Nine millimeter in a lever gun is a modern twist on an old pattern. Taylor's & Company chambers its TC73 1873 rifle for 9mm and finishes it in blue, which means one box of pistol ammunition can feed both a rifle and a pistol.

The 9mm Luger is one of the cheapest and most available centerfire cartridges, and that makes this rifle an economical way to shoot a lever action. Recoil is very light. Cowboy action fans will like the speed of the short cartridge, and new shooters will like the gentle push.

The 1873 pattern gives you the old Winchester look, a slim receiver, a smooth lever, and a classic profile. The short cartridge also means the rifle cycles quickly and stays easy to clean. It is not a long-range gun, but it works well on steel and paper at the distances where pistol cartridges shine.

Use quality factory ammunition, keep the action clean and lightly oiled, and wipe the blued steel after use. The rifle ships to your FFL dealer, and the background check is completed there before you take it home.