Description
There is something about running a lever gun in .45-70 Government that no bolt gun can match, and the Rossi R95 delivers that experience without the premium price tag that usually comes with a big-bore lever action. This 20-inch barrel model pairs an alloy steel receiver and barrel in a deep black oxide finish with a genuine walnut stock and forend, giving it the traditional look that made rifles like this a fixture in deer camps for generations. The tubular magazine holds six rounds, which puts it a step ahead of most competing .45-70 lever guns, and a seventh in the chamber rounds out the payload.
Why the R95 Earns Its Spot in the Truck or Tree Stand
The .45-70 has been dropping game since 1873, and it remains a favorite for whitetail, hogs, black bear, and elk inside 200 yards. At 39 inches overall and around 6.8 pounds, the R95 carries easily through thick timber and swings fast from a blind or stand. A buckhorn rear sight and drift adjustable front sight keep things simple in the field, and the receiver comes drilled and tapped so mounting a scope or red dot is a quick job. A cross-bolt safety and rubber recoil pad round out the practical touches, and that pad earns its keep when you are feeding this rifle stout hunting loads.
Rossi R95 Fit, Feel, and Function
Owners and reviewers consistently point to the smooth action as a standout. The lever cycles cleanly, ejection is strong and positive, and the wood-to-metal fit is better than you might expect at this price point. Sling swivel studs come installed, so adding a sling for a long hike in is no trouble. The 1:12 right-hand twist stabilizes common 300 to 405 grain factory loads well, and range reports show this rifle printing tight groups with open sights at 100 yards.
For hunters in straight-wall cartridge country or anyone who has been itching for a hard-hitting lever gun with classic lines, the R95 in .45-70 is a tough combination of value and capability to pass up.
Key Specifications
- Model: R95
- Manufacturer Part Number: 954570201
- UPC: 754908335008
- Caliber: .45-70 Government
- Action: Lever Action
- Capacity: 6+1
- Barrel Length: 20 inches
- Twist Rate: 1:12 RH, 6 grooves
- Overall Length: 39 inches
- Weight: Approx. 6.8 lbs (unloaded)
- Stock: Walnut with rubber recoil pad
- Receiver/Barrel Material: Alloy Steel
- Finish: Black Oxide
- Sights: Buckhorn rear, drift adjustable front
- Optics Ready: Receiver drilled and tapped
- Safety: Cross-bolt safety
What’s Included
- Rossi R95 lever action rifle
- Owner's manual
- Factory box
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I mount a scope on the Rossi R95 in .45-70?
Yes. The R95 receiver comes drilled and tapped from the factory, so adding a scope base or rail is straightforward. Plenty of owners run a low-power scope or red dot on this rifle, which pairs nicely with the practical range of the .45-70 cartridge.
How many rounds does the 20-inch Rossi R95 hold?
The tubular magazine on the 20-inch .45-70 model holds six rounds, plus one in the chamber for a 6+1 total. That gives it an edge over most competing .45-70 lever guns, which typically hold four or five in the tube.
Is the Rossi R95 a good deer hunting rifle?
It is a great fit for deer, hogs, and black bear, especially inside 200 yards where the .45-70 shines. It is also a popular pick in areas where hunters favor straight-wall cartridges. The compact 39-inch overall length and 6.8 pound weight make it easy to handle in a blind, tree stand, or thick cover.
How bad is the recoil on a .45-70 lever gun like the R95?
The .45-70 is a stout cartridge, but the R95 comes with a rubber recoil pad that takes a good bite out of the kick. With standard pressure factory loads, most folks find it very manageable. Note that heavy oversized loads like Buffalo Bore magnum-level ammo are not recommended for this rifle, so stick with standard SAAMI spec ammunition.





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