Tips for Hunting With a Tactical Lever Action Rifle
Combining classic design with modern functionality, tactical lever-action rifles (TLAR) are an excellent choice for hunters. These versatile rifles give you quick follow-up shots in tough environments.
Understanding the rifle's strengths and customizing it for different scenarios is what matters when you're interested in hunting with one of these tactical lever actions. Here's what you need to know.
Why Choose a Tactical Lever Action Rifle for Hunting?
There are several good reasons to choose a TLAR. Let's dig into a few!
Versatility
Tactical lever-action rifles bring together the best of traditional and modern hunting features. Their design suits a range of game types, from small to large, while their straightforward handling keeps them user-friendly.
Quick Follow-Up Shots
Lever actions deliver quick, successive shots. This is useful if you're hunting multiple targets or need to make a precise follow-up shot.
The lever action's smooth cycling lets you stay on target and be ready for that next shot, perfect for scenarios where precision matters.
Compact Design
With their shorter barrel lengths, many tactical lever-action rifles are easily handled in dense woods or tight spaces. If you're maneuvering through thick brush or need to get closer to your target, the compact design helps you move more quietly.
Choosing the Right Caliber
Different calibers work best in different scenarios. As important as it is to choose the right rifle for a hunt, it's also critical to choose the right ammo.
.30-30 Winchester
A .30-30 Winchester is perfect for medium-sized game like deer.
Known for its effective range and manageable recoil, it's a well-balanced option for hunters who need versatility in a caliber proven time and again.
.45-70 Government
The .45-70 Government provides significant stopping power for hunters looking to take down big game. Effective on animals like elk, bear, or moose, this caliber offers serious power to hunters who need to drop larger targets.
.357 Magnum or .44 Magnum
These calibers are perfect for hunting small to medium game like hogs at close range in brush-heavy environments. With manageable recoil and excellent performance at closer distances, they're favorites for brush hunters who prioritize power without sacrificing control.
Optics and Sights for Tactical Lever Actions
Choosing optics is the next step. Here are a few sights and scopes that work well with a tactical lever action firearm.
Red Dot or Reflex Sights
Most tactical lever actions are compatible with red dots and reflex sights.
These sights make acquiring targets easier when hunting fast-moving game at shorter ranges. They are a modern addition to the classic lever-action style, improving accuracy when it counts.
Scopes
Low-magnification scopes balance power and the lever-action's compact design for improving accuracy at longer distances. Scopes can make a real difference when you're aiming for accuracy on medium-range shots.
Iron Sights
The simplicity of iron sights remains a valuable feature for many hunters, especially in rugged environments where reliability is a must. Modern tactical lever-action models often come with improved sights.
Accessorizing Your Tactical Lever Action Rifle
Use accessories to customize your setup. Here are a few items to consider as you gather your gear for a hunt!
Sling Attachments
A sling makes carrying a rifle more comfortable during long hunts. Most models offer multiple sling attachment points to help balance the weight and reduce fatigue.
Tactical Rails for Lights
Tactical rails let you mount a flashlight or laser for improved visibility. When it's legal, having a mounted light can give you an advantage in dense woods or hunting at low-light hours.
Custom Stocks and Grips
The right grips improve comfort and handling during extended hunts for better control. Choose grips and stocks that are comfortable without impacting your control or handling of the rifle.
3 Tips for Shooting with a Tactical Lever Action
It's the little things that matter. Here are some tips to become a better hunter when using one of these rifles.
1. Practice for Smooth Lever Manipulation
Smooth lever manipulation is essential when using a lever-action rifle.
Regular practice helps you cycle the action faster and stay on target. Cycling the lever properly helps prevent jams during follow-up shots.
2. Stable Stance and Positioning
Lever-action rifles require stable positioning whether you're standing, kneeling, or using a shooting rest. Focusing on a steady stance will improve your accuracy and allow quick follow-up shots.
3. Follow Through
Good follow-through is a safety habit every hunter should develop. After taking a shot, keep your eye on the target and maintain safe control of the rifle.
When learning, it's easy to forget — but slow things down and spot landmarks where the deer runs.
Handling and Safety in the Field
Safety first is more than a catchphrase when hunting. Safety is a matter of life and death.
Practice Smooth Cycling
Lever-action rifles depend on a smooth cycling action for quick follow-up shots. Practicing at home or the range can ensure reliability in the field. The more familiar you are with the motion, the less likely you'll experience jams or missed shots during the hunt.
Mind Trigger Discipline
With any firearm, keep your finger off the trigger until you're ready to shoot. Bad habits lead to accidental discharges.
Understanding Safety Mechanisms
Modern tactical lever-action rifles often have additional safety features beyond the traditional half-cock position. Whether it's a cross-bolt safety or another mechanism, understanding these safety features and practicing with them is important.
The Best Hunting Scenarios for Lever Action Rifles
Know when to use a TLAR and what they do best. Here are a few hunts and situations that can be ideal for this type of rifle.
Hunting in Thick Brush or Woodlands
One of the strengths of a lever-action rifle is its compact design, making it ideal for dense brush or woodland hunting. The shorter barrel and easy handling make it a great choice for navigating tight areas or moving through briars.
Close to Medium-Range Hunting
Most lever-action rifles perform best within 50-150 yards. This makes them ideal for animals like deer or hogs in close to medium-range environments, where accuracy is critical, but long-range shots aren't necessary.
Hog Hunting
Tactical lever-action rifles, especially those chambered in powerful calibers like .45-70, are popular for hog hunting. The rifle's fast cycling action and stopping power make it perfect for hog hunts, where quick follow-up shots are vital.
Maintaining Your Lever Action in the Field
Maintenance is vital to performance, so stay on top of it with these tips.
Keep It Clean
Lever-action rifles can be more sensitive to dirt and debris than other firearms. Keeping the gun clean, especially after hunts in wet or muddy conditions, will help maintain its performance and prevent issues with the lever mechanism.
Regular oiling and cleaning of the action will ensure it operates smoothly.
Inspect the Lever Mechanism
The lever is the heart of this rifle, so keeping it in good condition is essential. Ensuring the lever functions is the only way to ensure it works later.
Learn More About Firearms and Safety with Hunter-Ed
Tactical lever-action rifles offer a classic feel with modern features, making them a solid option for a range of hunting situations. Whether you're navigating dense woods, hunting at close range, or targeting game like hogs, these rifles offer versatility and reliability.
Understanding the rifle's features, practicing regularly, and prioritizing safety are essential for successful and ethical hunts.
A hunter safety course through Hunter-Ed can help you develop essential skills for handling firearms like tactical lever-action rifles safely and effectively. Our online courses are state-specific and meet most requirements for hunter education! Plus, they're a fun way to learn.
Choose your rifle wisely, and select the course for your state to learn how to stay safe in the field.
