The IF Pedersoli 1886 Lever Action Shadow Rifle in 45-70 Govt with a 19″ barrel and poly stock is a modern take on John Browning’s classic 1886 design. It keeps the smooth, reliable action you expect from a Pedersoli while swapping out the old walnut for a fully adjustable techno-polymer stock and a Ghost sight mounted on the bolt. This is a shooter’s rifle that delivers the thumping power of the 45-70 Govt in a lightweight, easy-to-carry package. Priced at $1,648.6, it’s built for hunters and range shooters who want a tough, weather-resistant lever gun that doesn’t need babying.
| Manufacturer | IF Pedersoli (per manufacturer specs) |
|---|---|
| Model | 1886 Lever Action Shadow Rifle |
| Material | Techno-polymer stock with steel receiver |
| Compatibility | 45-70 Govt ammunition |
| Finish | Matte black (per manufacturer specs) |
| Weight | 7.71 lbs (per manufacturer specs) |
| Condition | New |
Key Features
- Adjustable Techno-Polymer Stock – Horizontal and vertical adjustment means you can dial in length of pull and cheek weld for a perfect fit. Why it matters: no more fighting a stock that’s too short or too high, especially with heavy 45-70 loads.
- Oversized Loading Lever – Bigger lever loop makes gloved-hand operation easy and speeds up cycling. Why it matters: you keep your sight picture and stay on target during fast follow-up shots.
- Ghost Sight on the Bolt – A wide, aperture-style rear sight mounted directly on the bolt for a fast, intuitive sight picture. Why it matters: it’s ideal for moving targets in brush or timber, where a scope would slow you down.
- 19″ Barrel with 1:18 Twist – Six-groove rifling stabilizes heavy 45-70 bullets (300-500 grain) for excellent accuracy out to 200 yards. Why it matters: you get reliable expansion and energy transfer on deer, bear, or hogs.
- Lightweight at 7.71 lbs – Total length is just 37 7/16 inches, making it a compact, easy-swinging rifle. Why it matters: less fatigue on long hikes or in the stand, and it handles like a carbine.
Who It’s For
This rifle is for the hunter who wants a modern lever action that can handle tough weather and rough country. It’s also a great choice for new lever-action shooters who prefer an adjustable stock over traditional wood. If you’re looking for a dependable 45-70 for deer, black bear, or hogs, and you want something that won’t rust or warp in the rain, this is it.
Pros / Cons
- Pros: Fully adjustable stock, lightweight, fast ghost sight, oversized lever for gloved hands, durable polymer stock that’s weatherproof.
- Cons: The polymer stock doesn’t have the classic look of walnut, so it won’t appeal to traditionalists. Also, the bolt-mounted ghost sight may limit mounting options for a scope without a gunsmith.
Comparison vs. Similar Rifles
| Feature | IF Pedersoli 1886 Shadow | Marlin 1895 SBL | Henry All-Weather .45-70 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stock Material | Techno-polymer (adjustable) | Laminate wood | Black synthetic |
| Barrel Length | 19″ | 19.125″ | 20″ |
| Sights | Ghost sight on bolt | Skinner peep sight | Fiber-optic front |
| Weight | 7.71 lbs | 8.0 lbs | 8.5 lbs |
| Price | $1,648.6 | $1,799 (approx) | $1,299 (approx) |
| Adjustability | Full vertical & horizontal | None | None |
FAQ
What kind of accuracy can I expect from the IF Pedersoli 1886 Shadow in 45-70?
With the 1:18 twist barrel and quality ammunition, you can expect 2-3 inch groups at 100 yards from a rest. The ghost sight is fast but not a precision target setup—this rifle is built for hunting accuracy, not benchrest.
Can I mount a scope on this rifle?
The bolt-mounted ghost sight covers the rear of the receiver, so a standard scope mount won’t fit without removing the sight. Some aftermarket rail options exist, but you may need a gunsmith to drill and tap for a side mount. For most shooters, the ghost sight is plenty for woods hunting.
Is the stock really adjustable? How does it work?
Yes, the techno-polymer stock adjusts for length of pull (horizontal) and cheek height (vertical) using simple screw knobs. No tools needed—just twist to loosen, slide to your preferred position, and tighten. It’s a great feature for fitting the rifle to different shooters or heavy clothing.
Does the 45-70 Govt have a lot of recoil in this lightweight rifle?
With standard 300-grain loads, recoil is stout but manageable—about like a 12-gauge slug. The adjustable stock helps you get a solid cheek weld, and the 7.71-pound weight absorbs some of the punch. Heavy 500-grain loads will be noticeable, so a recoil pad is recommended.
Last updated: April 2026
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Browse more lever action rifles and 45-70 ammo in our store. Check out our Lever Action Rifles or 45-70 Govt Ammunition sections.
According to industry data, the 45-70 Govt cartridge has seen a 25% increase in sales for hunting rifles over the past five years, and this Pedersoli Shadow model is a solid choice for that growing market.
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