Lever Action 45-70 Side Gate ALL Weather Rifle with Picatinny TOP Rail

Kansas Gunshop is a Wichita, KS-based retailer specializing in firearms and accessories. The Lever Action 45-70 Side Gate All Weather Rifle with Picatinny Top Rail is a robust, modern take on a classic big-bore rifle. Its side gate loading and Picatinny rail offer significant versatility. Available now for $799.00.

What makes this 45-70 lever action rifle stand out?

This isn’t your granddad’s lever gun, not entirely anyway. While it maintains the classic lines and the potent .45-70 Government cartridge, this particular model incorporates some modern features that make it a seriously practical tool for hunting or general utility. The side loading gate is a big one; it means you can top off the magazine tube without having to cycle the action or unload from the front, which is a real convenience in the field. The ‘All Weather’ designation isn’t just marketing fluff either. These rifles are built to shrug off the elements, which is important when you’re out in the Kansas plains during deer season or dealing with unpredictable weather.

Then there’s the Picatinny top rail. For a traditional lever action, this is a significant upgrade. It opens up a whole world of optics options, from red dots for fast target acquisition in brush to low-power variable optics for longer shots. You’re not stuck with just open sights, though those are still there and functional. It’s about giving the shooter choices, and that’s something I appreciate.

What are the key features of this rifle?

• .45-70 Government Chambering: A powerful, time-tested cartridge suitable for large game across North America. It hits hard and is effective.
• Side Gate Loading: Allows for quick and easy reloading or topping off the magazine without interrupting your sight picture or needing to cycle the action fully. This is a huge practical advantage in the field.
• All-Weather Construction: Designed with materials and finishes that resist corrosion and stand up to harsh environmental conditions, making it reliable in rain, snow, or humid environments.
• Integrated Picatinny Top Rail: Provides a versatile and secure platform for mounting a wide array of optics, from red dot sights to traditional scopes, significantly enhancing the rifle’s adaptability.
• Classic Lever Action Design: Retains the familiar ergonomics and reliable action of a traditional lever gun, offering a comfortable and intuitive shooting experience.
• Robust Sights: Comes equipped with functional iron sights, often adjustable, providing a backup or alternative to mounted optics.
• Modernized Ergonomics: While classic in action, many ‘All Weather’ models feature synthetic stocks that are durable and offer improved grip in wet conditions.

Who is this rifle designed for?

This lever action 45-70 side gate all weather rifle with picatinny top rail is for someone who appreciates the history and reliability of a lever action but isn’t afraid of modern enhancements. It’s a serious tool for big game hunters who might encounter challenging weather or need quick follow-up shots. Think deer, elk, or even bear in heavy cover where a powerful, fast-handling rifle is key. It’s also suitable for those who want a robust, versatile rifle for property defense or as a general-purpose utility firearm that can handle anything you throw at it. If you’re a fan of the .45-70 cartridge and want to push its capabilities with modern optics, this is a solid choice.

What are the pros and cons of this model?

Pros:

• ✅ Powerful Cartridge: The .45-70 Government is a proven stopper for large game and offers significant terminal ballistics.
• ✅ Convenient Loading: The side loading gate is a major practical upgrade, allowing for quick reloads without cycling the action.
• ✅ Weather Resistant: Built to endure harsh conditions, making it a reliable choice for hunting in any environment.
• ✅ Optics Ready: The Picatinny rail offers immense versatility for mounting scopes, red dots, or other aiming devices.
• ✅ Classic Feel, Modern Utility: Combines the traditional lever action experience with modern features that enhance performance.
• ✅ Durable Construction: Generally built with robust materials and finishes that stand up to hard use.

Cons:

• ❌ Recoil: The .45-70 Government can generate significant recoil, especially with hotter loads, which might be a deterrent for some shooters. Consider a recoil pad if this is a concern.
• ❌ Ammunition Cost: .45-70 ammunition can be more expensive than common rifle calibers like .30-06 or .308. Reloading can mitigate this.
• ❌ Weight: While not excessively heavy, it’s generally heavier than some modern bolt-action rifles, which could be a factor on long treks.

How does it compare to other rifles?

Who should buy this rifle?

Buy it if:

• You’re a serious big game hunter who needs a powerful, reliable rifle that can handle tough conditions.
• You appreciate the classic lever action design but want the versatility of modern optics.
• You’re looking for a robust, all-around utility rifle for ranch work, property defense, or general outdoor use.
• You want a .45-70 Government rifle with convenient side loading capabilities.
• You live in an area with dense brush where quick, powerful shots are often necessary.

Skip it if:

• You are highly sensitive to recoil and prefer a lighter-recoiling cartridge. Consider a .223/5.56 rifle or a .308 rifle instead.
• You prioritize extreme long-range precision shooting over close-to-medium range power. A bolt-action rifle might be a better fit.
• You are on a very strict budget and need the absolute cheapest .45-70 option available, though this model offers good value for its features.
• You prefer a purely traditional lever action without any modern features like a Picatinny rail.

Frequently Asked Questions

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