester 1873

Choosing the Right Lever-Action Rifle

Lever-action rifles are classic firearms that offer a unique blend of speed, accuracy, and reliability. When selecting the right lever-action rifle for your needs, there are several key factors to consider.

Caliber

The caliber of a rifle refers to the size and shape of the bullet it fires. Lever-action rifles are available in a wide range of calibers, from small-game calibers like .22 LR to powerful big-game calibers like .45-70 Government. Choose a caliber that is appropriate for the intended use of the rifle.

Action Type

There are two main types of lever-action rifles: side-loading and top-loading. Side-loading rifles have a loading gate on the side of the receiver, while top-loading rifles have a loading port on the top of the receiver. Side-loading rifles tend to be faster to load, but top-loading rifles offer better protection against dirt and debris.

Barrel Length

The length of a rifle’s barrel affects its accuracy and velocity. Shorter barrels are more compact and easier to maneuver, but they tend to produce less velocity than longer barrels. Longer barrels offer increased accuracy and velocity, but they can also be heavier and more cumbersome.

Magazine Capacity

The magazine capacity of a rifle refers to the number of rounds it can hold. Lever-action rifles typically have a magazine capacity of 5-10 rounds, although some models can hold up to 15 or more rounds. Choose a magazine capacity that is sufficient for the intended use of the rifle.

Caliber	Barrel Length	Magazine Capacity
.30-30 Winchester	20 inches	5 rounds
.44 Magnum	18 inches	8 rounds
.45-70 Government	22 inches	6 rounds

Maintaining and Cleaning Lever-Action Rifles

Lever-action rifles are known for their reliability and ease of use, but like any firearm, they require proper maintenance and cleaning to perform at their best. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you keep your lever-action rifle in top condition:

Disassembly:

Before cleaning, disassemble the rifle according to the manufacturer’s instructions, being careful not to lose any small parts. Remove the barrel, action, and stock and lay them out on a clean surface.

Cleaning:

Barrel:

Use a cleaning rod and patches soaked in solvent to clean the barrel from the chamber to the muzzle. Ensure you remove all fouling and lead deposits.

Action:

Use a brush and solvent to clean the bolt, firing pin, extractor, and other action components. Remove any debris or fouling that may interfere with proper functioning.

Stock:

Wipe down the stock with a damp cloth to remove dirt or fingerprints. If necessary, use a mild wood cleaner to remove any grime or stains.

Lubrication:

Operating Parts:

Apply a thin layer of lubricant to all moving parts of the action, including the bolt, firing pin, and extractor. This will reduce friction and ensure smooth operation.

Bearings:

If your rifle has any bearings, such as in the lever linkage, lubricate them with a high-quality bearing grease for optimal performance.

Stock Screw:

Apply a small amount of gun oil to the stock screws to prevent them from rusting or seizing up over time.

Reassembly:

Once you have cleaned and lubricated the rifle components, reassemble it according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Ensure all parts are properly aligned and tightened.

Storage:

Store the rifle in a dry, secure location to prevent corrosion. Use a gun safe or case to keep it protected from moisture and unauthorized access.

Lever-Action Rifles in Modern Sporting Use

Lever-action rifles have enjoyed a resurgence in popularity in recent years, thanks to their classic styling, reliable operation, and versatility in modern sporting applications.

Hunting

Lever-action rifles are ideal for hunting a wide range of game, from small varmints to large deer and elk. Their compact size and quick handling make them ideal for navigating dense brush and stalking prey.

Practical Shooting Sports

Lever-action rifles are also becoming increasingly popular in practical shooting sports, such as Cowboy Action Shooting and 3-Gun competitions. Their fast cycling and ease of use make them well-suited for these fast-paced events.

Home Defense

Lever-action rifles can also be an effective choice for home defense. Their compact size and easy operation make them suitable for use in confined spaces, and their powerful cartridges provide ample stopping power.

Law Enforcement and Military

In some cases, lever-action rifles are still used by law enforcement and military forces as backup weapons or for specialized tasks. Their rugged construction and reliability make them well-suited for these applications.

Rimfire Calibers

Lever-action rifles are available in a variety of rimfire calibers, including .22 LR, .22 WMR, and .17 HMR. These calibers are ideal for shooting small game, plinking, and target practice.

Centerfire Calibers

Lever-action rifles are also available in a wide range of centerfire calibers, including .30-30 Winchester, .357 Magnum, and .45-70 Government. These calibers are suitable for hunting medium to large game and can also be used for self-defense.

Modern Features

Modern lever-action rifles often incorporate features such as adjustable stocks, Picatinny rails for optics mounting, and threaded barrels for suppressors. These features enhance their versatility and allow them to adapt to a variety of shooting applications.

Common Brands

Some of the most popular lever-action rifle brands include Marlin, Henry, and Winchester. These manufacturers offer a wide range of models and calibers to suit different needs and preferences.

Choosing a Lever-Action Rifle

When choosing a lever-action rifle, factors to consider include intended use, cartridge selection, stock configuration, and overall fit and feel. It is recommended to consult with a qualified firearms instructor or gunsmith for personalized advice.

The Best Lever Action Rifle

Lever action rifles are a popular choice for hunters and recreational shooters alike. They are known for their reliability, accuracy, and versatility. But with so many different models on the market, it can be difficult to know which one is right for you.

What to Consider When Choosing a Lever Action Rifle

There are several factors to consider when choosing a lever action rifle. These include:

Caliber: The caliber of a rifle is the diameter of the bullet it fires. The most popular calibers for lever action rifles are .30-30 Winchester, .35 Remington, and .45-70 Government.
Barrel length: The barrel length of a rifle is measured from the muzzle to the chamber. Barrel length affects the rifle’s velocity and accuracy.
Action: The action of a rifle is the mechanism that loads, fires, and ejects cartridges. Lever action rifles have a smooth, fast action that makes them ideal for hunting.
Stock: The stock of a rifle is the part that the shooter holds. The stock should be comfortable to hold and shoot.
Price: Lever action rifles can range in price from a few hundred dollars to over a thousand dollars. The price of a rifle will depend on the brand, model, caliber, and features.

The Best Lever Action Rifles

There are many great lever action rifles on the market. Some of the best include:

Marlin 1895: The Marlin 1895 is a classic lever action rifle that has been in production for over 100 years. It is known for its reliability, accuracy, and power.
Henry Big Boy: The Henry Big Boy is a modern lever action rifle that is based on the classic Winchester 1873. It is known for its smooth action, great accuracy, and affordable price.
Browning BLR: The Browning BLR is a high-quality lever action rifle that is known for its accuracy, reliability, and versatility. It is available in a variety of calibers and barrel lengths.
Winchester Model 94: The Winchester Model 94 is one of the most popular lever action rifles ever made. It is known for its smooth action, great accuracy, and classic styling.