Lever-action rifles hold a unique place in the hearts of firearms enthusiasts, evoking a sense of nostalgia and romanticism. These iconic firearms significantly shaped American history. Today, they're experiencing a positive resurgence with the advent of newly made lever-action rifles.

While the allure of owning a classic lever-action is undeniable, there are several compelling reasons to consider purchasing a newly made rifle. In this blog, we will explore how modern iterations are reviving the charm of this classic design. Plus, we'll look closer at Bond Arms' new LVRB, which we expect to release towards the end of 2023.

Pros of Choosing a Modern Lever-Action Rifle

Lever-action rifles have a rich history that spans over a century, and they continue to capture the interest of firearm enthusiasts today. Here are some positives of choosing a modern lever-action rifle over an older classic.

Enhanced Manufacturing Techniques and Materials

One of the significant advantages of newly made lever-action rifles is the use of advanced manufacturing techniques and modern materials. Manufacturers today employ precision machinery and cutting-edge technologies to create rifles with tighter tolerances, improved durability, and increased reliability. High-quality materials, such as stainless steel and polymer composites, enhance longevity, corrosion resistance, and overall ruggedness.

Improved Ergonomics and Handling

Newly-made lever-action rifles often feature ergonomic enhancements that improve comfort and handling. Manufacturers have made strides in refining stock designs, grip angles, and overall balance, making these firearms more user-friendly. Whether you're shooting for extended periods or navigating challenging terrain, the improved ergonomics of modern lever-action rifles offer enhanced control and reduced fatigue.

Enhanced Accuracy and Performance

Advancements in barrel manufacturing and ammunition technology have led to notable improvements in the accuracy and performance of lever-action rifles. Modern barrels with tighter tolerances and improved rifling techniques enhance bullet stabilization and greater precision downrange. Additionally, ammunition manufacturers have developed specialized loads that maximize the potential of lever-action rifles, delivering better ballistics and improved terminal performance.

Increased Capacity and Versatility

While classic lever-action rifles are often associated with a tube magazine under the barrel, many newly made models offer increased capacity and versatility. Manufacturers now produce lever-action rifles with detachable box magazines, allowing for faster reloading and larger cartridge capacities. This improvement enhances the rifle's practicality for hunting, sport shooting, and self-defense.

Wider Range of Caliber Options

Newly-made lever-action rifles often come in a broader range of calibers, catering to firearm enthusiasts' diverse needs and preferences. Whether looking for a traditional .30-30 Winchester or more powerful options like .45-70 Government or .357 Magnum, modern lever-action rifles offer an extensive selection to suit various shooting applications.

Accessibility and Availability

Unlike classic lever-action rifles that may be limited in supply or subject to collector's premiums, newly made ones are generally more accessible and readily available. Manufacturers produce these firearms in greater quantities, ensuring a more consistent market supply. This accessibility makes it easier for enthusiasts to purchase and enjoy a lever-action rifle without facing the challenges of locating and acquiring an older model.

Could You Combine the Lever Action Rifle and AR-15 Platforms?

The lever action rifle and the AR-15 are two iconic American firearms that have left an indelible mark on the nation's history and culture. With its roots in the Wild West, the lever action rifle embodies the pioneering spirit and rugged individualism that defined America's expansion across the frontier. Its distinctive lever mechanism, smooth action, and timeless aesthetic make it a symbol of tradition and nostalgia.

On the other hand, the AR-15, born out of military innovation, represents modern firearm technology and adaptability. With its modular design, lightweight construction, customizations, and wide availability of accessories, the AR-15 has become a symbol of versatility, self-defense, and recreational shooting in contemporary American society.

Both firearms have their unique place in American firearms heritage, captivating enthusiasts with their respective histories and capabilities. But is it mechanically possible to combine aspects from both? Technically, yes.

The Latest Innovation from Bond Arms Inc.

In 2019, Bond Arms delved into enhancing the features and performance of lever-action rifles. Recognizing that most lever-action guns had a lengthy lever throw, they were intrigued by the idea of implementing a Short Lever Throw that reduced the length and offered a smoother cycling experience compared to the traditional long throw. Fascinated by the AR market advancements over the past six decades, they sought to incorporate these new technologies into a magazine-fed lever-action system.

However, their initial excitement quickly encountered a challenge. Cycling a 5-round magazine proved relatively straightforward, but attempting the same with a 30-round magazine seemed nearly impossible. Undeterred, they dedicated over a year to redesigning the lever system, determined to overcome this obstacle.

Eventually, they devised a remarkably clever cam system that effectively and aggressively extracted rounds from a 30-round magazine without any difficulties. This mechanical breakthrough allowed for the smooth operation of cycling even the longest rounds and enabled them to achieve a very short lever throw, enhancing the overall shooting experience.

Introducing the Bond Arms LVRB

While not currently available, this rifle represents a compelling example of the enduring appeal of lever-action firearms. Bond Arms plans to launch it in 2023 to provide shooters with an AR-15 compatible lever-action lower pairing with a standard upper. While the concept may seem simple, its execution involves intricate innovation, particularly in the linkage system required to cycle 30-round magazines effectively.

What sets this rifle apart from its competitors is its short lever throw enabling rapid cycling, combined with a clever camming mechanism that efficiently extracts rounds from the chamber and strips tightly packed rounds from high-capacity magazines. From a mechanical perspective, this design is truly fascinating. Gordon Bond states, _"This might just be the shortest, sweetest, crispest trigger, lever gun they have ever held." _

The projected pricing for this complete system is around $1,499, although the final price is yet to be determined as the company continues to refine the concept for production. Like the POF Tombstone, the Bond Arms Lever Action utilizes the Magpul SGA 870 buttstock, meaning that you can easily swap any Remington 870 compatible stock into its place.

One notable feature of this rifle is the user-configurable lever loop, allowing shooters to customize it by opting for a larger loop if desired. Furthermore, the AR-15 mix-and-match modularity of this lever-action rifle holds the promise of spawning intriguing configurations as shooters experiment with the platform, further adding to its appeal and versatility.

LVRB-Specific Features:

Here are some specific features of the Bond Arms LVRB:

• Rotating Bolt: The rifle incorporates a rotating bolt mechanism, ensuring strength and precision in its operation.

• Modern Cartridge Chambering: The gun's design accommodates modern cartridges, offering compatibility with a wide range of ammunition options.

• User Configurability and Modification: The LVRB allows users to configure and modify the firearm according to their preferences, enhancing versatility and customization.

• **Utilization of Modern Materials: **The rifle incorporates modern materials, ensuring durability and reliability while reducing weight. The result is a lever-action rifle that shares compatibility with components from the AR-15 platform, particularly in critical areas such as barrels, bolts, and magazines. Although it can utilize AR-15 upper receivers and handguards, the design also allows for optimization specific to this application. For instance, it eliminates the gas system and positions sighting systems closer to the bore, enhancing overall performance.

LVRB Additional Features:

• Controls: The LVRB features a linkage system that provides a magazine release location and feel familiar to AR-15 shooters, with the added benefit of ambidextrous operation.

• Safeties: The firearm incorporates the out-of-battery safety inherent in conventional AR-15 bolt carriers and manual and grip safeties for enhanced safety measures.

• Lever Loop/Stock: The lever loop can be user-configured to match personal preferences, and Remington 870 stocks are readily available on the market.

• Compliance: Despite initially being designed as a suppressor host, providing quiet and agile handling and enabling full capacity in short barrel configurations (unlike traditional lever actions), the manual action of the LVRB inadvertently resulted in compliance with regulations in restrictive states.

• Caliber: While we expect the initial launch to include chamberings in 5.56 and 300 Blackout, the platform can support any chamber.

Classic Appeal or Adaptability?

As we eagerly await the release of the Bond Arms LVRB and other innovative lever-action rifles, it's clear that these firearms are experiencing a positive resurgence. Their blend of tradition, nostalgia, and modern advancements make them a compelling choice for firearm enthusiasts. There's no reason you can't enjoy both classic appeal and adaptability in your firearms of choice.

Ammo Planet is the ultimate destination when finding the perfect ammunition and accessories for your lever-action rifles and AR-15s. With our extensive selection and user-friendly interface, we cater to the diverse needs of firearm owners. Whether you're seeking specialty calibers, high-quality magazines, or other accessories, Ammo Planet offers a convenient and reliable platform to enhance your shooting experience.