What Is The Best Lever Action Shotgun?


If you’re looking for a shotgun that will make you the envy of all your shooting buddies, a lever action shotgun is the way to go. These guns have a rich history, a unique mechanism of operation, and a timeless look that will make you feel like a cowboy in no time. But with so many options on the market, it can be tough to know which one is the best. That’s why we’re here to help!

A lever action shotgun is a type of shotgun that operates using a lever action mechanism, rather than the pump action mechanism that is more common in modern shotguns. Lever action shotguns have been around for over a century and have been used for a variety of purposes, from hunting to competitive shooting. In this blog post, we’ll go into great detail about the best lever action shotguns on the market.

A. Definition of a Lever Action Shotgun

A lever action shotgun is a type of shotgun that uses a lever to cycle the action of the shotgun. This allows the shooter to load, fire, and eject shells quickly and efficiently. Lever action shotguns are unique because they operate using a lever, rather than a pump, which gives them a different feel and function compared to other shotguns.

B. Importance of Choosing the Right Shotgun

The right shotgun can make all the difference in a shooting scenario. Whether you’re hunting, competing, or defending your home, having the right shotgun can mean the difference between success and failure. That’s why it’s important to choose the right shotgun for your needs.

C. Purpose of the Blog Post

The purpose of this blog post is to provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision about the best lever action shotgun for your needs. We’ll look at the history of lever action shotguns, the different types of lever action shotguns on the market, and how to choose the right one for you.

History of Lever Action Shotguns

Lever action shotguns have a rich history that spans over a century. Let’s take a closer look at the evolution of these guns.

A. Origin and Evolution of Shotguns

Shotguns have been around for hundreds of years and have evolved over time to meet the changing needs of shooters. The first shotguns were single-shot guns that were used for hunting and sporting purposes. Over time, the design of shotguns evolved to include features like multi-shot capacity, faster reload times, and improved accuracy.

B. Introduction of Lever Action Shotguns

Lever action shotguns were introduced in the late 19th century and quickly became popular among hunters and shooters. These guns were designed to be more efficient and faster-firing than pump action shotguns, making them ideal for hunting and competitive shooting.

C. Popularity and Decline of Lever Action Shotguns

Lever action shotguns were incredibly popular in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, but their popularity declined with the advent of pump action shotguns. Despite this, lever action shotguns have remained popular among some shooters and hunters, who appreciate their unique mechanism of operation and classic design.

Characteristics of Lever Action Shotguns

Lever action shotguns have a number of unique characteristics that set them apart from other types of shotguns. Let’s take a closer look at these characteristics.

A. Mechanism of Operation

The mechanism of operation of a lever action shotgun is what sets it apart from other types of shotguns. Instead of a pump, a lever is used to cycle the action of the shotgun. This allows the shooter to load, fire, and eject shells quickly and efficiently. The lever is located on the bottom of the gun and is operated by the shooter’s non-firing hand.

B. Types of Actions

There are two main types of lever action shotgun actions: tubular magazine and box magazine. The tubular magazine is located under the barrel and holds the shells in a line, while the box magazine holds the shells in a box that is located under the action of the gun. Both types of actions have their advantages and disadvantages, which we’ll explore in more detail later in the post.

C. Advantages and Disadvantages

Lever action shotguns have a number of advantages over other types of shotguns, including a faster rate of fire, a unique mechanism of operation, and a classic look. However, there are also some disadvantages to consider, such as the limited capacity of some models and the need for manual reloading after each shot.

Comparison of Lever Action Shotguns

With so many lever action shotguns on the market, it can be tough to know which one is the best. That’s why we’ve compared some of the most popular models to help you make an informed decision.

A. Criteria for Comparison

When comparing lever action shotguns, there are a number of important factors to consider, including accuracy, reliability, capacity, and overall value. We’ve taken these factors into account when comparing the following models.

B. Comparison of Popular Brands

  1. Marlin Model 94: The Marlin Model 94 is a classic lever action shotgun that has been around for over a century. It is known for its accuracy and reliability, and is a popular choice among hunters and shooters.
  2. Winchester Model 94: The Winchester Model 94 is a similar gun to the Marlin Model 94 and is known for its accuracy and reliability. However, it has a higher price point than the Marlin, making it a less popular choice among budget-conscious shooters.
  3. Rossi Circuit Judge: The Rossi Circuit Judge is a unique lever action shotgun that combines the accuracy and reliability of a shotgun with the versatility of a rifle. It is a popular choice among hunters and shooters who want a gun that can do it all.

C. Pros and Cons of Each Shotgun

Each of the above models has its own set of pros and cons, so it’s important to consider which factors are most important to you before making a decision. The Marlin Model 94 is known for its accuracy and reliability, but has a lower capacity than some other models. The Winchester Model 94 is a similar gun, but has a higher price point. The Rossi Circuit Judge is a versatile gun, but may not be as reliable as some other models.

V. Uses of Lever Action Shotguns

Lever action shotguns have a variety of uses, including hunting, competitive shooting, and home defense. Let’s take a closer look at each of these uses.

A. Hunting

Lever action shotguns are popular among hunters because of their fast rate of fire and unique mechanism of operation. They are particularly well-suited for hunting small game and birds, where accuracy and speed are important.

B. Competitive Shooting

Lever action shotguns are also popular among competitive shooters because of their fast rate of fire and unique mechanism of operation. They are used in a variety of shooting sports, such as cowboy action shooting, where the goal is to be fast and accurate with a firearm. Lever action shotguns offer a unique challenge for shooters and add a new level of excitement to the sport.

C. Home Defense

Finally, lever action shotguns are sometimes used for home defense, due to their fast rate of fire and unique mechanism of operation. They offer a reliable and efficient means of protecting one’s home and family. However, it’s important to remember that any firearm should be used responsibly and in accordance with the law.

Maintenance and Care

Like any firearm, a lever action shotgun requires proper maintenance and care in order to keep it functioning at its best. Here are a few tips to keep your shotgun in top condition.

A. Cleaning and Lubrication

It is important to regularly clean and lubricate your shotgun to keep it functioning properly. A dirty or poorly lubricated gun can lead to misfires, jams, and other problems. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning and lubrication, and don’t be afraid to ask a gunsmith for advice if you’re unsure.

B. Storing Your Shotgun

Proper storage is also important to ensure the longevity of your shotgun. Make sure to store your gun in a cool, dry place and keep it away from moisture and extreme temperatures. Also, make sure to store your ammunition separately from your gun, and always keep your gun unloaded when not in use.

Final Thoughts

Lever action shotguns offer a unique and exciting shooting experience that is sure to appeal to hunters, competitive shooters, and home defenders alike. With so many models to choose from, it’s important to consider your needs and preferences before making a decision. Whether you’re looking for a classic hunting gun, a versatile shooting platform, or a reliable home defense weapon, there is a lever action shotgun out there that is right for you.

Safety First

Remember, firearms are dangerous and should always be treated with respect and used responsibly. Make sure to follow all applicable laws and regulations, and always practice safe gun handling.

In conclusion, lever action shotguns offer a unique and exciting shooting experience, and with the right care and maintenance, can provide years of reliable service. With so many models to choose from, it’s important to consider your needs and preferences before making a decision. Whether you’re a hunter, competitive shooter, or looking for a reliable home defense weapon, there is a lever action shotgun out there that is right for you.

Thanks for reading our in-depth guide to lever action shotguns. We hope you found it helpful and informative. If you have any questions or comments, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Happy shooting!

Fun Facts About Lever Action Shotguns

Here are a few fun and interesting facts about lever action shotguns that you may not know:

A. Lever Action Shotguns Were Once Popular Among Hunters

In the late 1800s and early 1900s, lever action shotguns were incredibly popular among hunters, especially for upland bird hunting. The fast rate of fire and smooth operation of these guns made them ideal for taking down fast-moving birds.

B. Lever Action Shotguns Were Used in the Wild West

Lever action shotguns were also commonly used in the Wild West, where they were favored by lawmen, cowboys, and other frontiersmen. These guns were used for a variety of tasks, including hunting, self-defense, and even as tools for rounding up cattle.

C. Lever Action Shotguns Are Making a Comeback

Despite their popularity in the past, lever action shotguns fell out of favor in recent years. However, in recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in these guns, and many manufacturers are now producing modern versions of these classic firearms.

D. Lever Action Shotguns Have Unique Mechanisms of Operation

Lever action shotguns operate differently than other types of firearms, with a lever located beneath the stock that is used to cycle the action. This unique mechanism of operation sets lever action shotguns apart from other firearms and makes them a fascinating piece of shooting history.

E. Lever Action Shotguns Offer a Unique Shooting Experience

Finally, lever action shotguns offer a unique and exciting shooting experience that is unlike any other type of firearm. Whether you’re a hunter, competitive shooter, or just looking for a fun gun to shoot, a lever action shotgun is sure to provide hours of enjoyment.

Recent Posts