Browning 92 lever rifle in .357 magnum
by R. T. Anvyl
Having grown up on a ranch in South Texas I became aware early on in life of the importance of firearms, especially when working and roaming in the brushlands. Over the years I have had the opportunity to use dozens of types of rifles, shotguns, pistols of sundry calibers and gauges. After 50 plus years of ranching and living close to nature I have come to the firm conclusion that the one most practical and "all-around" rifle for daily use and for survival if the need should arise, is the .357 magnum lever gun. I own several .357 lever rifles including my favorite, a Browning 92 purchased nearly 30 years ago, and a Marlin 1894 (also a very good rifle) as well as a Rossi 92 which is not quite as well made but is still rugged and has good practical accuracy. The Browning 92 is, of course, John Browning's design and as with most of Browning's firearms, the design is ingenious in its overall practicality, ruggedness and ergonomics. I can carry bird shot cartridges for snakes (we have tons of rattlesnakes and though I seldom shoot them anymore, occasionally the need arises to take one) and I also carry wadcutters that can easily be single loaded into the chamber for rabbits and small game. I've taken quite a few big South Texas bucks over the years with 158 grain soft nose bullets and as of late many wild hogs (these have become somewhat of a problem in Texas) using 158 grain and 180 grain bullets. The bottom line folks is that you can believe the gun writers and their magnum mania or you can believe an old rancher/woodsman who has actually lived the life and shot the game on a daily basis. It's up to you. But I will continue to use my little Browning (and Marlin and Rossi) as long as I am able and never ever look back. I have "enough gun" and that's the bottom line. Good luck, happy hunting, and respect nature.
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