Gun Tests has evaluated many lever-action rifles in various chamberings over the last few years, so we’ve compiled our Top 10 Lever-Action Rifles for Late 2026 in list below, considering multiple chamberings in both standard rifle cartridges and what are thought of as handgun cartridges. Of course, we haven’t tested every rifle on the market, so we’ll be interested to see which one is your favorite in the comments. As always, prices reflect what we paid for the gun at the time of the test, so expect current prices to be different. — Todd Woodard
10Cimarron 1894 Rifle CA2903 38-55 Winchester, $1505
GUN TESTS GRADE: B+
The 1894 is a modern reproduction of the iconic Winchester Model 1894 lever action, and it looked beautifully antique. The stiff action and gritty trigger caused us to reduce the grade.
GUN TESTS GRADE: A- OUR PICK
Lever guns aren’t known for their gilt-edged accuracy, but this tricked-out Marlin managed to average sub-2-inch groups. Short, light, and easy to carry, this could be a great woods gun or defensive carbine.
GUN TESTS GRADE: B+
Ruger took a great rifle and made it better. Ruger has shown outstanding judgment in placing Skinner Sights on a number of their lever guns. We’d love to see them come from the factory on this model.
GUN TESTS GRADE: A-
The S&W Model 1854 had the better factory trigger and sights, but proved to be a little more choosey about what ammo it liked. It’s an updated version of a tried-and-true lever-action rifle.
GUN TESTS GRADE: A-
The Long Ranger is a slick-operating lever action. Accuracy is very good with certain bullet weights. We would not feel undergunned with this in a deer blind.
GUN TESTS GRADE: A-
The Extra Light is a variant on the classic 1886 with modern features. The trigger could have been better. Accuracy was good despite the old-school sights.
GUN TESTS GRADE: A-
The Ridge Runner Takedown is modern take on the classic Winchester 1886 with a muzzle compensator, rubber buttplate, and sighting options galore. Price is steep.
3Henry H24 Signature Rifle H024-3855 38-55 Winchester, $943
GUN TESTS GRADE: A DECEMBER 2026
The H24 Rifle is a modern and fancy take on the classic Marlin Model 336 design. Accuracy was decent, the action fairly smooth, and the trigger serviceable.
GUN TESTS GRADE: A [BEST BUY]
The R95 is a rugged 45-70 at a great price. It is accurate, comes optics ready, and can be customized. We’d buy this one for sure.
GUN TESTS GRADE: A (OUR PICK)
In hand, the Model 1873 Carbine is lithe and lively. Being relatively light weight at 7.2 pounds unloaded, it shoulders fast and is easy to point. It offers a velvety slick action, had excellent accuracy with iron sights, and is a modern version of the gun that won West. We want one.
