The lever action rimfire market has long been dominated by classic tube-fed designs. However, the Federation Firearms 1867 is part of a new wave of 22LR Turkish lever action rifles that trade the traditional tube for a modern (cheap) detachable box magazine. If this rifle looks familiar, that’s because it shares its DNA with the Derya TM22 series, offering a more tactical, utilitarian take on the lever gun.
Overview
The Federation 1867 is a lightweight, fast-handling rimfire designed for plinking and small game hunting. Unlike your grandpa’s walnut-stocked 22, the 1867 features an aluminum receiver and often comes in a black synthetic furniture configuration that prioritizes durability over nostalgia. The standout feature is undoubtedly the magazine-fed system, which brings modern convenience to a classic action.
Specifications
- Caliber: 22LR
- Action: Lever Action
- Barrel: 18 inches, threaded (1/2×28)
- Capacity: 10 round detachable box magazine
- Weight: 5.1 lbs
- Receiver: Aluminum
- Safety: Cross-bolt
- Price: $400-500 CAD
Usability
At just over 5 pounds, the 1867 is incredibly easy to carry in the woods all day. The lever throw is relatively short and smooth, though like many Turkish rimfires, it may benefit from a “break-in” period of a few hundred rounds.
There are 3 safeties built into this gun: a cross bolt safety, a lever safety, and a rebounding hammer. I could do without the cross bolt safeties but I understand how much Americans love suing each other so I guess another safety isn’t the end of the world.
The straight grip is. . .annoying if you’re used to a pistol grip, especially since you have to depress the lever to fire the gun. It just turns my wrist in a way I don’t like.
The inclusion of a last round bolt hold open is a massive win for usability. Most lever actions require you to “click” on an empty chamber to know you’re out; here, the lever will resist closing, telling you immediately that it’s time for a fresh mag. Though, I don’t like how difficult it makes mag removal.
The sights are a bit of a mixed bag. The rear sight is quite small, which might be a struggle for those with aging eyes. However, the threaded muzzle (1/2×28) is a great touch, allowing for easy installation of a suppressor where legal (not in Canada).
Aftermarket and Potential Modifications
Since this rifle is essentially the same as the Derya TM22-LA, it should be compatible with Derya magazines but don’t quote me.
- Optics: you’re stuck with either a red dot or a long eye relief scope
- Furniture: While the synthetic version is the most common, there are laminate and walnut options available for those who want a more “premium” feel.
- Magazines: You can find 15 and 25 round magazines from Derya that should fit this platform, significantly increasing your plinking time.
Competitors
The primary competitor is the Derya TM22-LA, which is virtually the same gun but often comes with different furniture options (like the green or grey laminate). On the traditional side, you have the Henry Classic Lever Action and the Savage Revel. While the Henry is smoother and more “classic,” it lacks the threaded barrel and the fast reloading capability of the Federation’s box magazine.
Conclusion
The Federation Firearms 1867 is a practical, no-nonsense rimfire. It isn’t trying to be a museum piece; it’s a fun lever action 22. For the hunter who wants a lightweight 22 that is easy to unload when crossing a fence and easy to suppress for quiet backyard sessions, this is a very strong contender.
Pros:
- Threaded barrel as standard.
- Reliable 10-round box magazines.
- Bolt hold open on empty.
- Extremely lightweight.
Cons:
- Does not have the classic feel of a Henry or Savage’s new Revel
- Rear sight is a bit small for precise work.
