This is the perennial question.....Marlin Microgroove and Bullet size.
I obtained a Marlin Lever Gun - model 1895 ss in 45-70.
Haven't shot it yet.
The guy I bought it from also included a box of Leverevolution
45-70 ammo - CJ'ed Bullets.
The CJ bullet fits into the barrel right up to the Brass Case.
I am supposing this will shoot really bad as it appears the rifling can't
engrave the CJ'd slug, it being too small a diameter. ? ? ?
I have several 45-70's (H&R's & Pedersoli Sharps) - so I use the
LEE 457-450-F in them and in a Martini-Henri (paper patched).
I read that I should use a .461 or .462 dia cast bullet or paper patch
the LEE up to that size in the Marlin Microgroove 45-70.
I paper patched this cast bullet with two wraps of tracing paper, and it mics
out to .463-4, so it seems too big - is that too large a diameter ?
I decided to "Slug" the Marlin with a the pure lead cast .457 LEE just to see if the
bullet engraves at all.
Here is what I got....
I was surprised that it engraved so well !
I do believe that this LEE cast bullet would work in my 1895 Marlin Microgroove rifle
without any problem.
Am I wrong ?
You ask, "What powder are you going to use ?"
I use Black Powder usually, but this Marlin should take smokeless also. ? ? ?
Some smokeless load (IMR 4227)would be good to have around for home defense (God Forbid!).
DoctorBill