Lever-action rifles have been around for generations, and it's easy to see why they've stuck around. While the classic look and feel haven't gone anywhere, today's lever guns offer plenty of modern touches, from threaded barrels and optics-mounting solutions to improved ergonomics. Some stay true to their traditional roots, while others take a more modern, tactical approach. With so many options on the market, there's a lever gun for just about everyone. We've rounded up a handful of models in various calibers and configurations worth a closer look, whether you're heading to the deer woods, spending an afternoon at the range, or just looking to add another lever-gun to your collection.
Marlin Trapper Series Model 1894 (10 mm)
Marlin's Trapper Series Model 1894 is now chambered in the popular 10 mm Auto cartridge. Suppressor height Skinner Sights sit atop the rifle, comprising a fixed front blade and an adjustable rear aperture. This gun has a 5/8"-24 TPI threaded muzzle on the end of its 16.1-inch barrel, giving you the option to add a brake or suppressor. The 1894's stainless steel finish and laminate stock, checkered wrist and forend, allow it to withstand harsh weather while providing a secure grip. After installing the Dead Air RXD 910Ti, we hit the range with some of Hornady's 10 mm 150gr FTX LeverEvolution. While this can is optimized for 9mm, it's also compatible with 10mm, taming the noise from each shot. Average five-shot groups measured around three inches at 50 yards, which isn't half bad for a pistol cartridge guided without any magnification. MSRP $1,599.99. marlinfirearms.com
Heritage 92 Black (.44 Magnum)
The Heritage 92 Black is chambered in .44 Mag. and is deeply inspired by the famous lever gun that won the West. This rifle has a 12-round capacity, a 24-inch barrel, a drift-adjustable front sight, and an adjustable buckhorn rear sight. We tested this rifle with Black Hills 300gr. JHP .44 Mag. At 50 yards, average five-shot group sizes hovered around 3.5 inches, a result of sights that prioritize fast acquisition over precision. Whether used for hunting or casual plinking, its smooth operation and dependable accuracy will please, as will its nostalgic look and feel. MSRP $1,555.00. heritagemfg.com
Henry H1X Model (.22 S/L/LR)
Inspired by their popular center-fire X Model lineup, Henry has released the H1 X, chambered in .22 Short, Long, and Long Rifle—making it exceptionally versatile. The 16.5-inch barrel is threaded and paired with a canted magazine tube. The tube's position provides ample clearance, letting you keep a suppressor on the gun during reloading. The H1 X comes with suppressor-height fiber optic sights and an integrated Picatinny rail, to which we mounted a Skinner 1-4x20 optic. After installing the Rugged Mustang .22 caliber suppressor with its threaded muzzle, it was time to hit the range. Using Federal's 40-gr. 22 LR Hammerdown at 50 yards, average five-shot groups were around 0.6 inches, while Winchester's 42-gr. Subsonic averaged one-inch groups. These results are well within minute-of-squirrel, and at a scant 5 lbs., this will be a dream to carry through the woods. MSRP $590.00. henryusa.com
Smith & Wesson Model 1854 Stealth Hunter (45 Colt)
The Smith & Wesson Model 1854 Stealth Hunter is chambered in .45 Colt and has a 16.3-inch threaded barrel. Additional chambering options include .357 Mag. and .44 Mag. Sights include an HIVIZ H3 front sight and an adjustable XS Sights ghost ring rear sight for quick target acquisition, even in dim lighting. If you want to forgo irons, an extended Picatinny rail is ready to mount your preferred optic, with additional customization options via the gun's M-LOK-compatible handguard. Living up to its name, this rifle sports a synthetic stock with thoughtfully placed checkering for optimal durability and handling as you carry it through the woods. Additional features, such as a large loop lever and a flat trigger, improve both function and accuracy. Using Black Hills 250-gr. RNFP loading, we sent several boxes of .45 Colt ammunition downrange at 50 yards, resulting in average five-shot group sizes of around 2.75 inches. MSRP $1,399.00. smith-wesson.com
Taylors & Company 1894 Carbine (.30-30 WIN)
Chambered in the ever-popular .30-30 Winchester, the 1894 Carbine has long been a favorite among deer hunters. First introduced more than a century ago, the Model 1894 earned a reputation for reliability that continues to this day. Taylors & Company's take on this classic lever gun features a forged, case-hardened steel frame, checkered walnut stock and fore-end, blued components, and a traditional round barrel. For Midwest hunters looking to bring a little Old West flair to deer camp this season, the 1894 Carbine certainly fits the bill. taylorsfirearms.com
Chiappa 86 Wildlands Angle Ejection Takedown (.45-70 Govt)
Chambered in .45-70 Govt., the Chiappa 86 Wildlands Angle Ejection Takedown holds four rounds and features a 16.5-inch barrel threaded to accept a muzzle brake or suppressor. Its large-loop lever is wrapped in paracord for a more secure grip, while the skeletonized polymer stock comes equipped with an adjustable cheek riser and quick-detach sling studs. As its name suggests, the rifle can be broken down into two pieces, making it easier to stow in a pack when heading into the backcountry. For hunters who like the feel of a traditional lever gun but appreciate a few modern upgrades, the compact and rugged 86 Wildlands is worth checking out. chiappafirearms.com
From small-game rimfires to hard-hitting big bores, lever-action rifles cover a lot of ground these days. Some stick close to the classic designs that have served hunters for generations, while others bring threaded barrels, optics-ready receivers, and other modern touches to the table. There's something to be said for both approaches. Heading deep into the backcountry? Need a dependable ranch rifle or a traditional .30-30 for deer season? Chances are, there's a lever-gun suited to the job. With so many configurations now available, it's clear that this American classic still has plenty to offer.
