A new addition to the Smith & Wesson product offer, but it's not the usual revolver or the umpteenth polymer-framed striker fired carry pistol. This time they are back to the roots! It was 1854 when Horace Smith & Daniel Baird Wesson patented their first lever gun with the Volcanic lever-action. Now, 170 years later, on the eve of the SHOT Show and somewhat unexpectedly, Smith & Wesson drops the Model 1854: a lever-action rifle series.
Two versions are initially available, both chambered in .44 Magnum: a utilitarian stainless-steel bead-finish gun with polymer furniture, and an extremely limited-edition black version with high-grade satin-finished walnut stocks and receiver with polish black PVD finish – only 1,854 units of the limited-edition rifle will be available for sale (the number is not accidental, of course). The two versions are priced in the U.S. at $1,279 and $3,499, respectively.
Smith & Wesson Model 1854 lever-action rifle: an American classic redefined for the modern user
“The Model 1854 may be our first foray into the world of modern lever actions, but we have spent years developing this gun from the ground up, perfecting the action, pitting it against competitors, and conducting rigorous endurance tests to bring you the best of the best from Smith & Wesson’s factory,” they say.
The manufacturer also stresses how the smooth action is the standout feature of the Model 1854. With an oversized lever and consistent lightness, it should allow a nearly effortless cycling of the action.
The flat trigger also provides a consistent placement for you finger, crisply breaking at about 5 lb (2,270 g approx.).
The polymer version weighs about 3 kg and its forend features M-LOK slots at 3, 6, and 9 o’clock positions for ease of mounting accessories, while the limited-edition with wood forend and stock is a bit heavier, at 3,220 g. The furniture however is easily interchangeable and compatible with Marlin 1894 pattern forends and stocks for customization choices.
Factory iron sights consist of a fully adjustable XS ghost-ring rear sight and a gold bead front sight. In case you want to mount scopes or other optics, a Picatinny rail is also present on the top of the action.
The magazine tube has a capacity of 9 rounds and is removable, allowing you to safely and easily unload your firearm without working the action to empty the rifle. The 19.25”/489 mm barrel is 11/16”-24 threaded.
Smith & Wesson claims that the 1854 Series is the perfect blend of heritage and innovation. For sure, it's nice to see that another classic American lever gun is reborn.
