Lever Action vs. Lever Bolt Action

Attribute	Lever Action	Lever Bolt Action
Operating Mechanism	Uses a lever to cycle the action	Uses a lever to cycle the action
Locking Mechanism	Usually a falling block or sliding block design	Uses a rotating bolt to lock the action
Speed of Cycling	Generally slower than bolt action rifles	Can be faster due to the lever design
Accuracy	Can be accurate with practice	Can be accurate with practice
Popular Models	Winchester Model 1873, Marlin 336	Browning BLR, Savage Model 99

Introduction

When it comes to choosing a rifle for hunting or shooting sports, there are many options available on the market. Two popular choices are lever action rifles and lever bolt action rifles. Both types of rifles have their own unique attributes and advantages that make them appealing to different types of shooters. In this article, we will compare the attributes of lever action and lever bolt action rifles to help you decide which one may be the best fit for your needs.

Design

Lever action rifles are known for their classic and iconic design. They typically have a lever located near the trigger guard that is used to cycle the action and chamber a new round. This design allows for quick and smooth cycling of the rifle, making it popular among shooters who need to take fast follow-up shots. Lever bolt action rifles, on the other hand, combine the lever action mechanism with a bolt action system. This design allows for a more controlled and precise cycling of the action, making it ideal for shooters who prioritize accuracy over speed.

Speed and Efficiency

One of the main advantages of lever action rifles is their speed and efficiency in cycling the action. The lever can be quickly and easily manipulated to chamber a new round, allowing for rapid follow-up shots. This makes lever action rifles a popular choice for hunting and shooting sports where quick shooting is necessary. Lever bolt action rifles, on the other hand, may not be as fast as lever action rifles in cycling the action, but they offer a more controlled and precise shooting experience. Shooters who prioritize accuracy over speed may prefer the lever bolt action design.

Accuracy

When it comes to accuracy, lever bolt action rifles have the edge over lever action rifles. The bolt action system in lever bolt action rifles allows for a more consistent and precise lock-up of the action, resulting in improved accuracy. This makes lever bolt action rifles a popular choice among competitive shooters and long-range shooters who require pinpoint accuracy. Lever action rifles, while still capable of delivering accurate shots, may not be as consistent as lever bolt action rifles due to their design.

Recoil Management

Recoil management is an important factor to consider when choosing a rifle, especially for shooters who are sensitive to recoil. Lever action rifles are known for their smooth and comfortable shooting experience, with the lever action mechanism helping to absorb some of the recoil. This makes lever action rifles a popular choice for shooters who prefer a softer shooting experience. Lever bolt action rifles, on the other hand, may have a slightly sharper recoil due to the bolt action system, but this can be mitigated with proper shooting technique and recoil management accessories.

Customization and Accessories

Both lever action and lever bolt action rifles offer a wide range of customization options and accessories to suit the needs and preferences of individual shooters. From aftermarket stocks and barrels to optics and trigger upgrades, shooters can personalize their rifles to enhance performance and aesthetics. Lever action rifles may have a slight edge in terms of aftermarket support and accessories due to their popularity and long history in the shooting community. However, lever bolt action rifles are also highly customizable and can be tailored to meet the specific requirements of shooters.

Price and Availability

When it comes to price and availability, lever action rifles are generally more affordable and easier to find compared to lever bolt action rifles. Lever action rifles have been around for much longer and are produced by a wide range of manufacturers, making them readily available in various price ranges. Lever bolt action rifles, on the other hand, may be more expensive and harder to find due to their specialized design and fewer manufacturers producing them. Shooters on a budget may find lever action rifles to be a more cost-effective option.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both lever action and lever bolt action rifles have their own unique attributes and advantages that make them appealing to different types of shooters. Lever action rifles are known for their speed and efficiency in cycling the action, making them ideal for quick shooting scenarios. Lever bolt action rifles, on the other hand, offer superior accuracy and precision, making them a popular choice among competitive and long-range shooters. Ultimately, the best rifle for you will depend on your shooting style, preferences, and budget. Consider the attributes discussed in this article to help you make an informed decision when choosing between lever action and lever bolt action rifles.