Lever-action rifles are still a solid choice for hunting, ranch work, and just plain fun at the range. The good news? You don’t have to break the bank to get one. Plenty of dependable, smooth-shooting lever guns are sitting right under that $1,000 mark. Whether you want something for deer season or just a handy rifle for the truck, there are affordable options out there. Here are thirteen lever-action rifles that give you plenty of performance without draining your wallet.
Rossi R92
The Rossi R92 stays popular because it’s affordable and surprisingly fun to shoot. It’s based on the classic Winchester 1892 design but comes at a much lower price. Available in pistol calibers like .357 Magnum and .44 Magnum, it’s versatile enough for hunting or range time. The action smooths out after some use, and aftermarket upgrades are easy to find. For under $1,000, it’s hard to beat the R92 for an entry-level lever gun.
Henry Big Boy Brass
The Henry Big Boy Brass offers old-school looks with solid performance. It runs well with pistol calibers like .357, .44, or .45 Colt. The brass receiver adds some eye appeal, but the action stays smooth, and the accuracy is more than enough for hunting distances. It’s tube-fed and doesn’t have a side loading gate, but many shooters don’t mind once they see how well it runs. For a handsome, affordable lever-action, it’s an easy pick.
Henry Lever Action .22
If you want a budget-friendly lever gun for plinking or small game, the Henry .22 is a classic. It’s lightweight, easy to use, and cycles reliably with .22 LR, Long, or Short rounds. The smooth action makes it a favorite for teaching new shooters. It’s also a fun little rifle to keep handy around the property. For the price, it’s tough to find anything more enjoyable to shoot, especially if you’re after simplicity and reliability.
Marlin 336
With Marlin back in action under Ruger, the 336 has made a strong return. You can still find older used 336s under $1,000, and they’re some of the best deer rifles around. Chambered in .30-30, it’s a reliable brush gun with easy handling and proven performance. The action is sturdy, the sights are simple, and it’s tough enough for years of use. For budget-friendly big-game hunting, the 336 keeps holding its own.
Winchester 94 (Used)
While new Winchester 94s are over a grand, plenty of used models are well under. The 94 is one of the most famous lever-actions ever made, and it handles beautifully in the woods. Chambered in .30-30, it’s light, quick, and perfect for close-range hunting. Many used rifles are still in great condition, and parts remain easy to find. If you like classic handling without a steep price, used 94s are always worth checking out.
Henry X Model .357 Magnum
The Henry X Model brings some modern features without a big price tag. You get synthetic furniture, a side loading gate, and threaded barrels ready for a suppressor. Chambered in .357 Magnum, it’s great for hunting or home defense. The action is smooth, and the rifle handles well without extra weight. For shooters wanting a budget-friendly rifle with practical upgrades, the X Model delivers without going past the thousand-dollar line.
Citadel Levtac-92
The Citadel Levtac-92 offers a modern twist on the lever-action design. It’s got M-LOK slots on the forend, a side loading gate, and chamber options like .357 Magnum and .44 Magnum. The action might feel a little rough out of the box but smooths up with use. It’s one of the more affordable tactical-style lever guns and works well for those wanting something a little different without spending a fortune.
Henry All-Weather .45-70 (Used)
Brand new, the Henry All-Weather .45-70 can sneak above $1,000, but lightly used versions often sit below that mark. It’s a hard-hitting lever gun built for tough conditions. The stainless finish and synthetic stock handle rain, snow, and mud easily. It’s a favorite for folks chasing big game in rough weather. If you want a durable, powerful lever gun and keep your eyes open, you can find these at fair prices.
Rossi Rio Bravo
The Rossi Rio Bravo is an affordable .22 lever gun that works great for casual shooting. It features a smooth action, synthetic stock, and adjustable sights. While it’s built to a price point, it holds up well for plinking, target practice, or small-game hunting. Many shooters like it because it’s lightweight, reliable, and doesn’t require much maintenance. For a fun rimfire lever-action under $1,000, it’s a solid option that won’t drain your budget.
Henry Side Gate .30-30
Henry’s Side Gate .30-30 offers the best of both worlds with tube loading and a side loading gate. It’s accurate, smooth, and built to take on hunting duties. You get walnut furniture, iron sights, and a blued finish that holds up well. It’s priced comfortably under $1,000 and gives hunters a solid alternative to older Marlins or Winchesters. For a no-fuss deer rifle with modern build quality, it’s hard to go wrong here.
Rossi R95 .30-30
The Rossi R95 gives budget-minded hunters a new option in the lever-action market. Chambered in .30-30, it’s built with simplicity in mind and keeps the price well under $1,000. The action is serviceable out of the box and smooths up nicely after break-in. It’s great for whitetail season or just having an affordable rifle for the woods. For folks wanting a simple, affordable hunting rifle without worrying about wear and tear, it’s a solid choice.
Henry Classic Lever .22 Magnum
The Henry Classic .22 Magnum offers a little more punch than standard .22 LR rifles. It’s great for varmint control or small game and stays well below the thousand-dollar mark. The action is famously smooth, and the sights are easy to use. Many people like it because it’s accurate, reliable, and doesn’t kick much. For something handy around the property with a little extra range, the .22 Magnum version stays a favorite.
Marlin Model 1894 (Used)
New Marlin 1894s can run high, but used ones often land comfortably under $1,000. Chambered in pistol calibers, they’re light, fast, and fun to shoot. They make excellent hunting or truck guns, and their compact size makes them easy to carry. Many shooters enjoy the smooth cycling and classic feel. For those wanting a proven lever-action without overspending, older 1894s are always worth a look if you find one in decent shape.
*This article was developed with AI-powered tools and has been carefully reviewed by our editors.
