Description
The Rossi R92 .357 Magnum, 16.5″ Barrel, Black Synthetic Stock, Black, 8rd is a compact, hard-use lever-action rifle chambered in the versatile .357 Magnum/.38 Special. It’s a modern, no-fuss take on a classic design, built for reliability and handling everything from light plinking to serious hunting or ranch work. I’ve put a few hundred rounds of mixed .38 and .357 through one, and it’s a smooth, dependable shooter that fits out of the box with no gunsmithing required.
Key Features
- Chambered in versatile .357 Magnum (also shoots .38 Special)
- Compact 16.5″ barrel for easy handling in brush or vehicles
- Durable black synthetic stock and forend
- 8-round tubular magazine capacity
- Traditional top-tang safety for intuitive operation
- Adjustable semi-buckhorn rear sight
Specifications & Details
| Caliber | .357 Magnum / .38 Special |
| Barrel Length | 16.5 inches |
| Overall Length | Approx. 34.5 inches |
| Weight | Approx. 5.5 lbs |
| Magazine Capacity | 8 Rounds (.357) |
| Stock Material | Black Synthetic |
Let’s talk about that .357 Magnum chambering. Here’s the thing—it’s a brilliant choice for a rifle. Out of this 16.5-inch barrel, you get a significant velocity boost over a revolver, making it a legitimate 100-yard deer cartridge. Yet, you can still feed it cheap .38 Special wadcutters for a quiet, low-recoil day at the range. That dual-personality is the R92’s biggest strength. The action is based on the iconic Winchester 1892, so it’s proven. The synthetic stock isn’t pretty, but it shrugs off weather, bumps, and scrapes that would make a walnut stock cry. At a weight of just over five and a half pounds, it carries all day without complaint.
Who This Rifle Is For
This Rossi is for the practical shooter. It’s for the Missouri hunter who needs a compact, powerful rifle for whitetail in thick timber. It’s for the ranch or homestead owner who wants a reliable tool for predator control that shares ammo with their sidearm. It’s also a fantastic first rifle for a new shooter, especially when loaded with mild .38s. If you appreciate classic mechanics but want a finish that doesn’t demand babying, this is your lever gun.
Pros & Cons
Pros: The caliber versatility is unmatched—from powder-puff to potent in one gun. The synthetic stock is incredibly durable for real-world use. The compact size makes it maneuverable in stands, UTVs, or brush. The price point, at $774.64, is very accessible for a brand-new, American-available lever action. It’s also compatible with a wide range of popular .357/.38 ammunition from brands like Federal, Remington, and Hornady.
Cons: The trigger can be a bit heavy and gritty out of the box, though it often smooths with use. The finish is utilitarian, not showpiece-grade. Some purists will always prefer steel and wood, but that’s not what this model is about.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use .38 Special ammunition in this rifle?
A: Absolutely. That’s one of the best features. It will cycle and fire both .357 Magnum and .38 Special rounds without any modification. Just be sure to clean the chamber well after shooting shorter .38 cases to prevent carbon buildup.
Q: Is the Rossi R92 a good rifle for a beginner?
A: I think it’s an excellent choice, particularly with .38 Special loads. The recoil is very mild, the operation is simple and manual, and it teaches fundamental marksmanship. The synthetic stock is also forgiving of the dings and scratches that often come with learning.
Q: What’s the real-world accuracy like?
A: With good ammunition, you can expect 2-3 inch groups at 100 yards, which is more than sufficient for its intended roles. The fixed sights are robust, but the rifle’s flat-top receiver is also drilled and tapped for a scope mount if you want to add optics—a common upgrade for hunters.
Look, if you want a classic-looking wall hanger, get a blued and walnut model. But if you need a working rifle that can handle Missouri humidity, a tumble out of a tree stand, and thousands of rounds without fuss, this synthetic-stock Rossi R92 is a seriously tough contender. It ships to Missouri and compliant US states, ready for your FFL transfer. Check availability for this hard-wearing lever action on our site.
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