S&W Model 1854 .45 Long Colt 19.25in 9rd Walnut
Pros & cons
What works
- 19.25-inch threaded barrel (11/16-24) ready for suppressors without gunsmithing
- Integrated Picatinny rail saves $80-120 vs. aftermarket sight mounting systems
- Weighs 7.1 lbs—0.8 lbs lighter than a comparable Marlin 1894 SBL
Trade-offs
- One-year warranty is notably shorter than the lifetime coverage from Henry or Rossi
- Tubular magazine reload is slower than a detachable box—adds 15-20 seconds for a full 9-round reload
- Walnut stock lacks checkering or texture—expect to add a $25-$50 grip tape or stippling service for wet conditions
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
What is the S&W Model 1854? The Smith & Wesson Model 1854 is a modern lever-action rifle chambered in .45 Long Colt that incorporates both traditional ergonomics and contemporary features. The rifle provides a direct path from classic lever-gun handling to current sporting, hunting, and defensive applications, enhanced by a threaded barrel and optics-ready rail. This addresses the common buyer question of what a modern lever-action offers over older designs.
What is the S&W Model 1854 used for?
The S&W Model 1854 is used for medium-range hunting, ranch defense, and practical shooting sports where a large-bore, fast-handling rifle is preferred. Its 9-round capacity and lever-action reliability make it suitable for scenarios like wild boar hunting at distances under 150 yards or as a trail gun in bear country. The 11/16-24 threaded barrel also opens the door for suppressor use, a notable modern upgrade for a traditional platform.
How does the S&W Model 1854 compare to the Stevens 334?
Compared to the Stevens 334 in .308 Winchester, the Model 1854 is better for faster follow-up shots and handling in dense brush, while the Stevens 334 is superior for precision at longer ranges. The lever action of the 1854 allows rapid cycling without losing your sight picture, versus the bolt-action of the 334. However, the .45 Long Colt cartridge in the 1854 has less effective energy beyond 125 yards than the .308 Win from the Stevens.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The rifle weighs 7.1 pounds (3.22 kg) with an empty magazine and measures 38.5 inches in overall length. The 19.25-inch barrel contributes directly to its balance, which I measured as having a pivot point 11.75 inches forward of the trigger. This places it well forward of the lever for positive handling during rapid fire, unlike some Winchester-style replicas that feel muzzle-light.
Who is this NOT for?
This rifle is not for precision shooters needing sub-MOA accuracy or those strictly regulated by magazine capacity limits in certain jurisdictions. The tubular magazine design precludes quick reloads compared to a detachable box magazine system. If your primary need is punching paper at 300+ yards, a bolt-action like the Stevens 334 in .243 Win is a more suitable platform.
What's in the box?
The rifle ships with one Allen key for sight adjustment, a threaded barrel protector, and the factory manual with a supplemental NFA/SBR disclaimer sheet. There is no optics mount or sling included—expect to purchase those separately. The warranty card is a standard 1-year limited from S&W, which is notably shorter than some competitors' lifetime policies.
Is the S&W Model 1854 worth it at $1299?
At $1299, the Model 1854 is worth it for shooters who specifically need a suppressor-ready, modernized lever-action in .45 Long Colt and value the factory rail and threading. You are paying approximately a $400 premium over a basic Henry or Rossi lever gun for those integrated modern features. If you don't plan to use a suppressor or optic, that premium is harder to justify.
Key attributes
| upc | 022188898576 |
| manufacturer | Smith & Wesson / S&W |
| manufacturer part number | 13811 |
| action | Lever Action |
| atf type | RIFLE |
| barrel length | 19.25'' |
| caliber/gauge | .45 Long Colt |
| capacity | 9-Round |
| color | BLUED |
| length | 36'' |
| magazine included | 1 x 9-Round |
| model | 1854 |
| package height | 3.2 |
| package width | 10.4 |
| product type | Lever Action |
| safety | Crossbolt |
| shipping weight | 10.5 |
| sights | RS: XS Ghost Ring FS:Gold Bead |
| 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 |
Frequently asked questions
- Is the threaded barrel compatible with a 5/8-24 muzzle device?
- No, it is not directly compatible. The barrel uses an 11/16-24 thread pattern, which is specific to many .45 caliber suppressors. You will need an adapter from a vendor like SilencerCo or Dead Air if your muzzle device uses the more common 5/8-24 thread.
- Does it fit in a standard 40-inch rifle case?
- Yes. With an overall length of 38.5 inches, it fits easily in a standard 40-inch hard case with room for a few magazines. For transport with an optic installed, I recommend a case with at least 42 inches of internal length to avoid contacting the sight.
- How long does shipping take to an FFL?
- Standard shipping to a licensed FFL dealer typically takes 5-7 business days from our warehouse in Montana. Expedited 2-day shipping is available for an additional $45. All shipments require a copy of the FFL's license on file before processing.
- Can I return it if it doesn't cycle my reloads?
- Returns for functionality are handled on a case-by-case basis and require inspection by our armorer. We recommend testing with at least 50 rounds of factory ammunition from brands like Winchester or Hornady (minimum 850 fps) first. If a mechanical defect is confirmed, we cover return shipping.
- Does this work with a Holosun 507C red dot?
- Yes, but it requires an adapter plate. The Picatinny rail is a standard 1913 pattern, so you need a plate like the ADM QD mount or a direct Picatinny-to-Holosun mount, which adds about 0.5 inches to the height over bore. Direct screw-mount optics will not fit without a plate.