45-70

[ACrowe25]

Hi guys,

I've casted and loaded many thousands of rounds of pistol ammunition (45 ACP, 44 Rem Mag, 38 SPL, 357 Mag, 9mm, 380) and am now looking to expand my loading.

45-70 attracts me very much. Seems like a great lead boolit shooter. Only problem is, not sure which one to go with? Or to go with a lever at all?

Thoughts, recommendations? Can't afford much over $800 to be honest.

If you had that budget, and a want for a 45-70. Which would you pick? I'm not against single shots either.

Thanks, AC>

[NSB]

I'd suggest a good used Marlin guide gun...lever. I've never owned one but they are quite popular and the owners are, for the most part, very satisfied with them. I have owned other Marlin lever guns such as the 357, 22mag, and 22lr and I've had nothing but good results with them. I own, and have owned several 45-70s (it's my favorite caliber) but the ones I currently own would cost over the amount you're looking to spend. I don't think you're giving anything up getting the Marlin. Not accuracy and not quality (other than some of the early Remington made ones. The new Rem's seem pretty good).

[ACrowe25]

Was really looking at the Marlin Model 1895 Guide Gun

[ACrowe25]

They're only offered used? Can't buy new anymore?

[725]

Marlin is outstanding - Very strong. I have an H&R and am very pleased with it. Well inside your budget. Mostly depend on what you want to do with it.

[Hickok]

I have a older Marlin 1895 in 45/70 with a 22 inch barrel, ballard rifling and I love it!

[hickstick_10]

At your budget I'd get a handi rifle, and then you can send the gun in for new barrels in different calibers when you feel like it. Or a buffalo classic. I've yet to come across a crack barrel I didnt like, super simple and very reliable.

Honestly, while I really like marlins 1894, what you pay for a new 1895 vs what you get when you save a few hundred bucks more for a miroku 1886, theres no comparison in quality. When I was shopping I had them lay an extralight 1886 next to a 1895 and it was pretty disgusting sight to see what 350 bucks difference made in the quality of gun you get.

[seaboltm]

I bought a brand new Remlin 1895 a few months ago for $429 on gunbroker. Although that was an exceptional close out, here is one:

http://www.gunbroker.com/Auction/ViewItem.aspx?Item=396613489

I have JM marked Marlins, and this newer one. Contrary to the name calling the new Remlins get, there is nothing wrong with my 1895 and it shoots just fine.

[Clay M]

I have a older Marlin 1895 in 45/70 with a 22 inch barrel, ballard rifling and I love it!


Same here, I got mine in '72 I have killed most of my big deer with that rifle.Got a Ruger #1 in .45/70 last year. I really like it as well.I have eight .45/70's in all.

[ACrowe25]

So what's the consensus on scopes? My eye sight is terrible. Would one be better set up for a scope then the others?

[ACrowe25]

Hickstick, so everytime I want to change calibers I need to re send it in? Or how does that work...

[Clay M]

So what's the consensus on scopes? My eye sight is terrible. Would one be better set up for a scope then the others?

I use a Leupold VX-3 1.5X5 on my older Marlin . That scope has been very satisfactory over the years.

[knifemaker]

I have a Marlin 1895 LTD-V that will group 3 shots into 1 inch at 100 yards with several hunting loads at over 1800 fps. One of those loads is with the Ranch Dog 350 gr. cast lead backed by 43 gr. of IMR-4891 and sized to .460. Another load is with the Hornady 350 gr. RNFP jacketed bullet with 43 or 44 gr. of IMR-4198.
As for scoping the 1895, no problem it is drilled and tapped for scope mounts. One advantage the Marlin has over the Winchester with side ejection. I have used this rifle to take 3 bison and one hog and all 4 were one shot kills. I know several guys who have the guide gun and every one of them have been able to find a hunting load that will group 2 inches or less at 100 yards. Most near the 1-1/2 inch mark.

[2AMMD]

Never see much here about them, but the CVA APEX is a break barrel single shot with multiple barrels available (although the site shows most of them out of stock now), and all of the barrels are priced at 219.00 +ship and etc with several popular calibers available - 45-70, 223, 300 acc bo, 12 ga, and more., but you do not have to send the action in to be fitted like the H&R. The barrels can be sent to your home. One rifle complete is MSRP 576.00, add shipping tax etc. Also have muzzle loader barrels available. Might be worth looking into if a single shot will do. It is also a very nice looking gun.
2AMMD

[hickstick_10]

Hickstick, so everytime I want to change calibers I need to re send it in? Or how does that work...

http://www.hr1871.com/support/accessoryprogram.asp

They can explain better then I can. The prices are quite reasonable.

[Wasalmonslayer]

I have a late model 1895 remlin guide gun and love it. I have had zero issues and it shoots great. It has the Ballard rifling.
It does like lighter bullets in the 330-360 range. I tried some 405 and it shot minute of barn door.

[Duckiller]

Got a used/practially new 1895 Cowboy, 26" barrel in 2010. Asking price was $600.00. For a variety of reasons I haven't shot it as much as I would like. Only problem has been DON'T load long boolits through the magazine. It also NEEDS a recoil pad for heavier loads. With minimum charges of Trail Boss under Lee 335gr and 405 gr boolits it is painless and fun to shoot.

[Boogieman]

you might look for used Ruger#1 . I've seen some at gun shows around $600. Mine shoots 300-350gr.boolits very well. Loaded to about 1800fps. I have some 420 & 450gr. for my Sharps Repo. but haven't tried them in the Ruger yet.

[Hickok]

[QUOTE=knifemaker;2669051]I have a Marlin 1895 LTD-V that will group 3 shots into 1 inch at 100 yards with several hunting loads at over 1800 fps. One of those loads is with the Ranch Dog 350 gr. cast lead backed by 43 gr. of IMR-4891 and sized to .460. Another load is with the Hornady 350 gr. RNFP jacketed bullet with 43 or 44 gr. of IMR-4198.
As for scoping the 1895, no problem it is drilled and tapped for scope mounts. One advantage the Marlin has over the Winchester with side ejection. I have used this rifle to take 3 bison and one hog and all 4 were one shot kills. I know several guys who have the guide gun and every one of them have been able to find a hunting load that will group 2 inches or less at 100 yards. Most near the 1-1/2 inch mark.[/QUOTEKnifemaker,


I know what you say is true. I seldom bring up how well these Marlin's 95's group, because no one believes it.

As for scopes, I prefer the straight tubes scopes from Leupold or Burris mounted low. I have a Burris 4x on mine.

You know, the 45/70 also has the "cool factor." When someone shows you their favorite cartridge, you can pull a Crocedile Dundee on them by showing them a 45/70 round, "That's not a cartridge, this is a cartridge!"[smilie=1:

[Ragnarok]

I shopped around...and picked-up a Browning 1886 SRC from the 1990's production. Wasn't cheap..however it certainly shoots great and works well.

I guess these won't shoot just every shape of bullet..with some jamming into the rifling from short/abrupt throats. However I've not had any issues with the bullets I've tried.

[clyde-the-pointer]

I too have a Marlin 1895 with the 22" barrel. I don't like ported barrels related to the noise level. Just now beginning to load for this cannon.

[hicard]

Another happy 1895 guide gun owner. I am going with the 330gr gould boolit loaded at approx. 1400 fps. For fun, I loaded a 405 gr boolit with 28 grs of IMR 4198 and was very impressed with the one hole group I got with it. Very light recoil and a lot of fun to shoot. I have the stainless steel model and love it.

[ACrowe25]

Seems a Marlin GG is a go to. I've been looking at it for quite some time already...

One thing I'm curious is what are the go to powders? I always have a lot of 231 and 2400 on hand. How is 2400 for both hunting and target. No need to over charge a 45-70 for hunting MI deer here. I'm assuming 2400 should be sufficent?

[osteodoc08]

If you dont plan on putting optics on it, look for a Miroku (Browning) 1886. Best money youll spend on an 1886.

If wanting a marlin, 1895G or GS or other similar guide model.

Now if you just want to shoot cast rifle rounds in a lever action, may I suggest the venerable 30-30. You can find Winny 94s and Marlin 336 all day long for cheap and have enough money left over for molds (plural), primer, powder and brass. Just a thought.

[MostlyLeverGuns]

I've been using an 1895 Marlin .45-70 (22" barrel) since 1980, at least 15 elk, a moose, a few deer. It is my most favored rifle. I had a Leupold 2.5 Compact on it for many years. Recently went to a Leupold 2-7 VX2. Usually carry on 3.5x, helps finding holes in the timber or brush. I have shot most game with a 300 grain Barnes Original at 2200 fps. Very few bullets recovered, most were full penetration. I expect more than 4 feet penetration, even through bone. Recoil can be unpleasant, put a good modern recoil pad on it. A high quality scope is needed, recoil will damage most scopes over time, even Leupold and Burris. I would certainly get a new Marlin if I wanted another .45-70. The new Marlin Guide Gun on the rack felt and looked good. A good Marlin .45-70 is not a mistake.

[bigted]

Seems a Marlin GG is a go to. I've been looking at it for quite some time already...

One thing I'm curious is what are the go to powders? I always have a lot of 231 and 2400 on hand. How is 2400 for both hunting and target. No need to over charge a 45-70 for hunting MI deer here. I'm assuming 2400 should be sufficent?

my personal favorite lever 45-70 in all respects is a Marlin original in the stainless SBL model. it is a JM marlin and pistolgrip with the larger loop for wearing gloves when hunting. I installed an additional slip on pad for the length of pull and it fits me perfect. it is the best rifle to handle the hotter 45-70 loads being lesser in the recoil dept. but in addition it has the full length cartridge mag tube under the barrel. it can be scope mounted or peep sighted. mine currently wears a full buckhorn rear and the stock brass bead up front. this rifle is easy to clean and when I shoot blackpowder thru it I take it down with ease for a bolt removal with the added advantage of cleaning from the breech. [try this with a Winchester model 86] I like and have owned 86's before and ill say that for my preference I prefer the Marlin 95 for the utility and options it affords ... nothing wrong with the 1886 ... however just my preference ... don't wanna get the Winchester crowd stirred up ... not too much anyway ...LOL

these are found on the auction sites on a regular basis ... mine is def NOT for sale either ... but keep looking for your rifle at the price you want to spend ... you will find it.

[TXGunNut]

Was really looking at the Marlin Model 1895 Guide Gun

Quit looking, grab the first nice one and get started on the paperwork. ;-) Other than the above-referenced transition guns you're very likely to get a gun that is quick, handy, hard-hitting and keeps up with most bolt guns in the accuracy department.

[hickfu]

I Love my Marlin 1895SBL Co-Pilot... It will shoot a 12 shot group that you can cover with a half dollar at 50 yards (I only have a short range where I live) with both H322 or IMR-3031

Doc

[45coltnut]

I just picked up a new 1894 Marlin in 45-70 for my dad. I bought the Lee 405 grain hollow base mold for it and used H322 powder. This combination is fantastic! I'm completely blown away by the accuracy. Here's a three shot group from the other day. Now, to find me one !

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/03/23/uqazuquz.jpg

[444Hal]

The way I see it: For carrying around big bear protection go for the "Guide Gun". General hunting, then it's the regular 22" Marlin 1895.
If'n your into nostalgia, then look for the Marlin 1895 "Cowboy" with the 26" octagon barrel.
All three will handle the heavy (factory) loads and can be loaded from black powder level on up to the "450Marlin" power.
If'n you can take it pardner.

As far as powders go IMR3031 & Varget are favorites. But working with my 1895CB, I've found that 35grs of IMR4198 is working great with 405GC's for a slightly above black powder speed. I'm presently working with 325GC's and R-7 powder is looking really good.

[pls1911]

You won't be disappointed with a any Marlin 1895, and a guide gun is a fine choice.
While ballard rifling is preferred, don't pass a good deal on one with Micro groove... in my experience, they're all good shooters.
Load an RCBS 300 grain gas checked bullet over 26 grains of 2400 with a pinch of dacron and you have a pleasant shooting deer combination. Works fine on pigs too.
I have ported and non ported versions and certainly prefer the non ported. The recoil difference with moderate loads is not distinguishable and the noise level difference is substantial.

[surfanarchist]

The Jap Brownings are GREAT, but they're more expensive these days than the $800 the OP wanted to spend. Are they more accurate - I don't know. But if you plan to scope your 45/70 get a Marlin. The sights on the Brownings are not easy on older eyes.

[Jacko.357]

I know how proud Americans are of the American made Guns, but the Shooter on a Budget who wants a 45/70 Lever it is hard to go past the Rossi Rio Grande. I don't know what the retail is over there in the US but I'd bet you could buy a Rossi Rio Grande 45.70 and a Leupold Scope for under $800

Head over to the Rossi Rifleman Forum http://www.rossi-rifleman.com/viewforum.php?f=11&sid=62452653f8375216b0d832768bfd2012 for details of the little issue's these Rifles CAN have. Yeah I know they should work perfect out of the Box but sadly old world quality is out the door now days, look at the issues that Remington / Marlin have had in recent times, Rossi in my experience is streets ahead of that.

My Rio Grande whilst not perfect has proven a great Rifle for the Money. If you are inclined to tinker with a bit of time, a good Clean of the Factory Grease, a fine Oil Stone removing Factory Burrs and you are good to go. These Rifles have the best out of the Box Trigger of any Lever Rifle I have handled. Being based on the Marlin 336 it is easy to dismantle for Cleaning and they come with a Factory Scope Mount. It is more accurate than I can hold it. The stock is well designed and distributes Recoil forces very well. More positives than negatives

http://i243.photobucket.com/albums/ff55/jackoarcher/P8020642.jpg (http://s243.photobucket.com/user/jackoarcher/media/P8020642.jpg.html)

regards Jacko

[oscarflytyer]

Used '78 1895 Marlin lever recently for $475. Extra ammo (for brass!). Lee 405 HB mold - $25. Wheelweights. ~$30 dies. Custom case expander plug (for Lee universal expander) - $20. Already had the pan lube and cutter.

Just shot first cast bullet load - 38.5 gr IMR 3031 behind the oversized (.460) cast bullet. 3 rds at 25 yds. Very pleasant shooter, and two w/in 1", and third (called) 1" low - offhand. All after beating myself up with 20 odd 3" turkey loads! Was just shooting to see what recoil was like (no recoil pad/curved plastic buttplate) and if it would hit the paper...

Now I know why everyone loves the 45/70. Bet I could easily put my entire setup together for ~$600, assuming you already reload.

[tygar]

Hi guys,
45-70 attracts me very much. Seems like a great lead boolit shooter. Only problem is, not sure which one to go with? Or to go with a lever at all?

Thoughts, recommendations? Can't afford much over $800 to be honest.

If you had that budget, and a want for a 45-70. Which would you pick? I'm not against single shots either.

Thanks, AC>

Marlin 1895. Well made, shoot good. Whatever barrel length you prefer. I'm not a 45-70 guy but have the .450 & had the 45-70. Best bang for the buck.

[Ramjet-SS]

Ruger Number 1 is great suggestion but you still lucky to get one at under $800.00 they are out there and it would be a great rifle that can allow loading the 45-70 to both ends of spectrum.

Henry
H&R
Rossi
Browning or Winchester repro 1886
Marlin
Chiappa leverguns model 1886

[doc1876]

these are all great suggestions. I just want to tell you what not to get. Do not get an IAB. I know that they look good, and can be tempting, but if you opt for a single shot, get one of the better ones, you will save a lot of money in repairs and be much happier in the long run.
I am now thinking of a lever gun myself, so again, I really enjoy the experiences that are being shared.

[DLCTEX]

I shoot the RD 460-350 and RD 460-420 over 4759 powder and they shoot very well in the Guide Gun. These are no longer available from Michael, but one of the custom makers on the site produces one or both.

[dh2]

another vote for the marlin , I have the 45/70 but want a .444 Marlin just to play with

[TXGunNut]

NOE makes a few versions of the RD 460-350 including gas check, plain base and hollow point.

[6pt-sika]

Think I had something like eight variouse Marlin 1895's in 45-70 .

Shot cast in them all except the 1895XLR .

Anyway over the course of time I found there were exactly six molds I really liked for the cartridge and they are ;

Ranch Dog 460-300GC
Ranch Dog 460-350GC
Ranch Dog 460-425GC

Lyman 330 grain Gould HP PB

BRP 462-465GC

BallistiCast 462-550GC

[6pt-sika]

another vote for the marlin , I have the 45/70 but want a .444 Marlin just to play with


I've fooled with both cartridges quite a bit shooting cast and jacketed .

Tried about eight different Marlin 45-70's along with a BFR 45-70 revolver and about 24 different Marlin 444's a H&R Handi 444 and a TC Contender 444. And while I truely believe the 45-70 to be the better overall deer/bear/etc cartridge I find I enjoy the 444 more for shooting paper and just plain casting bullets .

I am now down to one 45-70 Trapdoor original and about 12 or 14 444 rifles . I suspect the 444's will get down to four in the next year . But I still enjoy shooting targets with them and of course killing deer and black bear .

[BloodGroove4570]

You are correct in assuming that 45-70 is a casters/handloaders dream! I would suggest you find a good used Marlin made before the Remington buy out. The gun will be proofmarked JM in front of receiver on the barrel and will have Ser# starting with 91 or Greater! Id actually start at 92+. Thats when the quality ceased to exist in 2009. So you want ser# 92, 93, 94 etc etc. once you hit 99 it'll goto 00, 01,02 good years all of'em from where I started!
A Guide Gun is a very nice little gun and very accurate. I had one but sold it to buy a Cowboy.
If you need anymore assistance dont hesitate to hollar...

Good Luck
BloodGroove4570

PS
To figure the YOM (year of manu) subtract first two digits of ser#from 100, that gives the YOM. You want before 2009!
If Ser# starts with MR (Remington) Run AWAY! :-)

[starmac]

I would not buy a remlin sight unseen, but then again I am not much on buying any of them sight unseen, unless it is just way too good a deal to pass up, but I am glad I have my remlin guide gun, it is just as good as any that I ever saw before the buyout.

[snowwolfe]

Owned a couple of 1886's and two Marlins before Remington bought them out. Most recently purchased a Henry 45-70. I would purchase a Henry over any older Marlin any day.