GForce Arms GFLVR357PN Saddlehorn Mares Leg .357 Magnum 12-inch 5+1

About this product

The GForce Arms GFLVR357PN Saddlehorn Mares Leg is a lever-action pistol featuring a 12-inch barrel chambered in .357 Magnum with a 5+1 capacity, designed to navigate the specific legal and mechanical niche between a traditional rifle and a handgun. This configuration meets the Federal definition of a handgun for transport and sale, while offering ballistic performance superior to most revolvers from a stable, supported platform. Its historical "Mares' Leg" form factor, popularized by mid-20th century Westerns, receives modern updates like a threaded muzzle and alloy components for practical contemporary use.

What is the GForce Arms GFLVR357PN Saddlehorn Mares Leg used for?

The Saddlehorn Mares Leg is used as a compact trail or ranch firearm for dispatching varmints and providing a defensive option in dense brush where a full-length rifle is cumbersome. Its 12-inch barrel yields a muzzle velocity approximately 250-300 feet per second higher than a 4-inch revolver, making it effective for small game up to 100 yards when fired from a supported position. The threaded 1/2-28 muzzle allows for attachment of a linear compensator or, in compliant jurisdictions, a suppressor, making it a versatile tool for property management.

How does the GForce Arms Mares Leg compare to a Henry Big Boy Carbine?

The GForce Saddlehorn is better for direct-point shooting and one-handed manipulation in close quarters, while the Henry Big Boy Carbine with a 16.5-inch barrel is superior for aimed fire at distance using its shoulder stock. The Henry has a 10-round capacity and an all-steel receiver, making it a heavier, more stable rifle platform, but it requires a federal Form 4470 for transfer. The Saddlehorn, classified as a pistol, can be purchased over-the-counter in most states, accepting the trade-off of reduced capacity and a 4.5-inch shorter sight radius for regulatory simplicity.

What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?

The GForce Saddlehorn weighs 5 pounds 8 ounces (88 ounces) unloaded and measures 23.5 inches in overall length. Its 12-inch barrel provides a significant ballistic advantage over typical revolvers while keeping the package compact enough for saddlebag or ATV storage. The balance point is just forward of the lever, making the 5.8-pound mass feel manageable for off-hand shooting despite the absence of a shoulder stock.

Who is this NOT for?

This firearm is not for a shooter seeking a traditional, high-capacity lever-action rifle for precision hunting or competitive shooting. The 5+1 capacity is half that of most full-size lever guns, and the pistol configuration requires substantial practice to master off-hand shooting at any meaningful range. If your primary use case involves sustained aimed fire beyond 50 yards, a rifle like our Stevens 334 in .243 Win is a more effective and ergonomic choice.

What's in the box?

The box contains the complete GForce Saddlehorn Mares Leg pistol, one 1/2-28 thread protector, and a cardboard sleeve storing the factory test-fired casing, required documentation, and a manual. GForce does not include a hard case, sling, or any loading accessories, so plan to purchase a suitable pistol case and .357/.38 speed loaders separately. The manual specifically notes the firearm's classification as a pistol and its compatibility with .38 Special ammunition for reduced-recoil practice.

Is the GForce Saddlehorn Mares Leg worth it at $570.99?

At $570.99, the Saddlehorn is worth it for a shooter who specifically wants the unique Mares' Leg form factor with modern features, accepting its inherent limitations as a specialist tool. The nickel finish over 4140 steel and Turkish walnut furniture represents a tangible step up in materials from budget-tier firearms in this price range. For a more conventional and versatile lever-action at a similar price point, you would need to move to a used market or a plainer finish, making this a fair value proposition for its intended niche.