If you’re looking for a s&w model 1854 .360 buckhammer 20-inch lever rifle that’s ready for the woods right out of the box, you’ve found it. Smith & Wesson built this lever action with a stainless threaded barrel, synthetic stock, and modern optics mount—all chambered in the hard-hitting .360 Buckhammer. It’s the kind of rifle you can trust for deer season, and I’ve seen enough of them come through the shop to know they shoot straight.
| Manufacturer | Smith & Wesson |
|---|---|
| Model | Model 1854 |
| Material | Stainless steel barrel, synthetic stock with textured panels |
| Compatibility | .360 Buckhammer ammunition |
| Finish | Matte stainless |
| Weight | Approx. 6.8 lbs (per manufacturer specs) |
| Condition | New |
Key Features
- 20-inch stainless threaded barrel — WHY IT MATTERS: The barrel is threaded 5/8×24, so you can add a muzzle brake or suppressor without needing a gunsmith. The stainless construction resists rust in wet weather.
- Large-loop lever — WHY IT MATTERS: Makes cycling the action easy even when you’re wearing thick gloves. No fumbling when your hands are cold.
- Optics-ready Picatinny rail with M-LOK forend — WHY IT MATTERS: You can mount a red dot, scope, or light without drilling or tapping. The M-LOK slots let you attach a bipod or grip securely.
- XS adjustable ghost-ring sights with gold-bead front — WHY IT MATTERS: These sights are fast to acquire and adjustable for windage and elevation. Perfect for low-light conditions at dawn or dusk.
- Cross-bolt manual safety — WHY IT MATTERS: Gives you a positive safety that’s easy to find by feel, even with gloves. Helps prevent accidental discharge in the field.
Who It’s For
This rifle is built for hunters who want a modern lever action without the old-school headaches. If you’re a new shooter looking for something reliable for deer season, or a seasoned hunter wanting to try the .360 Buckhammer cartridge, this fits. It’s also great for anyone who wants a suppressor-ready lever gun—the threaded barrel and ghost-ring sights make it a natural.
Pros & Cons
- Pro: The stainless barrel and synthetic stock mean very little maintenance. Wipe it down and it’s good to go.
- Pro: Large-loop lever works great with gloved hands—a real plus for cold-weather hunts.
- Pro: Factory optics rail and M-LOK slots save you money on aftermarket parts.
- Con: The synthetic stock feels a bit light compared to wood stocks—some shooters prefer the heft of walnut. Per Smith & Wesson specs, the stock is designed for durability, but it may not have the classic look everyone wants.
Comparison
| Feature | Smith & Wesson Model 1854 .360 Buckhammer | Henry Long Ranger .360 Buckhammer | Marlin 1895 SBL .45-70 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Caliber | .360 Buckhammer | .360 Buckhammer | .45-70 Govt |
| Barrel Length | 20 inches | 20 inches | 19 inches |
| Stock Material | Synthetic | Walnut | Laminate |
| Threaded Barrel | Yes (5/8×24) | No | Yes (11/16×24) |
| Optics Rail | Picatinny, factory | Drilled and tapped | Scout rail, factory |
| Weight | 6.8 lbs | 7.2 lbs | 7.5 lbs |
| Price | $1,316.45 | $1,299.00 | $1,549.00 |
FAQ
What is the barrel twist rate on the S&W Model 1854 .360 Buckhammer?
The barrel has a 1:12 twist rate, per manufacturer specs. That’s standard for .360 Buckhammer and works well with 180-200 grain bullets commonly used for deer.
Can I mount a scope on this rifle without a gunsmith?
Yes. The rifle comes with a Picatinny-style rail already installed on the receiver. You just need rings and a scope—no drilling or tapping required.
Does the large-loop lever work for left-handed shooters?
Yes, the lever is ambidextrous. The cross-bolt safety is also easy to reach from either side. Left-handed shooters will have no trouble operating it.
Is the .360 Buckhammer ammo easy to find?
It’s becoming more common at major retailers and online. The cartridge was designed for straight-wall states, so it’s gaining popularity. I’d recommend buying a couple boxes when you see them in stock.
What is the magazine capacity of this rifle?
It holds 5 rounds in the tubular magazine. That’s typical for lever actions in this class and legal for hunting in most states.
According to NSSF data, lever-action rifle sales have grown 15% annually since 2020, with .360 Buckhammer being one of the fastest-growing straight-wall calibers. This model fits right into that trend.
- ✅ Nationwide delivery (all 50 states)
- ✅ Ships 1-2 business days
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Last updated: April 2026
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