The Smith & Wesson 1854 is a lever-action rifle chambered in .45-70 Govt with a 20-inch stainless steel threaded barrel and a stainless steel receiver. It holds 6+1 rounds and has a fixed black synthetic stock. A Picatinny rail sits on top of the receiver, and the barrel ships with a thread protector. 
 

Key Specifications 

• Brand: Smith & Wesson 
• Model: 1854 
• Caliber: .45-70 Govt 
• Action: Lever Action 
• Capacity: 6+1 
• Barrel Length: 20" 
• Color/Finish: Black Synthetic Stock / Stainless Receiver and Barrel 
   

Detailed Features 

• 20-inch stainless threaded barrel with thread protector included 
• Stainless steel receiver with top Picatinny rail for optic mounting 
• Fixed black synthetic stock 
• Large loop lever 
• XS Ghost Ring rear sight and Gold Bead front sight 
• Cross bolt safety

Owners of the 1854 in .45-70 Govt appreciate the combination of a modern chassis, a synthetic stock, and a threaded barrel on a classic lever-action platform. The Picatinny rail is a frequently cited selling point for those who want a scope or red dot without drilling into a stainless receiver.

Recoil with full-power .45-70 loads is the most consistent topic in owner feedback. Shooters who work up to heavier loads from lighter starting rounds find the rifle manageable, while those who open with hot loads report the synthetic stock transmits more felt recoil than a wood alternative would. The large loop lever gets good marks for gloved use.

The 1854 sits at a price point that some owners feel is justified by S&W's warranty and the threaded stainless barrel, while others think lever-action alternatives at a lower price offer comparable features. The cross bolt safety draws mild criticism from traditional lever-action fans but is largely accepted by practical users.