There’s a timeless appeal to the lever-action rifle, an echo of the Old West that sparks a sense of adventure. We were looking for an air rifle that could capture that classic spirit—something for casual backyard plinking that was fun for experienced shooters but also safe and simple enough to introduce to a new generation. The goal was to find a rifle that delivered on nostalgia without the expense or hassle of CO2 cartridges, a reliable tool for honing marksmanship and simply having a good time.
- AIR RIFLE KIT - Perfect your marksmanship with this easy to pump, realistic looking, classic feeling BB gun fit for youth and adults. Built with...
- CO2 CARTRIDGES NOT NEEDED - Pumping is a breeze thanks to our long lever arm and built in spring action. The cast iron lever acts as your pump arm. 1-10...
What to Consider Before Buying a Lever-Action Air Rifle
Before you dive into the world of classic-style air rifles, it’s important to know what you’re looking for. The ideal user for a model like the Barra 1866 Lever Action Air Rifle is someone who values the experience of shooting over raw, semi-automatic firepower. This includes families looking for a starter rifle, enthusiasts who love the historical aesthetic, and anyone who wants a low-maintenance plinker. Key factors to consider are the power source—multi-pump pneumatic rifles like this one offer variable power and freedom from CO2 canisters, but require effort for every shot. You should also consider the ammunition type; the flexibility to shoot both BBs for casual fun and pellets for greater accuracy is a significant advantage. Finally, think about build quality. A rifle with a solid, weighty feel enhances the entire experience, making it feel less like a toy and more like a proper piece of equipment. If these factors align with your needs, the Barra 1866 is a compelling option worth a closer look.
While the Barra 1866 Lever Action Air Rifle is an excellent choice, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:
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- DURABLE, WATER PROOF SYNTHETIC DESIGN - With rifled steel barrel, built-in BB reservoir and side-load pellet chamber
First Impressions: Solid, Substantial, and Ready to Go
Unboxing the Barra 1866 Lever Action Air Rifle, the first thing we noticed was its surprising weight. At nearly 7 pounds, it has a substantial heft that immediately defies the “bb gun” expectation. This isn’t flimsy plastic; the metal barrel and cast iron pump lever provide a satisfying, realistic feel. This initial impression was echoed by one user who was “pleasantly surprised” by how heavy it was. The silver finish on our model was clean and eye-catching, evoking the classic “silver boy” rifles of legend. As a complete starter kit, it comes with everything you need to start shooting right away: safety glasses, a tin of .177 pellets, and paper targets. This all-in-one package makes it an exceptional value for beginners and a great gift.
What We Like
- Authentic Weight and Feel: Has a substantial, non-toy-like heft that enhances the shooting experience.
- No CO2 Required: The multi-pump pneumatic system offers variable power and eliminates ongoing canister costs.
- Dual Ammunition: Shoots both .177 pellets for accuracy and steel BBs for high-capacity plinking.
- Impressive Power: Capable of reaching up to 800 FPS, providing plenty of power for target shooting.
- Effective Safety Mechanism: A well-designed safety that is easy to use and provides peace of mind.
What We Didn’t Like
- Pumping Can Be Tedious: Manually pumping 3-10 times for every shot can become tiresome during long sessions.
- Some Plastic Components: While key parts are metal, the use of plastic in the frame may detract from the feel for some purists.
A Deep Dive into the Barra 1866’s Performance
After our initial impressions, we put the Barra 1866 Lever Action Air Rifle through its paces to see if its performance matched its promising looks. We tested its power, accuracy, and overall usability in a series of backyard target sessions.
Design and Build Quality
The build quality is where this rifle first wins you over. The combination of a metal barrel and a sturdy cast iron lever gives it a durable core. While the receiver is plastic, it’s well-molded and doesn’t feel cheap. The silver finish is evenly applied and adds to the classic aesthetic. This blend of materials keeps the rifle affordable and manageable, while still providing that satisfying weight that both we and other users appreciated. It feels balanced in the hands, making it comfortable to hold and aim for extended periods.
Power Plant: The Multi-Pump System
At the heart of the Barra 1866 is its multi-pump pneumatic power system. This is a huge advantage for anyone who wants to shoot without stocking up on CO2 cartridges. The power is directly proportional to your effort: 3-4 pumps are perfect for quiet, low-power plinking, while ramping up to the maximum 10 pumps unleashes the full 800 FPS velocity for longer-range targets. This variable power makes it incredibly versatile. However, we must agree with the user who found the pumping “tidious.” For every single shot, you are working the lever multiple times. This deliberate, manual action is part of the classic shooting experience, but it’s a stark contrast to semi-auto CO2 rifles.
Accuracy and Sights
We found Barra’s claim of 1.2-inch groups at 25 yards to be achievable with quality pellets and a steady hand. The rifle is inherently accurate, thanks to its rifled steel barrel. The included iron sights are basic but functional, with the rear sight being adjustable for elevation, allowing you to dial in your shots effectively. For a rifle in this category, the out-of-the-box accuracy is impressive and more than sufficient for tin cans, paper targets, and small pest control. The consistent power delivery from the pump system contributes significantly to this reliable performance. For a complete kit that delivers this level of accuracy, the value is undeniable.
Dual Ammunition Versatility
One of the standout features is its ability to shoot both BBs and pellets. The built-in reservoir holds up to 50 BBs, making it a blast for rapid-fire (as fast as you can pump and shoot) plinking sessions. For more serious target practice, you can load single .177 caliber pellets. This flexibility is fantastic, allowing you to switch from casual fun to precision shooting without changing your rifle. The loading port for pellets is easy to access, and the BB loading process is straightforward.
What Other Users Are Saying
Our findings align closely with the general user sentiment. We weren’t the only ones impressed by the solid construction. One user noted they “expected very little for the price” but were “pleasantly surprised” by the rifle’s weight and power, also highlighting the well-designed safety as a key selling point. On the other hand, the primary drawback we identified was also a common theme. The multi-pump nature isn’t for everyone, with another user remarking that “pumping 3-4 time for each fire is tidious,” a feeling we share, especially for those accustomed to faster-firing air guns.
How Does the Barra 1866 Compare to Alternatives?
The Barra 1866 Lever Action Air Rifle occupies a wonderful niche, but it’s helpful to see how it stacks up against other popular air rifles with different features and functions.
1. Umarex Legends MP Blowback Metal BB Air Rifle
- 52-shot, .177 caliber BB air gun with realistic blowback action; Semi-auto and full-auto shooting modes
- Powered by two 12-gram CO2 cartridges (CO2 NOT included. To ensure a proper seal and for best performance, Umarex-brand CO2 is recommended.)
The Umarex Legends MP is all about a different kind of fun. It’s a CO2-powered, full-metal replica of a German submachine gun that offers blowback action and a high-capacity magazine. If you’re looking for rapid-fire, tactical-style shooting, the Umarex is the clear choice. The Barra 1866, in contrast, offers a slower, more deliberate, and classic shooting experience powered by your own effort, with the added benefit of pellet accuracy.
2. Umarex Browning Pellet Air Rifle
- 19-shot, .177 caliber BB air pistol
- Powered by a 12-gram CO2 cartridge (CO2 NOT included)
The Browning Pellet Air Rifle is another lever-action but represents a step up in power and purpose. Chambered in .22 caliber and boasting higher velocities, it’s geared more towards serious small game hunting and pest control. It’s a more powerful, and typically more expensive, tool for dedicated tasks. The Barra 1866 is more of a versatile, recreational rifle, perfect for family fun and target practice with its dual ammo capability and lower power threshold.
3. Gamo Daisy Powerline Model 35 BB/Pellet Gun
- 625 feet per second at full charge (10 pumps)
- Features a classy stock and forearm
The Daisy Powerline 35 is perhaps the most direct competitor. It’s a legendary multi-pump air rifle that also shoots both BBs and pellets. For many, it was their first air gun. The primary difference comes down to aesthetics and feel. The Daisy has a more contemporary, utilitarian design, whereas the Barra 1866 Lever Action Air Rifle is built specifically to capture the iconic look and feel of a Cowboy-era repeating rifle, making it the superior choice for lovers of westerns and classic firearms.
Our Final Verdict: Is the Barra 1866 Worth It?
Absolutely. The Barra 1866 Lever Action Air Rifle is a fantastic choice for anyone seeking a blend of nostalgia, performance, and value. It excels as a backyard plinker, a training tool for new shooters, and a fun piece for any collection. Its solid build, impressive accuracy, and freedom from CO2 cartridges make it a standout in its class. While the manual pumping requires effort, it’s part of the engaging, classic experience this rifle is designed to deliver. It’s a well-built, accurate, and incredibly fun air rifle that punches well above its price point.
If you’ve decided the Barra 1866 Lever Action Air Rifle is the right fit, you can check its current price and purchase it here.
Last update on 2025-10-09 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API