8 Best Air Rifles With Lever Actions 2025 in the United States

The Daisy Adult Red Ryder BB Rifle .177 is a classic choice for those looking into lever-action air rifles, perfect for plinking or small game hunting. With a caliber of 0.177 and a velocity of 350 ft/sec, it offers decent performance for casual shooting. Weighing only 2.95 pounds, it's lightweight and easy to handle, making it a solid option for adults. The rifle features a metal frame and barrel, contributing to its durability and build quality, which is appreciated by users. The wood finish gives it a traditional look, enhancing its aesthetic appeal.

However, it does have its limitations. The velocity is relatively modest compared to higher-end air rifles, which may not meet the needs of more experienced shooters looking for higher power. Additionally, while the sights are functional, they may not satisfy users looking for advanced optics or precise aiming options. The design is tailored for adults, which means it might not be suitable for younger or smaller users without adult supervision.

The Daisy Adult Red Ryder BB Rifle is a reliable entry-level option for those interested in lever-action air rifles, ideal for casual shooters and those who appreciate classic designs. Serious hunters or experienced marksmen may want to consider models with higher velocity and more advanced sighting systems.

The Umarex Marlin Lever Action Rifle .177 Caliber BB Gun Air Rifle is a great option for those looking for a fun and nostalgic shooting experience with a classic lever action mechanism. The officially licensed Marlin BB rifle shoots .177 caliber steel BBs and offers a velocity of up to 300 FPS, which is decent for casual target shooting and plinking. One of its key strengths is the ease of use with an easy-to-load BB fill port that holds up to 650 rounds, allowing for extended shooting sessions without frequent reloading.

The adjustable rear sight and textured grips add to the usability and comfort of the rifle, making it more user-friendly for beginners and experienced shooters alike. The lightweight polymer stock with a classic faux wood finish gives it an authentic look and feel, while keeping the weight manageable at 1.54 kilograms. However, the build quality, being primarily polymer with a metal barrel, might not appeal to those looking for a more robust, all-metal construction.

The spring-piston power source is reliable but might not offer the same consistency and power as some other air rifle types. Additionally, with a velocity of 300 FPS, this air rifle may not be suitable for more serious or competitive shooting. The Umarex Marlin Lever Action Rifle is best suited for those seeking a lightweight, easy-to-use, and affordable air rifle for recreational shooting and enjoying the nostalgia of a lever action mechanism.

The Springfield Armory M1A Underlever Pellet Rifle in .22 caliber is a solid choice for those interested in target shooting and small game hunting. Its classic design, reminiscent of the M14, features a durable wood stock and a smooth finish, giving it an authentic and high-quality feel. The steel metal barrel adds to its robustness, while the rubber insert in the recoil pad enhances safety during use.

One of the standout features of this rifle is its underlever action, which simplifies the cocking process, though it does require a significant effort of about 35 lbs to cock. The anti-bear-trap safety mechanism is particularly valuable for beginners, preventing the loading chamber from closing during pellet loading, and the two-stage trigger allows for more controlled firing. The spring-piston power source ensures a high velocity, with the .22-caliber version reaching up to 800 fps, making it effective for its intended uses.

Weighing in at 9.9 pounds, it is on the heavier side, which could be a drawback for prolonged use or for younger users. While the build quality is generally high, the inclusion of some plastic components might be less appealing to those expecting an entirely metal construction. Given its combination of power, safety features, and classic design, this pellet rifle is well-suited for hobbyists and those new to air rifles, though the weight and cocking effort should be considered.