Lever-action rifles are classics of North American hunting: fast, reliable, and with a charm we all know from cowboy movies. In Canada, lever-actions hold a special place. For established hunters, they’re part of traditional hunting as they’re compact and designed for rough weather. And for beginners, they’re a perfect way to start a hunting journey, as they’re comfortable to use.
What makes lever-actions so timeless is their versatility. Whether you want a .30-30 deer gun, revolver calibres like .44 Magnum for close-quarters brush hunts or quick follow-up shots on moving targets, or a wallet-friendly .22 for plinking, Canada’s dealers carry a nice mix of heritage and modern takes.
Rifles Worth Your Attention
It wouldn’t be fair not to offer you some recommendations on which rifle to get. So, here are some quick, practical picks, which will help you choose the best lever-action rifles.
Henry
Henry .22 LR Golden Boy
- Type / Calibre: Rimfire – .22 LR
- Best for: Plinking, small-game, and beginners.
- Key features: Brass-look receiver, octagonal barrel, walnut stock, tubular magazine (high capacity).
- Why it stands out: Light recoil, cheap ammo, and that classic lever feel make it an addictive first lever rifle. Perfect for backyard fun or quiet mornings chasing rabbits.
Henry Silver Boy (.22 WMR) / Varmint Express (.17 HMR)
- Type / Calibre: Rimfire – .22 WMR and .17 HMR options.
- Best for: Varmint control, longer-range rimfire work, more precise plinking.
- Key features: Same solid Henry build with higher-velocity cartridges for flatter trajectories.
- Why it stands out: Gives useful extra reach and terminal performance for ground squirrels, coyotes at distance, or tougher small game.
Henry Big Boy / Mare’s Leg Variants
- Type / Calibre: Centerfire – commonly .357/.44/.30-30 options depending on the model.
- Best for: Brush-country hunting, camp guns, general-purpose centerfire lever use.
- Key features: Robust receivers, polished finishes, options for shortened “Mare’s Leg” configurations.
- Why it stands out: Combines classy looks and dependable action with real stopping power. A lever that’s as comfortable at the range as in tight, thicker cover.
Chiappa
Chiappa 1892 (Various Builds)
- Type / Calibre: Centerfire – frequently in .44 Magnum, .45 Long Colt, and rimfire variants.
- Best for: Close-range big-hit situations, range fun.
- Key features: Winchester-style 1892 profile, short-carbine options, modern elements.
- Why it stands out: Strong enough for serious hits in brush, but styled to work perfectly at the range.
Chiappa 1886 (.45-70 Government)
- Type / Calibre: Big-bore lever – .45-70 Government.
- Best for: Big-game hunting and deep penetration.
- Key features: Traditional heavy frame, long-throat chambering, classic lines with modern production quality.
- Why it stands out: If you need raw stopping power for large game, the 1886 hits a niche few modern lever guns cover. It’s heavy, deliberate, and effective.
Citadel
Citadel LEVTAC-92 Series
- Type / Calibre: Centerfire – .44 Rem Mag and other magnum offerings.
- Best for: Modernised lever builds, accessory-equipped brush rifles, tactical-style lever users.
- Key features: M-LOK forends, synthetic stocks, threaded muzzles, peep sights.
- Why it stands out: For shooters who want a traditional classic lever that is modern at the same time.
Where to Shop in Canada for Lever-Action Rifles
But now that you know what to buy, it’s time we told you where to buy it.
Canfirearm: Your First Stop for Selection and Deals
If there’s a store that’s worth checking, it’s definitely Canfirearm. They’ve built a reputation as a go-to online destination for Canadian hunters, and for good reason. Their website is clean, easy to navigate, and constantly updated with new stock and deals.
Here’s why CanFirearm really earns the top spot:
- Wide selection from lever-action classics like the Marlin 336 to rimfire plinkers (and of course, all the rifles we listed can be found on their website).
- Accessories such as scopes, ammo, slings, cleaning kits, and all in one place, so you don’t have to jump from one website to another.
- Regular sales on both firearms and gear pop up frequently, making it easier to purchase the rifle you want at a better price.
- Canada-focused, so you don’t have to worry about cross-border headaches.
- Convenient, because, let’s be honest, sometimes the best way to start hunting is from your couch with a coffee, scrolling through listings.
If you want a reliable, one-stop spot to pick out a lever-action that actually suits your hunting style, CanFirearm makes that process straightforward.
Conclusion
Lever-action rifles carry a history that feels alive every time you work the lever, whether you’re sighting in on a deer in thick brush or ringing steel on a Sunday afternoon. Everything is important when choosing the one for you. Did you match the cartridge to the job? Or have you gotten the right license for it? Don’t skip the research before getting your hands on something you wouldn’t be able to use right away.
And just as important as the rifle itself is where you buy it. Each of the rifles above is or has been listed in Canfirearm’s lever-action section, so you won’t have to bounce between multiple stores chasing pieces. So don’t overthink it: work the lever, feel the balance, and let the rifle choose you.
