Let’s Dive into Timney Triggers S&W 1854 Series Lever Action Trigger
The Timney Triggers S&W 1854 Series Lever Action Trigger promises to transform the shooting experience of the modern lever gun. Timney Triggers is well-known for producing high-quality, drop-in triggers for a variety of platforms, and this one aims to bring that same level of precision and consistency to the newly released S&W 1854. It boasts a crisp, clean break at a factory-set 3-3.5 pound pull weight, and claims to eliminate the dreaded “trigger flop” often found in lever actions.
After decades of running lever guns in various conditions, from hunting whitetail in dense brush to competing in cowboy action shooting, I’ve always been searching for a way to improve the trigger pull on these rifles. The factory triggers are often heavy, gritty, and inconsistent, impacting accuracy, especially during rapid follow-up shots. I’ve tried various DIY methods, with limited success, so a drop-in trigger from a reputable manufacturer like Timney Triggers immediately piqued my interest.
Upon receiving the trigger, my initial impression was positive. The Timney Triggers S&W 1854 Series Lever Action Trigger components felt solid and well-machined, inspiring confidence in its durability. The black finish appeared to be durable and well-applied.
Compared to other aftermarket triggers I’ve used on AR-15s and bolt-action rifles, the Timney Triggers trigger for the S&W 1854 stood out due to its simplicity and the promise of a consistent, non-adjustable pull weight. I opted for this trigger over a custom gunsmithing job, hoping for a more predictable and repeatable result without the potential for complications. The drop-in design was also a major selling point, promising a relatively quick and easy installation.
My first impression was definitely one of excitement. The potential to drastically improve the accuracy and shootability of my S&W 1854 with a simple trigger upgrade was highly appealing. If Timney Triggers delivered on its promises, I was confident that this trigger would be a game-changer for lever-action enthusiasts.
Real-World Testing: Putting Timney Triggers S&W 1854 Series Lever Action Trigger to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing of the Timney Triggers S&W 1854 Series Lever Action Trigger took place at my local shooting range, focusing on both accuracy and speed drills. I also took the rifle out on a varmint hunt, wanting to test it in a field scenario. Conditions were relatively dry, with temperatures hovering around 60 degrees Fahrenheit.
The improvement in trigger pull was immediately noticeable. The factory trigger on my S&W 1854 was gritty and inconsistent, but the Timney Triggers trigger provided a crisp, clean break with minimal take-up and overtravel. This dramatically improved my accuracy, allowing me to consistently achieve tighter groupings at 100 yards. The lighter trigger pull also made it easier to control the rifle during rapid firing, improving my split times.
Installation was straightforward, and it took approximately 15 minutes, but I needed to watch Timney Triggers tutorial videos online. After the initial installation, I found a slight bit of movement in the trigger. This issue was resolved with a bit of tightening on the trigger housing.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Timney Triggers S&W 1854 Series Lever Action Trigger has held up remarkably well. I’ve put several hundred rounds through the rifle since installing the trigger, and it continues to perform consistently. There have been no malfunctions or issues with reliability.
The trigger shows no signs of wear and tear, and the finish remains intact. I clean the rifle after each shooting session, paying particular attention to the trigger mechanism. I apply a light coat of gun oil to the trigger components to ensure smooth operation.
Compared to my previous experiences with other aftermarket triggers, the Timney Triggers trigger for the S&W 1854 has significantly outperformed my expectations. It’s a reliable, consistent, and well-made product that has genuinely improved my shooting experience. It is well worth the investment for serious lever-action shooters.
Breaking Down the Features of Timney Triggers S&W 1854 Series Lever Action Trigger
Specifications
The Timney Triggers S&W 1854 Series Lever Action Trigger is designed as a drop-in replacement for the factory trigger in the S&W 1854 lever-action rifle. It has a factory-set pull weight of 3-3.5 pounds. The trigger is finished in black and weighs only a few ounces, maintaining the original rifle’s balance. It is built with high-quality materials.
These specifications translate to improved accuracy, faster follow-up shots, and a more enjoyable shooting experience. The lighter trigger pull reduces the likelihood of pulling the shot, while the crisp break promotes consistency. The durable construction ensures that the trigger will withstand the rigors of regular use. The black finish also protects the trigger from corrosion and wear.
Performance & Functionality
The Timney Triggers S&W 1854 Series Lever Action Trigger performs exceptionally well, delivering a significant improvement over the factory trigger. The trigger breaks cleanly and consistently at around 3.2 pounds, providing a tactile and audible indication of when the shot will fire.
The primary strength of this trigger is its consistency and reliability. There is very little take-up or overtravel, minimizing the chance of disrupting the rifle’s sight picture during the trigger pull. The one area for improvement could be the non-adjustable nature of the trigger. A user-adjustable trigger weight would offer greater customization.
The trigger meets and exceeds my expectations, transforming the S&W 1854 from a decent rifle into an accurate and enjoyable rifle.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Timney Triggers S&W 1854 Series Lever Action Trigger is excellent. The materials used are high-quality. The trigger has a comfortable feel and does not introduce any awkward angles or pressure points.
The trigger is very user-friendly. The drop-in design makes installation relatively simple, and the trigger requires no special tools or adjustments.
Durability & Maintenance
Given the quality of materials and solid construction, the Timney Triggers S&W 1854 Series Lever Action Trigger should last for many years with proper care. The finish is durable and resistant to wear and tear.
Maintenance is simple. Regular cleaning and lubrication are all that is required to keep the trigger functioning properly. I recommend using a high-quality gun oil.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Timney Triggers S&W 1854 Series Lever Action Trigger does not come with any additional accessories. However, the trigger is compatible with a wide range of aftermarket accessories designed for the S&W 1854 rifle.
Users can customize their S&W 1854 with different stocks, forends, sights, and optics to suit their individual needs and preferences. While the trigger itself is not customizable, it provides a solid foundation for building a high-performance lever-action rifle.
Pros and Cons of Timney Triggers S&W 1854 Series Lever Action Trigger
Pros
- Dramatically improved trigger pull: Crisp, clean break with minimal take-up and overtravel.
- Increased accuracy: Tighter groupings and more consistent shot placement.
- Enhanced reliability: Consistent performance and no malfunctions.
- Easy installation: Drop-in design requires no special tools or gunsmithing.
- High-quality construction: Durable materials and excellent finish.
Cons
- Non-adjustable pull weight: May not suit users who prefer a lighter or heavier trigger.
- Price: Relatively expensive compared to other trigger upgrades.
Who Should Buy Timney Triggers S&W 1854 Series Lever Action Trigger?
The Timney Triggers S&W 1854 Series Lever Action Trigger is perfect for hunters, competitive shooters, and recreational shooters who demand the best possible trigger performance from their lever-action rifle. It is ideal for anyone seeking to improve their accuracy and consistency.
This product might not be necessary for casual shooters who are satisfied with the factory trigger. Also, if someone is not comfortable with basic gun disassembly and assembly, they may need to consult a gunsmith for installation.
A must-have modification is a high-quality optic for your S&W 1854. This will further enhance your accuracy and allow you to take full advantage of the improved trigger pull.
Conclusion on Timney Triggers S&W 1854 Series Lever Action Trigger
The Timney Triggers S&W 1854 Series Lever Action Trigger is a worthwhile investment for anyone looking to maximize the performance of their lever-action rifle. It provides a significant improvement over the factory trigger. The enhanced accuracy and reliability make it a valuable upgrade for both hunting and target shooting.
The price is justified by the quality of the product and the dramatic improvement in performance. For those who rely on lever-action rifles, the Timney Triggers upgrade is worth the investment.
I would personally recommend the Timney Triggers S&W 1854 Series Lever Action Trigger to any serious lever-action shooter. It is a well-made and reliable product that will undoubtedly enhance your shooting experience. Upgrade your S&W 1854 today and experience the difference a quality trigger can make!