The .22 Magnum might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think lever-action, but there are some solid options out there. Whether you’re knocking down varmints, plinking for fun, or just like the feel of a lever gun with a little extra punch over .22 LR, these rifles hold their own. Here’s a list of ten lever-actions chambered in .22 WMR that are worth checking out.
Henry Frontier .22 Magnum
This one’s a fan favorite for good reason. The octagon barrel gives it some classic lever-gun vibes, and the accuracy is surprisingly solid for the price. It feeds smooth and holds a good number of rounds, so you’re not reloading every few minutes.
Henry’s slick action and consistent build quality show up strong here. It’s a no-fuss rifle that does what it’s supposed to—great for the range or around the property. Plus, the walnut furniture just feels right in the hands.
Marlin Model 57M (used)
If you find one of these older Marlins at a gun show or shop, don’t overlook it. The 57M has a short-throw “MicroGroove” action that’s fast and light, and it cycles .22 Magnum surprisingly well for something built decades ago.
It’s tube-fed and usually wears a slim profile, making it easy to carry. The trigger might not be match-grade, but it’s plenty crisp for most folks just wanting a reliable rimfire lever gun.
Winchester 9422M (used)
This one’s a classic, and it’s priced like one too—if you can find it. The 9422M has that old-school Winchester quality that collectors and shooters still hunt for. It’s smooth, accurate, and built to last.
It’s got a solid heft and tight machining, and the fit and finish hold up even after years of use. Not the cheapest option on the list, but it earns its keep with reliability and nostalgia.
Henry Golden Boy .22 Magnum
The Golden Boy’s got some flash with its brass receiver, but it’s more than just looks. It runs .22 WMR smoothly and offers a nice weight that helps settle the rifle for accurate shots.
It’s a great choice if you want something that looks good and performs without drama. The balance feels good in hand, and the lever throw is easy enough for just about anyone to enjoy on the range.
Henry Lever Action Magnum Express
This version of the Henry lever gun skips the iron sights and gives you a clean receiver-top Picatinny rail instead. It’s set up specifically for scoped shooting, which helps get the most out of the .22 Magnum round.
It’s great if you’re mainly hunting small game and want tighter groups at longer ranges. Same smooth action and build quality Henry is known for, just tailored for shooters who want to go straight to glass.
Henry Small Game Carbine .22 Magnum
This one’s purpose-built with the small-game hunter in mind. It’s got a peep sight, a shorter barrel, and a checkered stock that gives you a little more grip when your hands are cold or sweaty.
The accuracy’s there, and the controls feel natural—just point and shoot. It’s especially nice if you’re on foot and don’t want to lug around something full-sized all afternoon.
Rossi Rio Bravo .22 Magnum (if available)
Rossi’s Rio Bravo in .22 LR gets more attention, but they’ve dipped into .22 Magnum versions on occasion. If you spot one, it’s worth a look. They’re affordable, and once tuned a bit, they run pretty well.
It’s not as polished as some others, but if you’re looking for a .22 WMR lever gun without spending Henry or Winchester money, it might scratch that itch. Keep in mind, fit and finish vary.
Henry Classic Lever Action .22 Magnum
This one keeps it simple. No octagon barrel, no brass receiver—just a straightforward .22 Magnum lever gun that works. It’s lighter than some of Henry’s other models, which makes it easy to carry all day.
The action’s smooth, the accuracy’s solid, and it handles everything from paper targets to pests without a fuss. If you want a basic lever gun that won’t break the bank, this one’s an easy pick.
Uberti Silverboy .22 Magnum
Uberti’s known for cowboy-style guns, and the Silverboy fits that niche. It’s not a common sight at most gun stores, but it’s a solid little shooter with some flare and a stainless-look receiver that stands out.
Performance-wise, it’s decent out of the box, and while it may not be the first pick for hard use, it’s a good one for collectors or anyone wanting something a bit different in the lever-action .22 Magnum space.
*This article was developed with AI-powered tools and has been carefully reviewed by our editors.
