Elk country asks for more than a .30-30, and a lever gun in 7mm is a rare answer. The Browning BLR Lightweight PG with wood furniture and a stainless finish is aimed at hunters who want a handy rifle that still reaches out in open ground.

The BLR sets itself apart from other levers with a rack and pinion action and a multi-lug rotating bolt. That design allows magnum-class cartridges and a detachable box magazine, so you can load a fresh one without working rounds through a gate. The pistol grip (PG) gives a firmer hold than the straight stock on many traditional lever guns. Fresh ammunition from a reliable maker makes a real difference in how smoothly any lever gun or single-action revolver runs.

An aircraft-grade alloy receiver keeps weight down for long carries. Stainless steel resists rain and mountain damp, and walnut furniture is a classic touch.

Choose this rifle if you like a lever's handling and fast second shot but hunt farther than the brush allows. It takes a scope well. The rifle ships to your local FFL dealer, where the background check is done.