First Shots: Smith & Wesson 1854 Series Lever Action Rifle

Smith & Wesson applies a little leverage in the rifle market.

by
posted on January 24, 2024
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **

Smith & Wesson has released its first lever-action rifle, terming it the Model 1854 in an homage to Horace Smith and Daniel Wesson's first lever-gun patent. Things have changed quite a bit since 1854, however, and the Model 1854 does an excellent job of blending classic lines with modern features. 

The standard Model 1854 Series is geared toward shooters who want the most modern enhancements. Featuring a synthetic black stock, it includes M-Lok slots in the fore-end, a 4.75-inch Picatinny base for mounting optics, a large-loop lever and a flat-face trigger. The Limited Edition, meanwhile, boasts a classic high-grade satin walnut finish on both the stock and fore-end, for those looking for a more traditional piece. 

Smith & Wesson Model 1854 Features: 

  • 11/16-24 Threaded barrel
  • Accepts mounts compatible with Marlin 1894 hole patterns
  • Black synthetic stock with textured grip panels
  • M-Lok synthetic fore-end with textured grip panels
  • Gold bead front sight
  • XS Sights ghost ring rear sight
  • 1:20-inch, right-hand twist with 8-groove rifling
  • Large loop operating lever
  • Forged 416 stainless steel receiver
  • 19.25 inch 410 stainless steel barrel

Smith & Wesson Model 1854 Limited Edition has many of the same features, but instead of a stainless steel finish and a synthetic stock and fore-end, it has a black polished PVD finish and a high-grade walnut stock and fore-end. 

For more information on the rifles in the 1854 Series or any of the other products made by Smith & Wesson, please visit smith-wesson.com

Latest

gun lingo book
gun lingo book

Glossary of Firearm-Related Acronyms

Confused by all these acronyms? Here’s a handy guide.

First Look: Viridian Venta Green-Dot Sight

Viridian has released the Venta green-dot sight for carbines.

The Fix: How to Deal With a Bad Instructor

You are an experienced shooter with multiple instructor certifications. You have been teaching classes successfully for the last several years and recently decided that it was time to seek an advanced concealed-carry certification.

First Look: Tippmann Arms Integrally Suppressed Firearms

A carbine and a large-format pistol with integral suppressors are now available.

Drills You Can Run at (Nearly) Any Range

Maximize your training despite the limits imposed by your local range.

First Look: Rotapoint Crossfix Optics Mount

Rotapoint released a novel approach to cross-eye dominance for rifle shooters.

Interests



Get the best of Shooting Illustrated delivered to your inbox.