Barra 1866 Cowboy Rifle.177 BB Gun Kit for Kids - Starter Lever Action

Our review of the Barra 1866 Cowboy Rifle.177 Junior finds it best suited to younger shooters and beginners who want a safe, authentic-feeling lever-action air rifle. The single-pump pneumatic design and an automatic safety that engages after every shot make teaching basic range discipline straightforward, while the included safety glasses, 1,000 BBs and targets mean it arrives ready to use. It is not a high-power hunting rifle, but as an entry-level backyard plinker and youth trainer it delivers solid value and an approachable learning curve.

Key Features

• Auto-safety: The automatic safety engages after each shot to reduce accidental discharge and reinforce safe handling for new shooters.
• Single-pump pneumatic: One pump per shot with a long lever arm makes operation simple and avoids the need for CO2 cartridges or external power.
• Dual ammunition capable: Accepts both.177 caliber BBs and pellets so families can choose the projectile that fits their practice goals.
• Starter kit included: Comes with safety glasses, a 1,000 count bag of BBs and paper targets so you can set up a range session right away.
• Compact junior size: At 36 in total length with a 16.5 in barrel and a lighter 4.1 lb weight, the 1866 Junior is sized for youth hands and shoulders.
• Large BB capacity: A 50-shot BB capacity reduces the need for constant reloading during casual target practice.

Who It's For

This rifle is aimed at parents and guardians looking for a beginner-friendly lever-action air gun to introduce kids and youth to shooting skills and range safety. The included safety gear, clear instructions and an auto-engaging safety make it practical for supervised backyard practice and informal range sessions.

It is not intended for those seeking high muzzle energy or a durable field rifle for heavy use; some customers note mixed feedback on power and a few report durability concerns. Advanced shooters or those needing sustained high performance should consider a full-size adult air rifle instead.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Easy, single-pump operation with no CO2 required makes it low-cost to run and simple to teach.
• Good beginner ergonomics and a lighter, shorter build designed for youth comfort and control.
• Complete starter kit and safety features allow immediate, safer practice right out of the box.
• Accurate enough for target work and learning marksmanship fundamentals.

Cons

• Power is modest and customer feedback is mixed on velocity and stopping performance for heavier tasks.
• Some users report durability issues under heavier use, so it may not suit intensive or rough use.

Specifications

Action	Single pump pneumatic, lever action
Caliber	.177 BBs or pellets
Maximum velocity	Up to 350 FPS
Capacity	50 shot BB capacity
Overall length	36 in
Barrel length	16.5 in
Weight	4.1 lb

Our Verdict

The Barra 1866 Junior Cowboy Rifle is a well-considered entry-level lever-action air rifle that pairs a nostalgic design with practical safety features and a ready-to-use starter kit. It makes a strong choice for families teaching kids basic shooting skills and range etiquette, offering good accuracy and ease of operation for the price; shoppers needing power or long-term heavy use should compare adult models.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the gun require CO2 cartridges?
No. The 1866 Junior is a single-pump pneumatic and shoots with one pump per shot, so no CO2 cartridges are needed.

What ammunition does it use?
The rifle accepts.177 caliber BBs and pellets, giving flexibility for different practice types and preferences.

Is safety equipment included?
Yes. The kit includes safety glasses, 1,000 BBs and paper targets, plus an automatic safety that engages after each shot.