Lever action rifles have been an iconic part of American history, from their role in taming the Wild West to their enduring presence in the hunting and shooting community. While these firearms are loved for their rugged simplicity and nostalgic appeal, they’re not without their quirks. Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or new to the world of lever actions, there are some important things you should keep in mind when using these classic guns. Let’s explore ten key points, both the pros, and cons, that you need to know when handling a lever action rifle.
1. Loading Isn’t Always Easy
One of the first challenges you’ll encounter with a lever action rifle is loading. If you’re using a rifle like the Winchester 1873, the side loading gate can be tricky, especially if you’re new to lever guns. The spring tension can be tight, and without a practiced hand, getting rounds into the chamber can feel like a battle. Many users report having to “half-load” rounds, pushing them in partially before using the next round to fully seat the first. While the Henry rifles offer a simpler tube-loading method, it’s less practical for quickly topping off rounds in high-pressure situations.
As u/Hobosam21 put it on Reddit, “There’s the myth that revolvers and lever actions are simpler and easier to understand—this is entirely false.” It’s not a simple drop-and-go like modern semi-autos, and the learning curve can surprise even experienced shooters.
2. Avoid Short Stroking the Lever
Perhaps the most common error made by those new to lever actions is “short stroking” the lever. This occurs when you fail to fully extend the lever before returning it to its starting position. Short stroking can cause feeding issues and jams, turning what should be a fluid action into a frustrating mess. The trick is to develop a consistent rhythm – lever all the way out, lever all the way in. Practice makes perfect, but it’s something to be mindful of every time you pull the trigger.
3. Clearing Malfunctions Can Be a Pain
Speaking of jams, one of the downsides of lever action rifles is how difficult it can be to clear a malfunction. Unlike an AR-15 or other modern rifles, where you can easily pop the upper off and access the chamber, lever guns are more enclosed. This makes it tricky to clear a jam without some tools on hand. Many users have learned to carry a pocket knife or small screwdriver to help remove stuck cartridges. As cool as these rifles are, you definitely don’t want to fumble around trying to clear a jam in the field.
4. Capacity: It’s Limited
One of the main drawbacks of lever action rifles is their limited capacity. Most lever guns hold between 6 to 10 rounds, with capacity varying depending on barrel length and caliber. While this isn’t necessarily a problem for hunting, it can be a disadvantage in other situations. As Reddit user u/howlinmad pointed out, “I love my lever action rifles, but 30 rounds is a lot more than 10.” If you’re used to high-capacity magazines, the transition to a lever gun might take some getting used to.
5. Be Picky with Ammo
Lever action rifles are notorious for being picky about ammunition, especially when chambered in calibers like .357 Magnum or .38 Special. While many lever guns can shoot multiple types of rounds, that doesn’t mean they’ll do so without issue. Ammo length, shape, and powder charge can all affect how smoothly a lever action cycles. It’s crucial to test various loads to find the one that works best with your particular rifle. u/BallsOutKrunked shared that “.22 ammo can be [bad] quality, but the repeater can usually handle it fine.” However, this isn’t always the case with larger calibers, so take your time to find the right match.
6. Buckhorn Sights: Love ‘Em or Hate ‘Em
If you’re not familiar with traditional iron sights, the Buckhorn sights found on many lever actions can be a challenge. These large, U-shaped sights can be imprecise, especially at longer ranges. Some shooters prefer to replace them with peep sights or even mount optics if their rifles are compatible. “The 30-30 probably has taken more deer than any other rifle,” says Reddit user u/Ok-Noise-9171, but those Buckhorn sights are not doing it any favors at 100+ yards. Adjusting to these sights is essential if you want to be accurate beyond short distances.
7. Optics Compatibility May Vary
Not all lever action rifles are compatible with modern optics. Some older models, like the Winchester 1873, have a top-eject design, which makes mounting a scope or red dot almost impossible without significant modification. While newer models like the Henry Big Boy are often drilled and tapped for optics, you’ll need to check your specific rifle. This is important if you plan to use your lever gun for long-range shooting or hunting.
8. They Can Be Ammo-Efficient
One of the biggest advantages of lever actions is their compatibility with handgun calibers. If you own a revolver in .357 Magnum or .44 Magnum, you can often use the same rounds in your lever action rifle. This can be a real benefit for preppers or anyone who wants to simplify their ammo storage. As u/maryupallnight noted on Reddit, “They work well with handgun calibers like the .357. So, if you have a lot of handgun ammo, a rifle can be more accurate.” It’s a great way to maximize the usefulness of your ammo stockpile.
9. Limited Modularity
Unlike modern rifles, lever action guns don’t have the same level of modularity. While you can find aftermarket stocks, rails, and sights, these are harder to come by and often more expensive. Additionally, lever actions lack the accessory-friendly design of AR-style rifles, making it difficult to attach lights, grips, or other tactical gear. If you want to customize your rifle, be prepared to spend some extra time and money hunting down the right parts.
10. Maintenance is Simple but Different
Despite the challenges mentioned above, lever action rifles are surprisingly low-maintenance. They don’t require as much regular cleaning as gas-operated systems, making them ideal for rugged outdoor use. However, disassembling a lever gun isn’t always as intuitive as modern firearms. Take time to learn how to properly clean and maintain your rifle to ensure it continues to function smoothly in the long run. Redditor u/Escobarclan, a former M16A3 and M4 user, shared that his “Winchester ’94 in .30-30 and Rossi 92 in .357 Magnum have been flawless. Never a jam, never a failure.”
The Timeless Appeal of Lever Actions
Lever action rifles have a timeless appeal that keeps them relevant even in today’s era of high-tech firearms. They offer a blend of power, reliability, and nostalgia that few other guns can match. While they’re not the best choice for every situation, they excel in hunting, home defense, and just plain old-fashioned fun at the range. As Reddit user u/BestAdamEver said, “A lever action has several disadvantages compared to an AR, but really, it’s not super important.” The general consensus is that these guns are fun and capable, and sometimes that is all you need.
Mastering Takes Time
Whether you’re planning to use one for self-defense, hunting, or simply want to add a piece of history to your collection, lever actions are worth considering. Just remember, while they might look simple, mastering a lever action rifle takes time, patience, and a good understanding of its unique quirks.
The Importance of Nostalgia
How important is nostalgia when choosing a firearm for practical use, and can it sometimes outweigh modern innovations? With limited capacity and slower cycling, do lever action rifles still hold a place in home defense, or are they more suited for recreational shooting and hunting?
Gary’s love for adventure and preparedness stems from his background as a former Army medic. Having served in remote locations around the world, he knows the importance of being ready for any situation, whether in the wilderness or urban environments. Gary’s practical medical expertise blends with his passion for outdoor survival, making him an expert in both emergency medical care and rugged, off-the-grid living. He writes to equip readers with the skills needed to stay safe and resilient in any scenario.