The Taylors and Company 1886 BB EVOL .45-70 19″ rifle is a modern evolution of the classic Browning lever action, built for shooters who demand repeatable accuracy with heavy cast or jacketed bullets. Chambered in .45-70 Government, this rifle pairs a grey Cerakote steel receiver with a silicone-coated walnut stock for corrosion resistance and a traditional profile that won’t slip under recoil. With a 19″ barrel, adjustable peep rear and fiber-optic front sights, plus a drilled-and-tapped receiver for optics, it’s ready for iron-sight plinking or glassed-in precision out to 300 yards.
| Manufacturer | Taylors and Company |
|---|---|
| Model | 1886 BB EVOL |
| Material | Steel receiver with grey Cerakote finish; walnut stock with silicone coating |
| Compatibility | .45-70 Government ammunition; accepts standard Weaver scout-style optics |
| Finish | Grey Cerakote (receiver), silicone-coated walnut (stock), blued barrel |
| Weight | 8.2 lbs (per manufacturer specs) |
| Condition | New |
Key Features
- Grey Cerakote Steel Receiver — Why it matters: Cerakote offers superior corrosion and abrasion resistance over bluing, so this rifle holds up in wet or dusty environments without rusting under the lever.
- Silicone-Coated Walnut Stock — Why it matters: The silicone coating reduces moisture absorption and provides a non-slip grip under recoil, critical for fast follow-up shots on game or steel.
- Adjustable Peep Rear & Fiber-Optic Front Sights — Why it matters: The peep rear gives a precise sight picture for target work, while the fiber-optic front glows in low light—no batteries needed. Elevation adjustments are repeatable to 0.5 MOA per click.
- Forward Weaver Scout Rail — Why it matters: Mount a scout scope or red dot forward of the action for an extended eye relief setup, keeping the receiver clear for quick reloads.
- Adjustable Lever — Why it matters: The lever’s adjustable pull length accommodates gloved hands or short fingers, ensuring a positive grip without pinching.
Who It’s For
This rifle is built for the long-range hunter who wants a .45-70 that can hit a 12-inch plate at 200 yards with irons, and the lever-action enthusiast who appreciates a modernized classic. It’s ideal for shooters who reload .45-70 and need a platform that handles heavy 405-grain loads without cracking stocks. If you’re a scout-rifle convert or a cowboy-action shooter stepping into precision, this is your bridge.
Pros/Cons
- Pros: Cerakote finish resists rust; adjustable lever fits varied hand sizes; drilled-and-tapped receiver for optics; 19″ barrel balances well for carry.
- Cons: The 5+1 capacity is limiting for high-volume shooting; the silicone-coated stock can feel slightly slick when wet without gloves.
Comparison: Taylors 1886 BB EVOL vs. Henry Big Boy X vs. Marlin 1895 SBL
| Feature | Taylors 1886 BB EVOL | Henry Big Boy X | Marlin 1895 SBL |
|---|---|---|---|
| Caliber | .45-70 Government | .45-70 Government | .45-70 Government |
| Barrel Length | 19″ | 19.75″ | 19.125″ |
| Receiver Finish | Grey Cerakote | Black Cerakote | Stainless steel |
| Stock | Silicone-coated walnut | Black laminate | Black walnut with checkering |
| Sights | Peep rear, fiber-optic front | Peep rear, fiber-optic front | Skinner peep, brass bead front |
| Weight | 8.2 lbs | 8.5 lbs | 8.3 lbs |
| Price | $2,942.54 | ~$1,200 | ~$1,800 |
The Taylors 1886 BB EVOL sits at a premium price point versus the Henry Big Boy X and Marlin 1895 SBL, but it offers a grey Cerakote finish that’s rarer in the market and a silicone-coated walnut stock that resists moisture better than standard walnut. The 19″ barrel is an inch shorter than the Marlin’s, making it more maneuverable in brush. The Henry lacks a scout rail out of the box—the Taylors includes one. For the shooter who wants a modernized 1886 action with corrosion-proofing, the Taylors justifies its cost.
FAQ
What is the magazine capacity of the Taylors and Company 1886 BB EVOL .45-70 19″ rifle?
The rifle has a 5+1 capacity—five rounds in the tubular magazine plus one in the chamber. This is standard for lever-action .45-70 rifles, as the cartridge’s length limits tube capacity.
Can I mount a scope on this rifle?
Yes. The receiver is drilled and tapped for standard Weaver-style bases, and there’s a forward Weaver scout rail included for mounting a scout scope or red dot. The factory sights are usable with a scope if you use low rings.
Is the stock adjustable for length of pull?
No, the stock has a fixed length of pull at 13.5 inches. However, the lever is adjustable for reach, which can help shooters with smaller hands or those wearing gloves.
What ammunition can I use in this rifle?
It’s chambered for .45-70 Government and can handle all SAAMI-spec loads, including 300-grain to 405-grain bullets. Avoid using .45-70 +P loads unless the manufacturer specifically approves them—check the manual.
Does the rifle come with a case or sling?
No. The Taylors 1886 BB EVOL ships without a case or sling. You’ll need to purchase those separately. The rifle has sling swivel studs pre-installed.
Trust & Delivery
- ✔ Nationwide delivery (all 50 states)
- ✔ Ships 1-2 business days
- ✔ 30-day returns
- ✔ Secure checkout
Last updated: April 2026
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