Description
The Cimarron McNelly Texas Ranger Carbine 45-70 Gov, 22″ Barrel is a modern reproduction of a classic 19th-century lever-action rifle. It’s built for the shooter who wants a historically-inspired, hard-hitting big-bore carbine without the collector price tag of an original antique. Chambered in the powerful 45-70 Government cartridge, this 22-inch barreled carbine offers a blend of nostalgic design and practical, rugged performance for hunting and recreational shooting.
Key Features
- Authentic 19th-Century Styling: Based on the Winchester 1876 pattern used by the Texas Rangers, featuring a case-hardened frame and classic crescent buttplate.
- Hard-Hitting 45-70 Government Caliber: Delivers substantial power for hunting medium to large game at reasonable ranges.
- 22-Inch Barrel Configuration: Provides a handy, balanced feel that’s easier to maneuver than longer rifle versions.
- Solid Top Receiver & Side Ejection: Offers a clean sighting plane and keeps spent brass out of your face.
- Value-Focused Reproductions: Delivers the classic lever-gun experience at a price point well below many custom or premium brands.
Specifications & Details
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Caliber | 45-70 Government |
| Barrel Length | 22 Inches |
| Overall Length | Approx. 41 Inches |
| Weight | Approx. 9 lbs |
| Action | Lever Action |
| Capacity | 9+1 Rounds |
| Finish | Case-Hardened Frame, Blued Barrel |
Weighing in at roughly nine pounds, this carbine soaks up some of the stout 45-70 recoil, making it more shootable than lighter alternatives. The 22-inch barrel is a smart compromise—it’s not as long and unwieldy as a full rifle, but it gives you enough sight radius and barrel length for effective velocity. Here’s the thing—at $1215.69, this Cimarron model sits in a sweet spot. You’re getting a solid, functional piece of history that’s ready for the field, not a safe queen that costs twice as much. It ships to Missouri and compliant US states, and its classic design means it’s compatible with many standard 45-70 Government ammunition loads from brands like Remington and Hornady.
Who This Carbine Is For
This rifle is built for the practical traditionalist. It’s ideal for Missouri deer hunters who want a brush gun with authority and a connection to history. It’s also a great fit for the cowboy action shooter looking to move up into the long-range categories with a historically accurate rifle, or simply for the enthusiast who appreciates the mechanics and aesthetics of old-west firearms without the antique firearm hassles. The design is drop-in ready for these roles, requiring no gunsmithing to start enjoying it right out of the box.
Pros & Cons: The Practical Tradeoffs
Pros: You get undeniable cool factor and historical appeal at a relatively accessible price. The 45-70 caliber is versatile, capable of taking everything from whitetail to bear with the right load. The carbine length makes it quick to shoulder and easy to handle in a blind or thick cover. The solid construction and case-hardened finish are durable and age with character.
Cons: The 45-70 is not a cheap round to plink with, so budget for ammo costs. That classic crescent buttplate can be punishing on the shoulder with full-power loads—a modern shooter might find it less comfortable than a padded recoil pad. The toggle-link action isn’t as inherently strong as a modern Browning-designed lever action, so you should stick to standard pressure 45-70 loads, not the super-hot modern offerings meant for Ruger No. 1s or bolt actions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can this rifle handle modern “hot” 45-70 loads?
A: No, it is not recommended. The Cimarron McNelly is built to original 19th-century specifications. For safety and longevity, you should use standard pressure 45-70 Government ammunition equivalent to what would have been used in the late 1800s. Always consult the manufacturer’s manual for specific ammunition guidelines.
Q: Is this rifle suitable for a beginner?</n
A: That depends. A beginner to lever actions or larger calibers? Possibly, with proper instruction. However, the combination of significant recoil, higher ammunition cost, and the manual-of-arms for a lever gun makes it less ideal as a true first firearm compared to a .22LR or a milder centerfire rifle.
Q: What’s the real-world accuracy potential?</n
A: With its iron sights and traditional design, this is a practical hunting carbine, not a benchrest precision rifle. You can expect reliable minute-of-deer accuracy out to 150 yards or so in capable hands. The fixed sights are regulated for a specific load, so you may need to experiment with ammunition to find your point of impact.
If the blend of classic American history and tangible, big-bore performance appeals to you, this Cimarron McNelly carbine represents a solid value proposition. You can view its current availability and detailed specifications at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide.
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