2.7 Lever-Action Rifles

Lever-Action: Lever-action rifles use a lever to load cartridges and unload empty cases. Pull the lever downward, away from the stock and forward until it stops, and then pull it back up toward the stock. Working the lever moves cartridges from the magazine into the chamber. It also cocks the hammer for firing.

Once a lever-action gun is cocked, the only way to uncock it is to hold the hammer and squeeze the trigger. This is very difficult for beginning shooters to do! Uncocking lever-action guns requires skill, strength, and practice! Not all shooters can handle this firearm safely.

Many lever-action rifles have tubular magazines. Some lever-action rifles have box magazines. Use only flat-nosed bullets in tubular magazines!

Safety Tip

Lever-action guns are difficult guns for beginning shooters to use! It is hard for beginning shooters to tell when lever-action guns are loaded. Work the action until no more cartridges are ejected. Then open the action, and inspect the chamber to see if the magazine follower is visible. Keep your finger away from the trigger unless you are ready to shoot!

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Official hunting safety course for Washington hunters last modified: April 5, 2010
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