Smith & Wesson 1854 Review

In 2024 Smith & Wesson went back to its early days with the introduction of the Model 1854, its first lever-action rifle since the Volcanic Rifle was patented 170 years ago. The 1854 was first introduced in 44 Magnum/Special, and then followed by the classic .45 Colt, and a .357 Magnum/.38 Special chambering. Now, in 2025 the newest variant is the first not chambered in a revolver caliber but rather in the iconic .45-70 Government. This classic cartridge boasts a straight-walled case and was developed by the US Army over 150 years ago.

Overview of the S&W Model 1854

The Smith & Wesson Model 1854 Series provides a mixture of innovation and old west heritage. Out-of-the-box features include a 5.75-inch Picatinny base for optics mounting, an adjustable XS Sights ghost ring rear sight, a gold bead front sight, and a fixed magazine tube.

Available in two configurations, shooters have the choice of a black polymer and stainless-steel finish or a walnut stock paired with an Armornite finish. Either model has a 20-inch threaded (11/16×24) barrel, and a forged 416 stainless steel receiver along with mounts for use of a sling. The forend on the stainless-steel model offers three M-Lok compatible slots for mounting a light, laser or other accessories.

The large loop lever on the action allows for smooth operation even with gloved hands, and quick follow-up shots. The external hammer, single-action, along with a flat-faced trigger provides consistent finger placement and accuracy. Offering a 6+1 ammo capacity, the 1854 is built for the outdoors and a hunting environment.

Key features/specifications of the S&W 1854 include

• Width: 1.6 inches
• Overall Length: 37.8 inches
• Weight: 7 pounds. 2 ounces
• Barrel Length: 20 inches
• Caliber: .45-70 Gov’t
• Capacity: 6 rounds
• Action: Lever
• Furniture: Walnut or black polymer
• Front Sight: Gold bead
• Rear Sight: XS Sights ghost ring
• Optics Ready: Picatinny base
• Safety: Crossbolt
• Color/Finish: Stainless steel or Armornite
• Threaded Barrel: 11/16×24
• Barrel Material: 410 SS
• Frame: Stainless steel
• Stock: Fixed
• MSRP: $1399 (black polymer/stainless-steel)

Rang Testing the 1854

Recently I was fortunate to get the stainless-steel with polymer version of the 1854 in my hands for a tryout and I soon headed to my local gun range for a bit of live fire testing. The long-term goal will be to put the Model 1854 to use in the hunting field this upcoming fall.

Live Fire Test Results

On the range with the S&W Model 1854, I tested five varieties of 45-70 Gov’t, from 250gr up to 405gr. This testing on the range included the following.

• Hornady LEVERevolution, 250gr MonoFlex, muzzle velocity, 2025fps
• Federal Premium, Hammer Down, 300gr BSP, muzzle velocity, 1850
• Fiocchi, 300gr HPFN, muzzle velocity, 1900fps
• Hornady, 325gr FTX, muzzle velocity, 2000fps
• Remington Core-Lokt, 405gr SPCL, 1330fps

All shot well with the Hornady 325gr FTX, Hornady 250gr MonoFlex, and the Federal Premium 300gr leading the pack from a 25-yard supported rest. All of this initial testing was done with the stock iron sights on the Model 1854. The XS Sight ghost ring rear sight made sight acquisition easy and accuracy a reality.

A three-shot grouping with the Hornady 325gr was just a hair over .5 inches. The Hornady 250gr Monoflex produced an approximate .75-inch group, and the Federal 300gr Hammer Down came in with a group right at 1 inch. All five variations of 45-70 Gov’t ammo tested would no doubt be more than adequate in the hunting field for a wide variety of big game.

You definitely know you’re not shooting a lightweight rifle in the recoil department with the 45-70 Gov’t. The heavy-duty S&W recoil pad helped a lot, making felt recoil quite manageable.

Once zeroed and moving back to 50 yards it was no problem to put rounds on a steel target either supported or unsupported via the ghost ring iron sights. In preparation for a fall hunting excursion the next step will be to add a low power variable scope atop the 1854. More on that in a future write up.

Final thoughts

I like this carbine. If you’re looking for a new era lever gun that leans more to the tactical side while still offering old west appeal, the S&W Model 1854 will fill that gap. As mentioned, revolver calibers offered in the Model 1854 include the 44 Magnum/Special, .45 Colt, and .357 Magnum/.38 Special chamberings.

Without any doubt, I continue to enjoy my bolt and gas operated action rifles, but quite appreciate a short-barreled lever gun. The resurgence of the lever gun is going strong and I’m guessing it’s here to stay.

Bottom line, I am looking forward to taking this new lever gun from S&W into the field for a hunt soon. Stay tuned for additional results from the S&W Model 1854 with the addition of a low powered scope, ammunition tests, and feedback from the field.