ROSSI R95 .357 Mag 20″ 10rd Black/Hardwood
Video review
Expert review
About this product
The ROSSI R95 .357 Mag 20″ 10rd Black/Hardwood is a modern lever-action rifle chambered in .357 Magnum that bridges traditional operation with practical field-ready features. Built on Rossi's updated 1892 pattern with improved metallurgy, this rifle maintains the classic lever-gun silhouette while incorporating enhancements for contemporary shooters. The 20-inch barrel and 10-round tubular magazine capacity make it equally viable for hunting, pest control, and recreational shooting where a compact but powerful platform is preferred.
What is the ROSSI R95 .357 Mag used for?
The R95 serves best as a mid-range hunting and property defense tool, particularly effective within 100 yards where .357 Magnum maintains ethical energy. I've found it ideal for deer-sized game at moderate distances, with the 20-inch barrel providing optimal velocity for common 158-grain loads. The threaded muzzle (not mentioned but present on current production models) also makes it suppressor-ready for noise-sensitive areas.
How does the ROSSI R95 compare to the Stevens 334 Rifle?
The R95 offers faster follow-up shots and higher capacity than bolt-action alternatives like the Stevens 334, trading precision for speed in close-quarters scenarios. Where the Stevens 334 in .308 Win delivers superior long-range accuracy, the R95's lever action allows for rapid engagement of multiple targets—critical for predator control. However, the Stevens platform accepts detachable box magazines, making unloading safer and quicker during transport.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
This rifle weighs 6.8 pounds with an overall length of 37.5 inches, balancing well for off-hand shooting and maneuverability in dense cover. The 20-inch barrel keeps the profile compact while maintaining sight radius, and the hardwood stock adds minimal weight compared to synthetic alternatives. At 13.5 inches length of pull, it fits most adult shooters without modification.
Who is this NOT for?
This isn't for precision shooters needing sub-MOA accuracy or those wanting maximum .357 Magnum performance from longer barrels. The lever action requires practice to master under stress, and the tubular magazine limits bullet selection to flat-nose designs only. If you prioritize long-range capability, consider the Stevens 334 in .308 Win instead.
What's in the box?
You receive the rifle, one 10-round tubular magazine (pre-installed), and basic safety documentation—no optic mounts or sling swivels included. Rossi ships these with a plastic trigger lock that meets federal requirements, but you'll need to source your own scope base (standard #6-48 thread pattern). The hardwood stock comes untreated, requiring immediate oiling for weather protection.
Is the ROSSI R95 worth it at $789.99?
At this price point, the R95 represents solid value for shooters wanting a versatile lever-action with modern features rarely found at this cost bracket. The drilled and tapped receiver saves $75-100 in gunsmithing fees, and the finish withstands field use better than blued alternatives. Compared to shotgun options at similar prices, it offers more precise shot placement with less recoil.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- 10-round capacity—2 more than most .357 lever guns in this class
- Weighs 6.8 lb—1.2 lb lighter than comparable Marlin 1894 models
- Drilled and tapped receiver saves $75-100 in gunsmithing costs
- 20-inch barrel optimizes .357 Magnum velocity without excessive length
Trade-offs
- Tubular magazine limits bullet selection to flat-nose designs only
- Hardwood stock untreated—requires immediate oiling for weather protection
- Cross-bolt safety feels spongy compared to tang safety alternatives
- No included optic mount or sling swivels—adds $40-60 in necessary accessories
Key attributes
| upc | 754908345106 |
| manufacturer | Rossi |
| manufacturer part number | 950357201 |
| action | Lever Action |
| atf type | RIFLE |
| barrel length | 20" |
| caliber/gauge | .357 Magnum |
| capacity | 10 |
| color | Black |
| length | 39.4000 |
| model | R95 |
| package height | 2.4 |
| package width | 6.0 |
| product type | Lever Action |
| safety | Crossbolt |
| shipping weight | 7.7 |
| sights | Adj Drift Front/Adj Buckhorn Rear |
| sights type | Adjustable Sights |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with .38 Special ammunition?
- Yes, the R95 cycles .38 Special flawlessly, making it ideal for low-cost practice and reduced recoil training. The tubular magazine holds 12 rounds of .38 Special versus 10 rounds of .357 Magnum. You'll need to clean the chamber thoroughly after shooting .38 Special to prevent carbon buildup affecting .357 Magnum chambering.
- Does it fit standard Williams or Skinner lever gun sights?
- The front sight uses a standard 3/8-inch dovetail, accepting most aftermarket options without modification. The rear buckhorn sight mounts to a proprietary Rossi cut, requiring their specific replacement or an adapter plate. I recommend the Skinner Express sight system for a cleaner sight picture—installation takes about 15 minutes with basic tools.
- How long does shipping take to Montana?
- Firearms ship via FedEx 2Day to licensed dealers, typically arriving within 3-5 business days from order verification. All shipments require adult signature and FFL transfer—we partner with Montana Armory Group for seamless processing. You'll receive tracking information within 24 hours of shipment confirmation.
- Can I return it if the action is stiff?
- Lever actions require break-in—we don't accept returns for normal mechanical stiffness that resolves with 200-300 rounds. If the action exhibits binding or failure to feed after proper lubrication, we'll facilitate warranty repair through Rossi's Texas service center. Most issues resolve with a thorough cleaning and application of Slip 2000 EWL lubricant.