Training Technology And Innovation
TFB Review: Smith & Wesson 1854 Stealth Hunter .357 Magnum
TFB Review: Smith & Wesson 1854 Stealth Hunter .357 Magnum
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✍️By ZRIntel Editorial Team📍United States
In the past, Ive written about how the MP5 started it all for me in 1990, seeing Charlie Sheen and the boys rescue hostages, lay waste to bad guys, and likely end up with the girl
. If you dont get the reference, then congratulations, youre not old, like me. But let us not diminish another childhood LARP near and dear to all: The Cowboy . Without posting photos of myself dressed up as a kid ready to move the herd, take my word that its a real thing . That being said, cowboy work is serious business, and the backyard is an untapped frontier full of dangers that may require more authority than the caps in my toy six-shooter would provide
. By the time I was old enough, the Winchester 1873 was the apple of my eye, and I spent formative years with my Model 94 chambered in .30-30 . It wasnt until recently, however, that I recognized how much more could be done with a lever action, and that both my tactical and cowboy worlds could be forced into a collision the likes of which my credit card might deny . But when all hope seemed lost, the problem solvers at Smith & Wesson stepped up with a factory solution that floats like a butterfly without stinging at the bank, the 1854 Stealth Hunter series of rifles . Whats New? When Smith & Wesson dropped the .357 Magnum version of the 1854 Stealth Hunter earlier in 2025, I knew I had to get my hands on one
. This rifle avoids the ostentatious aesthetics of modernized lever actions while offering up all of the practical benefits in a subdued design that respects classic lines while opening the platform up to modern accoutrement . The entire rifle is finished in black, including the stainless steel frame and 410 stainless steel 16.3 barrel with a 1:14" RH twist rate . The barrel also features a green HIVIZ H3 front sight to line up with an XS Sights adjustable rear ghost ring . Below the barrel, youll find a sleek, thin-profile aluminum handguard finished in black, featuring fifteen M-LOK slots spread evenly at three, six, and nine oclock . The handguard provides ample space to mount lights, lasers, or any other accessory you may want to run. I also found that additional vents in the handguard performed as intended, allowing prolonged shooting without excessive heat buildup while providing a comfortable grip . The black synthetic stock is straightforward, keeping to classic lines while offering a cushy rubber buttpad and textured grip panels. My overall first impression is that of a well-put-together firearm . Other highlights include a serrated hammer, cross bolt safety, and a crisp flat face trigger with minimal takeup that breaks cleanly at around five pounds . The Smith & Wesson 1854 also includes a Picatinny top rail, capable of accepting anything from a small red dot to a larger traditional scope for those preferring a magnified optic
. So, what about the lever? It is larger than standard without being oversized, making the 1854 Stealth Hunter easy to manipulate . I quickly developed a rhythm while cycling the gun, and the consistent engagement made it easy to avoid short-stroking the action. Why .357 Magnum? Shooting .357 Magnum through a rifle is pleasantly smooth, and the 1854 is no exception. This caliber not only offers plenty of ammunition options, but it will also shoot .38 SPL, providing a less potent round for training new shooters . Additionally, the rifle features an eight-round capacity removable magazine tube, simplifying unloading and clearing. A lever action is also a viable alternative for home defense, particularly in restrictive states regarding semi-automatics . Smith & Wesson has made the 1854 Stealth Hunter an adaptable option for a range of needs
. During the review, I mounted a Riton 1 Tactix ARD 2 red dot and a GSL Technology Stealth suppressor, highlighting the advantages of a tactical lever action . These rifles suppress exceptionally well, as the lack of moving parts allows gasses to expand and cool within the suppressor, delivering a pleasant shooting experience. Functionally, the rifle performed without any hangups through various tests . The Smith & Wesson 1854 Stealth Hunter proved to be a reliable and enjoyable firearm, especially when complemented with the GSL suppressor and .357 ammunition. In terms of performance, I undertook velocity and accuracy testing using several loads . The outputs were impressive, with notable improvements over traditional velocities expected from shorter barrels. Both Black Hills and HOP Munitions showcased their capabilities, with accuracy demonstrating the rifle's potential using both supersonic and subsonic ammunition . Final Thoughts The Smith & Wesson 1854 Stealth Hunter has an MSRP set at $1399. This price reflects a quality product that surpasses many custom shop alternatives . The rifle not only outperformed expectations in terms of mechanics but also offered a thrilling experience reminiscent of many backyard escapades. If youre considering a modernized lever action, the 1854 Stealth Hunter is a compelling option . The combination of traditional craftsmanship and tactical functionality provides a unique proposition in the firearms market. If you already own a .357 revolver, adding this rifle to your collection should be a no-brainer . Overall, the mechanics and features of the 1854 Stealth Hunter create an exhilarating shooting platform that pays homage to classic designs while embracing necessary modern capabilities
. As manufacturers focus on catering to diverse shooting needs, Smith & Wesson introduces a product that appeals to various shooters' preferences and requirements.