| Dphariss |
| (.300 member) |
| 04/03/08 05:40 AM |
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Re: Lever actions, uniquely American hunting rifles?
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Quote:
Is the Lever Action a uniquely American hunting rifle?
Of the many types of action seen and used around the world, the lever action seems to be the most popular in the States, and indeed seems to have the strongest historical links to North America as well.
Is this true?
The LA is still pretty popular in the west. Good saddle gun. Remember the LA started here as the first repeater with the Henry at the start of the American Civil War. It became a necessary item for defense in the west though the early models were underpowered for hunting and many people had a Sharps or other powerhouse along for this and other long range work. The advent of the 1876 Winchester, the 1881 Marlin and the 1886 Winchester changed this.
They were flat, worked good horseback, provided needed firepower in a often hostile part of the world. They were first and best repeaters. They were reliable and fast to fire repeat shots. Everything needed for self defense at the time.
The Colt slide action was a very good design but the action could be worked by sliding it in and out of a saddle scabbard. The LA would not.
OOPs almost forgot. Most hunters here (Montana) use the bolt action and have for quite some time.
Dan