First Impressions of Midwest Industries Smith & Wesson 1854 Lever Rifle Stock
The lever-action rifle, a true icon of American firearms, has seen a resurgence in popularity lately. And with that resurgence, innovative companies like Midwest Industries are stepping up to modernize these classic platforms. The Midwest Industries Smith & Wesson 1854 Lever Rifle Stock promises to bring a blend of modern ergonomics and tactical adaptability to the new S&W lever gun, which could be a game-changer for lever-action enthusiasts.
Having spent years tinkering with and customizing various tactical rifles, shotguns, and pistols, the lever-action world felt ripe for a modern upgrade. My old wooden stock on my Marlin felt like it was built for another era, and it certainly was! I needed a stock that could accommodate modern optics, provide a more comfortable shooting experience, and offer enhanced accessory mounting options.
Upon unboxing the Midwest Industries Smith & Wesson 1854 Lever Rifle Stock, the immediate impression was one of quality. The 6061 aluminum stock beam felt incredibly solid, and the polymer cheek piece offered a tactile sense of adjustability. The fit and finish were superb, suggesting a product that could withstand the rigors of heavy use.
Compared to other aftermarket lever-action stocks I’ve seen, which often feel like cheap plastic add-ons, this offering from Midwest Industries felt substantial and well-engineered. I’d considered a chassis system from another manufacturer, but those often add significant weight. The Midwest Industries option seemed to strike a better balance between functionality and weight savings, which was a major factor in my decision. I was also considering the Magpul stock, but the M-LOK compatibility and adjustable cheek piece on the Midwest Industries stock ultimately swayed me.
My initial excitement was high. This stock looks very promising, and if it performs as well as it looks, it could completely transform the shooting experience with my Smith & Wesson 1854.
Real-World Testing: Putting Midwest Industries Smith & Wesson 1854 Lever Rifle Stock to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place at my local shooting range, primarily focusing on target acquisition and overall comfort. The range offered a variety of distances, allowing me to evaluate the stock’s impact on accuracy. I was testing the stock by shooting various targets from 25 to 100 yards.
Even in the bright sunlight and moderate temperatures, the Midwest Industries stock performed admirably. The adjustable cheek piece allowed for a perfect cheek weld when using a red dot sight. This made for noticeably quicker and more consistent target acquisition.
The biggest surprise was the improved recoil management. The Midwest Industries butt pad significantly reduced felt recoil compared to the factory stock. Even after several hours of shooting, I experienced minimal shoulder fatigue.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, including a weekend hunting trip in damp conditions, the Midwest Industries Smith & Wesson 1854 Lever Rifle Stock has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of significant wear or tear. The anodized finish has proven to be extremely durable.
Cleaning is surprisingly easy. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually all that’s needed to remove dirt and grime. The polymer cheek piece is also resistant to staining and cleans up easily.
Compared to my previous experiences with wood stocks, which required regular oiling and were prone to warping in humid conditions, the Midwest Industries stock has been a breath of fresh air. It has consistently outperformed my expectations in terms of durability and ease of maintenance.
Breaking Down the Features of Midwest Industries Smith & Wesson 1854 Lever Rifle Stock
Specifications
The Midwest Industries Smith & Wesson 1854 Lever Rifle Stock is designed specifically for the Smith & Wesson 1854 lever-action rifle. The black color provides a sleek and modern aesthetic.
The stock maintains the factory length of pull, ensuring a familiar and comfortable fit for most users. It is constructed with a 6061 aluminum grip and stock beam, finished with a hard coat anodization for enhanced durability. This material choice offers an excellent balance of strength and weight.
Here are some key specifications:
- Manufacturer: Midwest Industries
- Gun Type: Rifle
- Gun Make: Smith & Wesson
- Gun Model: Smith & Wesson 1854
- Color: Black
- Action Type: Lever Action
- Country of Origin: USA
- Weight of Complete Unit: 1lb 8oz.
These specifications are crucial for understanding the stock’s overall performance and suitability for various shooting scenarios. The aluminum construction ensures a rigid and stable platform, while the black finish provides excellent corrosion resistance.
Performance & Functionality
The Midwest Industries Smith & Wesson 1854 Lever Rifle Stock excels in both performance and functionality. The adjustable cheek piece is a standout feature. It allows users to customize the stock to their preferred optic height.
The ambidextrous design caters to both left- and right-handed shooters. The multiple QD swivel sockets provide versatile sling attachment options.
However, some users might find the factory length of pull to be slightly short. Spacer plates are available as an add-on for those who require a longer length of pull. This modularity adds to the stock’s overall versatility.
Overall, the stock meets and often exceeds expectations. It enhances the ergonomics and adaptability of the Smith & Wesson 1854 lever-action rifle.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Midwest Industries Smith & Wesson 1854 Lever Rifle Stock prioritizes both aesthetics and ergonomics. The grip panels are uniquely designed by Midwest Industries. They provide ample texture, even in wet or snowy conditions.
The stock maintains a comfortable weight balance. The 1lb 8oz weight does not significantly alter the rifle’s overall feel.
The intuitive design means there is virtually no learning curve. The stock feels natural and comfortable from the moment you install it.
Durability & Maintenance
The Midwest Industries Smith & Wesson 1854 Lever Rifle Stock is built to last. The hard coat anodized aluminum construction ensures long-term durability.
Maintenance is minimal. A simple wipe-down with a cloth is usually sufficient to keep the stock clean and functioning properly.
With proper care, this stock should easily last for many years. The lifetime warranty from Midwest Industries provides additional peace of mind.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Midwest Industries Smith & Wesson 1854 Lever Rifle Stock offers a range of customization options. The M-LOK compatible slots on either side of the stock allow for the attachment of accessories. These include Midwest Industries Universal Shell Holders or other M-LOK panels for enhanced aesthetics.
The adjustable cheek piece is a significant customization feature. It allows users to fine-tune their cheek weld for optimal sight alignment.
While no specific accessories are included with the stock, its compatibility with M-LOK accessories makes it highly versatile. Users can easily add lights, lasers, or other tactical accessories to enhance their rifle’s functionality.
Pros and Cons of Midwest Industries Smith & Wesson 1854 Lever Rifle Stock
Pros
- Durable 6061 aluminum construction with hard coat anodized finish.
- Adjustable polymer cheek piece for use with various optics or iron sights.
- Ambidextrous design caters to both left- and right-handed shooters.
- Multiple anti-rotation QD swivel sockets for versatile sling placement.
- Maintains factory length of pull, providing a familiar and comfortable fit.
Cons
- Factory length of pull may be too short for some users (spacer plates sold separately).
- Price point is higher than some other basic stock options.
Who Should Buy Midwest Industries Smith & Wesson 1854 Lever Rifle Stock?
The Midwest Industries Smith & Wesson 1854 Lever Rifle Stock is perfect for:
- Hunters who want a more durable and adaptable stock for their lever-action rifle.
- Tactical shooters looking to modernize their lever gun with M-LOK compatibility and adjustable ergonomics.
- Competitive shooters seeking a stable and customizable platform for improved accuracy.
This product might not be ideal for:
- Budget-conscious buyers seeking the cheapest possible stock option.
- Purists who prefer the traditional look and feel of a classic wood stock.
Must-have accessories or modifications:
- M-LOK compatible rail segments for attaching lights, lasers, or grips.
- Spacer plates for increasing the length of pull if needed.
Conclusion on Midwest Industries Smith & Wesson 1854 Lever Rifle Stock
The Midwest Industries Smith & Wesson 1854 Lever Rifle Stock is an excellent upgrade for any Smith & Wesson 1854 owner seeking enhanced ergonomics and tactical adaptability. The durable construction, adjustable cheek piece, and M-LOK compatibility make it a worthwhile investment.
While the price is higher than some basic stock options, the added functionality and durability justify the cost. The value proposition lies in the enhanced shooting experience and increased versatility that this stock provides.
I would personally recommend the Midwest Industries Smith & Wesson 1854 Lever Rifle Stock to anyone looking to modernize their Smith & Wesson 1854 lever-action rifle. It’s a game-changer that transforms a classic firearm into a modern, adaptable platform. Upgrade your lever gun today and experience the difference!