A few years ago, the lever-action rifle looked like a niche for collectors and cowboy action shooters. Today it is one of the hottest categories in the industry, driven by threaded barrels, modern sights and new cartridges. The 2026 lineup shows how far the trend has gone.
Henry H9, H10 and H12 Provider and Protector
Henry’s new models come in two flavors, according to NSSF’s Let’s Go Shooting. The Provider ($1,135) is a traditional rifle with a 20-inch blued barrel and checkered walnut stock. The Protector ($1,200) is a compact carbine with a 16.5-inch threaded barrel, ready for a suppressor. Chamberings include .30-30, .360 Buckhammer, .38-55, .35 Remington, .45-70, .357 Magnum and .44 Magnum depending on the model.
Marlin 1894 Trapper 10mm, $1,599
American Hunter highlights a stainless 1894 Trapper in 10mm Auto, with a threaded muzzle, Skinner sights and a 10-round tube magazine. A 10mm carbine pairs nicely with a 10mm handgun for people who want one cartridge for woods carry and the rifle.
Smith & Wesson Model 1854 in .360 Buckhammer, $1,399
Smith & Wesson’s lever gun now comes in .360 Buckhammer, a straight-wall cartridge built for states that restrict deer hunters to straight-wall rounds. It features a threaded muzzle, XS ghost-ring sight, Picatinny rail and M-LOK slots.
Henry SPD Predator, $2,510
A lever gun for coyote hunters: .223/5.56, a carbon-fiber barrel, a match trigger and a 10-round AR-style magazine, according to American Hunter. It is a sign of how far modern lever guns have strayed from tradition.
Taylor’s & Co. TC73 in 9mm, $1,999
Taylor’s says the TC73 is its first firearm made in the USA from USA-made parts. A 9mm lever gun is a fun, low-recoil plinker and a handy home and ranch carbine.
Henry H14 Long Ranger Big Woods Carbine, $1,500
Gun Digest’s September roundup adds an 18.5-inch .308 lever gun with a box magazine, so you can shoot pointed hunting bullets.
Is a lever gun right for you?
Good fits: woods deer hunting, ranch and truck rifles, hunters who like peep sights and a slim, quick-handling rifle, and anyone in a straight-wall state.
Less ideal: long-range shooting, where bolt guns still dominate, and anyone who wants a rifle that is easy to scope low and centered, since lever guns often need specific mounts.
Practice running the lever from the shoulder. A smooth cycle without taking the gun off your face is the skill that makes lever guns shine.
