First Impressions: Smith & Wesson Model 1854 in .45-70 Gov't

It's an old-school rifle in an old-school chambering, but with the modern features and accuracy the new school demands.

by
posted on April 12, 2025
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
Smith Wesson Model 1854 45 70 Govt

Great news for lever-gun fans: Smith & Wesson's wildly popular Model 1854 (full review here) is now available in the time-honored .45-70 Government rifle cartridge. The company first introduced the series in a paired synthetic black polymer and stainless-steel finish, as well as an Armornite and walnut furniture combination, across several pistol calibers including .44 Rem Mag, .45 Colt, and .357 Magnum. Starting today, you can own one of these smooth lever guns chambered in a rifle caliber for extra reach and terminal performance.

Whether you’re hunting big game in deep woods or looking for a more modern lever-action platform, the Smith & Wesson Model 1854 Series provides the perfect blend of heritage and innovation. These new rifles have a 6+1 capacity, a forged 416 stainless steel receiver and 20" 410 stainless steel barrel, with an 11/16-24 thread pattern for suppressor use. Their large loop lever is constructed for smooth operation, allowing for quicker follow-up shots, while their flat trigger design allows for consistent finger placement to support accuracy.

The Model 1854 .45-70 rifles come equipped with several out-of-the-box features such as a 5¾" Picatinny base for optics mounting, an adjustable XS Sights ghost ring rear sight, a gold bead front sight, and a fixed magazine tube. The forend on the stainless-steel model offers three M-LOK compatible slots for the user’s preferred accessories and both variants incorporate mounts for the addition of a sling. Smith-Wesson.com

Latest

Nra Virtual Townhall Lede
Nra Virtual Townhall Lede

Watch: NRA CEO Hamlin & President Bachenberg Hold Our First Virtual Townhall

"When President Bachenberg and I were elected, we pledged to rebuild the trust of our members, donors, and industry."

Reviewed: Daniel Defense 9mm Pistol-Caliber Carbine

Nimble, adjustable, accurate, and nicely outfitted, this PCC impresses.

From Pond to Pan, Frog-Hunting is Great Summer Fun

Get your gig, airgun, or .22 rifle and head for the water on a summer night and come away with some great eating!

First Impressions: CZ P-10 C Ported Pistol

Built for everyday carry and range performance, this new addition to CZ's lineup offers reduced recoil and other features new shooters will love.

Kyle Lamb Named Brand Ambassador for NRA America’s Rifle Challenge

"When I heard about the ARC program, its focus on the AR, and the NRA’s desire to provide AR training and ARC competitions, I wanted to be involved."

Y.E.S! NRA Foundation Awards $13,500 in College Scholarships

We're proud to announce the award recipients from the Y.E.S. Class of 2024!

Interests



Get the best of NRA Family delivered to your inbox.