TOP 12 Lever Action Rifles That Only Idiots Will Buy!

Published on June 14, 2025
Duration: 19:53

This video critically reviews 12 lever-action rifles that are often overhyped or suffer from significant quality control issues. It highlights specific models like the Puma M92, Henry 410, and Marlin 336 (Remington era) as examples of poor execution, unreliable actions, and inconsistent performance, advising potential buyers to exercise caution or avoid them altogether.

Quick Summary

Several lever action rifles are identified as unreliable or poorly made, including older Puma M92 imports, the Henry 410 shotgun, Cimarron 1873, Chiappa 1886, Winchester 94 AE, Marlin 336 and 1894 from the Remington era, Winchester Model 88, Henry Long Ranger, Marlin 338 MXLR, and Rossi R92, due to issues like rough actions, feeding problems, and inconsistent quality.

Chapters

  1. 00:59Puma M92 (Pre-Brz Imports)
  2. 02:28Henry 410 Lever Action Shotgun
  3. 03:56Cimarron 1873 Short Rifle
  4. 05:26Chiappa 1886
  5. 07:05Winchester 94 Angle Eject (AE)
  6. 08:34Marlin 336 (Remington Era)
  7. 10:03Winchester Model 88
  8. 11:32Winchester Model 1873
  9. 13:00Marlin 1894 (Remington Era)
  10. 14:32Henry Long Ranger
  11. 16:06Marlin 338 MXLR
  12. 17:38Rossi R92

Frequently Asked Questions

Which lever action rifles are identified as unreliable or poorly made?

The video highlights several lever action rifles to avoid, including older Puma M92 imports, the Henry 410 shotgun, Cimarron 1873, Chiappa 1886, Winchester 94 AE, Marlin 336 and 1894 from the Remington era, Winchester Model 88, Henry Long Ranger, Marlin 338 MXLR, and Rossi R92, citing issues like rough actions, feeding problems, and inconsistent quality.

What are common problems with 'Remlin' era Marlin lever action rifles?

Marlin rifles produced during the Remington acquisition ('Remlin' era), specifically the 336 and 1894 models, are frequently criticized for poor quality control. Issues include mismatched wood and metal, rough machining, misaligned barrels, gritty actions, and erratic feeding, making them unreliable compared to earlier or newer production.

Why should buyers be cautious of older Puma M92 and Rossi R92 lever action rifles?

Older Puma M92 and Rossi R92 rifles are often sold as budget-friendly options but can be highly inconsistent. They frequently suffer from rough actions that feel like they're cycling gravel, feeding issues, and require significant gunsmithing, such as action jobs and internal polishing, to become reliably functional.

Are historical lever action designs like the Winchester 1873 still practical today?

While historically significant, the Winchester 1873's delicate toggle link action is considered too fragile for modern defensive ammunition or heavy use. It's prone to timing issues, misfeeds, and extraction failures, making it more suitable as a display piece or for light cowboy action shooting rather than a reliable workhorse.

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