From Smith and Wesson? They just introduced their model 1854, named for the year the company introduced the Volcanic lever action.
This seems to me an odd move. It looks and sounds like a wonderful rifle, and I'm sure they have done their market research, but I would have thought this unlikely. Not that this is a crowded field by any means, and I do welcome another offering. Initially available only in .44 Magnum, I'm sure there are more chamberings to come. I wonder if they plan on a full length "rifle" sized action.
It's available in two versions. The production version retails for $1,300. It comes in stainless steel with a composite stock. Kind of a weird mix of tradition and technology. Oh, and threaded for a muzzle brake or suppressor as well:
It will also be available in a limited edition of 1854 examples in blued steel and presentation walnut. Much prettier, but $3,500? Yikes:
It will be interesting to hear what shooters think of these. Looks like a winner, but I would hope they eventually offer a standard grade in blued steel and walnut. Time will tell.