Description
The Taylor’s Pedersoli 1886/71 Wildbuster Lever 45-70 Gov, 24″, 5 Walnut Stock is a modern, high-quality reproduction of the classic Winchester 1886 lever-action rifle. It’s built in Italy by Pedersoli and distributed by Taylor’s & Company, offering a robust and reliable platform for the powerful .45-70 Government cartridge. This model features a 24-inch barrel and a five-round capacity, all wrapped in a classic American walnut stock. It’s a serious rifle for hunters and shooters who want historical aesthetics with modern manufacturing precision, available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide.
Key Features
- Authentic Reproduction: Faithfully replicates the look and feel of the legendary Winchester 1886 action.
- Powerful .45-70 Gov Chambering: Handles everything from mild cowboy loads to heavy hunting ammunition for big game.
- Premium Walnut Stock: Features a classic, hand-finished American walnut stock and forend for a traditional appearance.
- Robust Construction: Built with modern steel and manufacturing techniques for enhanced durability and safety over originals.
- 24-Inch Barrel: Provides a good sight radius and helps manage the .45-70’s recoil, balancing weight and maneuverability.
Specifications & Details
| Caliber | .45-70 Government |
| Barrel Length | 24 Inches |
| Overall Length | Approx. 43.5 Inches |
| Capacity | 5 Rounds |
| Stock Material | American Walnut |
| Action Type | Lever Action |
Weighing in at roughly 9.5 pounds, this rifle uses its heft to its advantage. That weight soaks up a significant amount of the .45-70’s notorious recoil, making extended range sessions more manageable than with lighter replicas. The price point of $1765.87 positions it squarely in the mid-to-upper range for reproduction lever guns. Here’s the thing—you’re paying for Pedersoli’s renowned fit and finish, which often requires no gunsmithing required for a smooth, out-of-the-box experience. Compared to a vintage original in safe shooting condition, this represents a significant cost saving and comes without the concerns of shooting a century-old firearm.
Who This Rifle Is For
This Wildbuster is for the shooter who values the romance of the Old West but demands modern reliability. It’s a perfect match for the hunter pursuing elk, bear, or bison in thick timber where a powerful, fast-handling rifle is key. It’s also ideal for the metallic silhouette competitor or the collector who actually shoots their guns. If you’re a fan of classic lever actions but have been wary of original rifles’ potential issues, this modern-built version solves that problem. It ships to Missouri and compliant US states, ready for your next adventure.
Pros & Cons: The Practical Tradeoffs
Pros: You get outstanding build quality and historical accuracy from a top-tier manufacturer. The .45-70 is incredibly versatile, capable of taking any game in North America with the right load. The rifle’s weight aids in recoil management, and the 24-inch barrel offers a good balance. It’s a durable, lifetime firearm that holds its value well.
Cons: At nearly $1,800, it’s a serious investment—you could buy a modern hunting rifle and a lot of ammo for the same price. The .45-70 cartridge itself is expensive to shoot, especially for high-volume plinking. The rifle is long and not particularly handy in dense brush compared to a 20-inch model. Some might find the traditional buckhorn sights less precise than a modern aperture or optic, though it is drilled and tapped for a scope mount.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can this rifle handle modern, high-pressure .45-70 ammunition?
A: Yes, but with a critical distinction. This reproduction is built with modern steels and is proof-tested for safety with current ammunition. However, always consult the manufacturer’s manual for specific pressure limits. It is strong, but for the heaviest, most potent modern loads (like some Buffalo Bore offerings), a Ruger No. 1 or a modern Marlin 1895 might be a more conservative choice.
Q: How does it compare to a new Marlin 1895 or Henry .45-70?
A: That’s the core value question. The Marlins and Henrys are fantastic, purpose-built modern hunting rifles. The Taylor’s Pedersoli is a historical replica first. You pay a premium for that authentic 1886 aesthetic, machining, and walnut. If pure hunting performance per dollar is the goal, a Marlin might offer better “bang-for-buck.” If owning a piece of shooting history is part of the appeal, the Pedersoli wins.
Q: Is it ready to shoot right away?
A: Absolutely. These rifles are test-fired and tuned at the factory. The action is typically very smooth from the start, and the sights are installed and regulated. You will need to perform a standard field strip, cleaning, and lubrication—which is simple on this design—before your first range trip. Remember, an FFL transfer is required for firearm purchases when shipping.
For the shooter who appreciates the legacy of John Browning’s 1886 design and wants a heirloom-quality firearm that can still do real work, the Taylor’s Pedersoli Wildbuster makes a compelling case. It bridges the gap between a collector’s piece and a practical tool. See the full details and availability on our site.
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