Lever actions, calibers, and why bolt actions win for hunting

Published on March 8, 2026
Duration: 1:59

This video from TheYankeeMarshal compares lever-action and bolt-action rifles, focusing on caliber choices for hunting and versatility. The instructor, John Mandrick, highlights pistol calibers like .357 Magnum and .38 Special for lever actions, emphasizing their low recoil and suitability for new shooters and specific hunting regulations in states like Ohio. He also discusses .45 Colt for its dual-use potential with revolvers and .45-70 for larger threats, while recommending bolt actions with calibers like .270 Winchester for dedicated big-game hunting.

Quick Summary

Lever-action rifles in pistol calibers like .357 Magnum offer low recoil, ideal for new shooters and specific hunting regulations. For bigger game, bolt-action rifles with calibers like .270 Winchester are generally preferred for their accuracy and power. The .45 Colt offers versatility by allowing shared ammunition between rifles and revolvers.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Lever Action Caliber Options
  2. 00:12Personal History with Lever Actions
  3. 00:29Recommended Lever Action Caliber
  4. 00:48.45-70 for Wild Boar Defense
  5. 01:04Lever Action vs. Bolt Action for Hunting
  6. 01:15Bolt Action Calibers & Lever Action Recoil
  7. 01:36State Hunting Regulations & Straight-Wall Cartridges

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the advantages of lever-action rifles in pistol calibers like .357 Magnum?

Lever-action rifles in calibers like .357 Magnum and .38 Special offer very low recoil, making them ideal for training new shooters. They also provide versatility for hunting and comply with regulations in some states requiring pistol calibers or straight-wall cartridges.

Why are bolt-action rifles often preferred for hunting larger game?

Bolt-action rifles are generally favored for hunting larger game due to their robust actions, typically longer barrels for better velocity and accuracy, and their ability to reliably chamber more powerful cartridges suitable for long-range engagement of big game.

What caliber does the speaker recommend for using the same ammunition in a lever-action rifle and a revolver?

For maximum versatility, the speaker recommends the .45 Colt caliber for a lever-action rifle, as it allows the shooter to use the same ammunition in both the rifle and a .45 Colt revolver, simplifying logistics.

Are there specific state regulations that favor lever-action rifles?

Yes, states like Ohio often have regulations restricting hunting rifles to pistol calibers or straight-wall cartridges due to population density. This makes lever-action rifles chambered in suitable calibers a practical choice for hunters in those areas.

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