10 Best Lever Action Rifles Ever Made

Published on September 3, 2022
Duration: 11:16

This video ranks the 10 best lever action rifles, highlighting their historical significance and technical innovations. It covers iconic models like the Henry Repeating Rifle, Winchester 1873, and Marlin 39A, detailing their calibers, capacities, and unique features. The review emphasizes how these firearms evolved, from early designs to modern adaptations, and their impact on American history and shooting.

Quick Summary

The Winchester Model 1873, nicknamed 'The Gun that Won the West,' is a top-ranked lever action rifle. It featured an iron frame for durability and was chambered in the popular .44-40 caliber, allowing for shared ammunition with revolvers.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Lever Action Rifles
  2. 00:27#10 Henry Repeating Rifle
  3. 02:17#9 Winchester Model 1866
  4. 03:32#8 Winchester Model 1873
  5. 05:09#7 Winchester Model 1886
  6. 06:09#6 Winchester 1887 Shotgun
  7. 06:36#5 Winchester Model 1894
  8. 07:42#4 Browning BLR
  9. 08:11#3 Savage Model 99
  10. 09:11#2 Marlin 1895
  11. 10:18#1 Marlin Model 39A

Frequently Asked Questions

What is considered the first significant lever action rifle?

The Henry Repeating Rifle, designed in 1860, is considered a foundational lever action firearm. It introduced the concept of 'superiority of fire' with its 15-round tubular magazine and rapid firing capability, vastly outperforming traditional muskets of the era.

Which lever action rifle is famously known as 'The Gun that Won the West'?

The Winchester Model 1873 earned the nickname 'The Gun that Won the West.' Its iron frame provided added strength, and it was chambered in the versatile .44-40 caliber, which could also be used in revolvers, simplifying ammunition needs.

What innovation did the Browning BLR introduce to lever action rifles?

The Browning BLR solved a key limitation of traditional lever action rifles by utilizing a detachable box magazine instead of a tubular one. This allowed for the safe use of pointed (spitzer) bullets, which offer better ballistic performance.

Which lever action rifle holds the record for the longest continuous production?

The Marlin Model 39A holds the distinction of being the longest-running shoulder firearm in continuous production. It is highly regarded as the premier .22 rimfire lever action rifle, known for its balance and accuracy.

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