When you think of Smith & Wesson, you probably imagine the M&P series of pistols, a high-end revolver, or something built on the AR-15 platform.
You don’t associate the company with lever guns unless you’re a history buff with a soft spot for the ill-fated Smith & Wesson Volcanic repeating pistol.
Now, 170 years after the Volcanic’s debut, that’s changing. The all-new Smith & Wesson 1854 is a home run for shooters who want a quality lever-action rifle that pays tribute to the old days while keeping the future square in its sights.
Smith & Wesson 1854 Specs & Features
Specs
Features
The 1854 looks like it came straight out of a spaghetti western. It’s got an oversized loop that makes it easy to shoot with gloves, and the stock is compatible with the Marlin 1894 pattern for those who like to customize.
This rifle is peppered with modern touches where it counts, though. It has M-LOK mounting points at the 3-, 6-, and 9-o’clock positions on the stock’s forend. You can add a suppressor to the threaded muzzle.
The removable magazine tube lets you empty nine rounds of .44 Mag without cycling them through the action. A Picatinny rail from XS sights has room to mount a scope or red dot, or you can stick with the integrated peep rear sight and gold bead front sight.
Its flat-faced trigger feels as modern as your favorite AR-15 or competition pistol (although likely heavier).
In addition to the synthetic stock and bead-finish stainless steel, Smith & Wesson built 1854 rifles with a walnut stock and glossy black finish over stainless steel. The blacked-out metal and rich walnut looked amazing at SHOT Show, but they come with a hefty price jump, assuming you’re lucky enough to find one.
The lever-action market has been heating up for several years. Marlin made a comeback under Ruger’s ownership. Henry seems to be coming out with something new every few months.
The concept of tactical lever guns like the 9mm Patriot Ordnance Factory Tombstone is clearly more than a fad, based on the number of companies jumping on the bandwagon with new firearms and accessories.
It makes sense for Smith & Wesson to get in on the action. The 1854 is a fantastic starting point, and we can’t wait to see more cartridge options in the future.
Smith & Wesson lists an MSRP of $1,279 for the 1854 or $3,499 for a rifle with the limited-edition walnut stock.
5.56 and .223 Ammo in Stock
What do you think of the new Smith & Wesson 1854? Let us know below. For more Wild West fun, check out our guide to the best lever-action rifles.
6 Leave a Reply
Safeties? We don't need no stinking safeties? Seriously thou. Make mine in .480 Ruger, to match my Bisley, and I'll take two. One for my daughter and I. I might not mind having one, but with laminated stocks in a dark red and grey would fit the bill.
The S&W 1854 just draws a yawn from me. It's not like a no 44 mag lever actions to be had. Now if they had come out in 460 S&W and 500 S&W, then that would be something to talk about,
Another cross bolt safety on a lever action rifle? ... $3500 for a walnut stock AND a cross bolt safety?? Really???
But why?
I really like the walnut stock, but there is no way I can afford to pay $3500 for a rifle.
I do like my Henry and several Rossi lever guns. Accurate and dependable. And, not priced exorbitantly, either.