The Taylors and Company 1886 Journey .45-70 19″ lever action rifle is a purpose-built field gun for hunters who demand reliability and terminal performance from a classic cartridge. Chambered in .45-70 Government with a 19-inch threaded barrel, this lever gun pairs the traditional Browning action with a synthetic camo stock, adjustable cheekrest, and a larger loop lever for gloved operation. The receiver is drilled and tapped for optics, and the platform ships with fiber-optic front and peep rear sights. According to Taylors and Company specs, the rifle weighs approximately 7.5 pounds, making it a viable option for extended backcountry carries.
| Manufacturer | Taylors and Company |
|---|---|
| Model | 1886 Journey |
| Caliber | .45-70 Government |
| Barrel Length | 19 inches (threaded 5/8-24) |
| Stock | Synthetic camo with adjustable cheekrest |
| Action | Lever action, Browning-style |
| Finish | Blued steel |
| Weight | 7.5 lbs (per manufacturer specs) |
| Condition | New |
Key Features
- Threaded 19″ Barrel: Allows direct attachment of suppressors or muzzle devices, reducing recoil and noise in the field.
- Adjustable Cheekrest: Enables a consistent cheek weld with or without optics, improving accuracy on follow-up shots.
- Large Loop Lever: Facilitates smooth cycling while wearing gloves or in cold weather, critical for maintaining fire rate in adverse conditions.
- Drilled and Tapped Receiver: Accepts aftermarket optics without gunsmithing, giving you the flexibility to run a red dot or low-power variable.
- Fiber-Optic Front Sight: Provides a bright aiming reference in low light, complementing the peep rear for rapid target acquisition.
Who It’s For
The 1886 Journey is built for hunters and outdoorsmen who need a hard-hitting lever gun that can handle suppressor use and modern optics. It suits shooters who value the .45-70 Government round for its energy on medium to large game and want a rifle that performs in wet, cold, or dirty conditions. Law enforcement and military personnel looking for a backup or specialty rifle will appreciate the threaded barrel and optic-ready platform.
Pros and Cons
Pros: Threaded barrel for suppressor compatibility; adjustable cheekrest for optic use; large loop lever for gloved hands; proven Browning action handles heavy loads; fiber-optic sights for low-light shooting.
Cons: The synthetic stock lacks the warmth and traditional aesthetic of wood, which may deter purists. Additionally, the 19-inch barrel limits velocity compared to longer tubes, though it remains effective within standard hunting distances.
Comparison vs. Competitors
| Feature | Taylors 1886 Journey | Marlin 1895 SBL | Henry Big Boy X |
|---|---|---|---|
| Caliber | .45-70 Government | .45-70 Government | .45-70 Government |
| Barrel Length | 19″ (threaded) | 19.125″ (threaded) | 17.4″ (threaded) |
| Stock | Synthetic camo, adjustable cheekrest | Laminate wood, adjustable cheekrest | Synthetic black, fixed comb |
| Action | Browning-style lever | Marlin 336-style lever | Henry side-gate lever |
| Weight | 7.5 lbs | 7.5 lbs | 7.2 lbs |
| Price (MSRP) | $2,023 | $1,849 | $1,180 |
FAQ
Is the 1886 Journey suppressor-ready out of the box?
Yes. The 19-inch barrel is threaded 5/8-24 with a factory-installed thread protector. You can mount a direct-thread suppressor or muzzle brake immediately.
Can I mount a scope without a gunsmith?
Yes. The receiver is drilled and tapped for optics. You can install a rail or rings directly, using the included screws.
What type of ammunition does the .45-70 Journey handle?
The action is rated for standard-pressure .45-70 Government loads, including 300-grain to 405-grain projectiles. Do not use Ruger-only or +P loads unless the manufacturer explicitly approves.
Does the adjustable cheekrest work with both irons and optics?
Yes. The cheekrest adjusts vertically to align your eye with iron sights or a mounted optic. It locks in place with a simple thumbscrew.
How does the 19″ barrel affect ballistics?
Compared to a 22-inch barrel, you lose roughly 100-150 fps with standard loads. The trade-off is improved maneuverability and suppressor compatibility, which is preferred for brush hunting and tactical use.
Why Buy from Us
- ✓ Nationwide delivery (all 50 states)
- ✓ Ships 1-2 business days
- ✓ 30-day returns
- ✓ Secure checkout
Last updated: April 2026
Statistic: Lever-action rifles account for roughly 12% of the U.S. hunting rifle market, with .45-70 being one of the fastest-growing calibers in this segment (per NSSF data).
Explore more lever-action options: Lever Action Rifles | .45-70 Rifles | Taylors and Company
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