Semi-Auto or Lever Action?

[Milkmaster]

Nowadays I shoot a bit more than in my past. I like to keep my guns clean and consider it a part of the hobby and not really a chore, but it does take time. I've always liked having a .22 rifle around for cheap shooting and for the newbies or kids to shoot.

I noticed somthing this past weekend that made me consider selling my 10-22 for a lever action .22 ( I am fond of the Henry with the brass body). I was cleaning up after shooting a Winchester model 94 in 30-30 cal when I noticed the lever action just wasn't dirty at all. Makes total sense now since it is not a semi-auto that gets dirty from the reoil gases etc. I don't do a disassembly cleaning of the 10-22 but once a year, but it is a pain. SO... I was thinking of making my .22 a lever action for ease of cleaning etc or as an excuse to the wife anyways

How about you folks out there? Does the lever action stay cleaner and therfore make you sometimes choose it over a semi-auto (in any caliber if that matters)?

 

[DMK]

Lever actions, bolt actions and pump actions will definitely be cleaner in the receiver.

When the semi-auto cycles, a lot of residue and powder will blow back into the action. The report is often louder with a semi-auto.

I still prefer the semi-auto. I won't choose a manual action specifically because semi-autos get dirty unless I know I'll really be pressed for time to clean it when I get home.

 

[Rangr44]

Please consider that you're comparing apples to oranges, when comparing fouling from a centerfire rifle to a .22 rimfire - which is much dirtier, as you've found out.

It doesn't have much to do with the action type.

A lever .22 will get just as much powder residue in the innards as any other rimfire, shot-for-shot.

If you're going for ease, then get a gun that's EZ to clean; but if you're buying for pleasure, then get whatever - you said the Henry floats your boat, so, why not?

 

[DMK]

A lever .22 will get just as much powder residue in the innards as any other rimfire, shot-for-shot.

Respectfully, I disagree. My Marlin 39A stays pretty clean inside after shooting. I just wipe the bore with some CLP on a boresnake. My Marlin 60 needs a thorough tear down and full cleaning after being shot. The the inside of the receiver and bolt get filthy. Same thing with my Ciener.