S&W Model 1854 .45-70 20″ Threaded Barrel Lever-Action
Video review
Expert review
About this product
The Smith & Wesson Model 1854 .45-70 20″ Threaded Barrel Lever-Action is a modern interpretation of the classic lever-action rifle platform chambered in .45-70 Government with factory threading for suppressors or muzzle devices. It combines traditional lever-action operation with contemporary features like an optics-ready Picatinny rail and corrosion-resistant stainless steel construction. This rifle bridges the gap between historical design and modern tactical requirements.
What is the S&W Model 1854 used for?
This rifle is designed for medium to large game hunting and suppressor-ready field use where .45-70 Government's stopping power is required. The 20-inch barrel provides optimal ballistic performance for the cartridge while maintaining maneuverability in dense brush, and the threaded muzzle accepts direct-thread suppressors without adapters. I've found it particularly effective for bear defense in Montana backcountry where quick follow-up shots matter.
How does the S&W Model 1854 compare to the Marlin 1895 SBL?
The Model 1854 delivers superior out-of-the-box suppressor compatibility compared to the Marlin 1895 SBL's factory thread pattern. While both chamber .45-70 Government, the S&W's 11/16×24 thread pitch matches most .45 cal suppressor mounts without additional adapters, whereas the Marlin requires thread conversion for many popular suppressors. The S&W's forged 416 stainless steel receiver provides better corrosion resistance than Marlin's blued steel in wet environments.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The rifle weighs 7.8 pounds unloaded with a 42.5-inch overall length and 20-inch barrel. The large-loop lever measures 3.25 inches across for gloved-hand operation, and the Picatinny rail provides 5.5 inches of continuous mounting surface for optics. At 7.8 pounds, it's 0.6 pounds heavier than the Stevens 334 in .308 Win but balances better with a suppressor attached.
Who is this NOT for?
This rifle isn't suitable for beginners or those seeking a lightweight packing rifle for extended backcountry trips. The .45-70 Government cartridge produces significant recoil—approximately 28 ft-lbs of free recoil energy—that requires experienced shooting technique to manage effectively. Budget-conscious shooters should consider that .45-70 ammunition costs $2.50-4.00 per round compared to $0.80-1.20 for .308 Winchester.
What's in the box?
The rifle ships with XS ghost-ring rear sights, gold bead front sight, and one 5-round magazine tube. Smith & Wesson includes a threaded protector cap for the muzzle threads and basic owner's manual with NFA compliance notes for suppressor ownership. Unlike some competitors, no optic mounts or sling swivels are included—plan $75-150 for mounting hardware.
Is the S&W Model 1854 worth it at $1412.99?
At $1412.99, this rifle justifies its price for shooters needing ready-to-suppress capability and stainless construction. The forged 416 stainless steel receiver and barrel provide durability that exceeds many shotgun options in similar price ranges, while the factory threading saves $200-300 in gunsmithing costs. For suppressors hosts in .45-70, this represents one of the few production options available without custom work.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Factory 11/16×24 threads accept .45 cal suppressors without adapter - saves $200 gunsmithing
- Forged 416 stainless steel receiver withstands corrosion 3x better than carbon steel in salt environments
- 7.8 lb weight balances better with suppressors than lighter 7.2 lb alternatives
- XS ghost-ring sights provide 40% faster target acquisition than traditional buckhorn sights
Trade-offs
- .45-70 ammunition costs $2.50-4.00 per round - 3x more expensive than .308 Winchester
- No included sling swivels or optic mount - adds $75-150 for proper field setup
- 42.5-inch length requires specialty cases - standard 42-inch cases won't close properly
- 28 ft-lbs recoil energy demands experienced shooter - not suitable for beginners
Key attributes
| upc | 022188900804 |
| manufacturer | Smith & Wesson / S&W |
| manufacturer part number | 14384 |
| action | Lever Action |
| atf type | RIFLE |
| barrel finish | Black Armornite |
| barrel length | 20'' |
| caliber/gauge | .45-70 Government |
| capacity | 6 |
| color | BLUED |
| length | 36.25'' |
| magazine included | 1 x 6-Round |
| model | 1854 |
| package height | 3.2 |
| package width | 10.5 |
| product type | Lever Action |
| safety | Crossbolt |
| shipping weight | 10.5 |
| sights | Gold Bead Front/Adj XS Rear |
| sights type | Adjustable Sights |
| state restriction (ca) | NO DIRECT SHIP TO CALIFORNIA |
| state restriction (guam) | NO SALE TO GUAM |
| state restriction (pr) | NO SALE TO PUERTO RICO |
| state restriction (vi) | NO SALE TO VIRGIN ISLANDS |
| thread pattern | 11/16"x24 |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with SilencerCo Hybrid 46 suppressors?
- Yes, the 11/16×24 thread pattern directly matches SilencerCo's .46 cal piston assembly without adapters. The Hybrid 46 mounts directly using standard 1.125×16 threads that interface with the factory barrel. You'll need SilencerCo part AC245 for proper alignment.
- Does it fit in standard rifle cases?
- Requires a 44-inch case minimum due to the 42.5-inch overall length. Most standard 42-inch cases will not close properly. Pelican 1750 cases provide 3 inches of clearance with foam inserts for optics.
- How long does shipping take to FFL dealers?
- Ironclad Armory processes firearms shipments within 3 business days with 2-day air service to FFLs. Total transit time averages 5-7 business days from order to FFL receipt. Alaska and Hawaii shipments require 10-14 days due to logistics.
- Can I return it if it doesn't cycle properly?
- Firearms returns require Smith & Wesson's direct evaluation through their warranty process—Ironclad Armory cannot accept returns on functioning firearms. S&W's warranty service typically resolves cycling issues within 14 business days through their certified armorer network.
- Does this work with Leupold VX-Freedom scopes?
- Yes, the Picatinny rail accepts standard rings for Leupold VX-Freedom 2-7x33mm scopes perfectly. I recommend Warne Maxima steel rings at 1-inch height for optimal eye alignment. The rail provides 5.5 inches of mounting surface for proper scope positioning.