Lever poll

[2ndAmendmentNut]

Alright when it comes to levers which are your favorites? I think I got most of the popular ones up there.

[45r]

Marlin with 45-70 and 45colt being favorite caliburs.

[9.3X62AL]

I went with Marlin due to the microscopically small preference for the easier field-strip of this make. By numbers, the field is even (3 each), with a Savage 99 that could use some company as well.

[Three-Fifty-Seven]

I also went Marlin . . . that's all we got, and it's good enough for me!

[redneckdan]

had to throw one in there for the savage 99. Definitely one of if not my most favorite rifles to take darn near anywhere....when Jen lets me....[smilie=l:

[Snapping Twig]

Just bought two Marlins this month. My first levers, but a long time searching.

1895 GBL 45-70

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a51/SnappingTwig1/P7300016.jpg

1894 44mag, 1978 vintage.

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a51/SnappingTwig1/P6260005.jpg

[jh45gun]

I have a Marlin 95 in 45/70 a Winchester 94 in 30/30 and a Henry in 22 Mag I like them all for different reasons and applications.

[gifford]

Marlin 94, old model is fine shooter and handy as all get out. I have a new to me Rossi 45 Colt carbine that I haven't shot yet, so had to go with Marlin.

[home in oz]

Marlins are smoother than most I have shot.

[looseprojectile]

Rossi gives me more bang for the buck. Have the .357 carbine and .44 rifle.
Better guns than original 92s. I have probably owned three dozen 92 Winchesters. Can't afford them now!
Had one of the Marlin 94 .44 Magnums and couldn't deal with the 1 in 38 twist and large groove dimension.
I feel what with the John Wayne cool factor the 92s are more wild west feeling.
No lack in accuracy.
Stronger than Marlin? Don't want to start a pithing contest!!

Life is good

[ErikT]

Savage 99 all the way, baby! I still have a .250 and a .38-55, and they both bring home whatever they are pointed at. I also have a Winchester 1894, but I don't care for how it tends to sling ejected brass right into my eye socket. Glad I wear shooting glasses.

Erik.

[NickSS]

I had a hard time but went with Marlin as I have more of them than any other brand. However, My favorite lever rifles are my Rossi in 45 colt and My Winchester 94 plain jane beeter 30-30 that goes with me everywhere.

[ReloaderFred]

I own about a dozen Marlins, two 94 Winchesters (.30-30 & .44 Magnum) and one Savage Model 99. My vote goes to Marlin for simplicity, functionality and high fun factor.

Hope this helps.

Fred

[Heavy lead]

I have had several Marlins, and 94's, my favorites and IMO the best quality of all time were the original Miroku repro's from the 80's that Browning ran, all the them, I or my dad have had all of them at one time or another and they were all great guns. Located a brand new in the box 86 a couple of years ago in the carbine, but didn't have the money at the time.
I must say though, if I could have any of them band new it would be a brass rotor Savage 99, them are just sweeeeeeeeeeeeet!

[johnvid]

I just added two Marlins in the last week. 1895 and a 1894 in 44 mag. I'm lookin forward to a whole lot of trigger time.

[Throckmorton]

although not the best made by far,my fun gun for clanging steel has always been my Rossi '92 clone in .45colt.It goes to the range more than any others.

[geargnasher]

I picked Marlin because as a whole line they are the simplest, best functioning, most reliable, user-friendly, and affordable leverguns ever made. Like Estwing hammers, they just plain work. Glad I own a Marlin, I want more.

That being said, I have shot a friend's Browning BL-22 and that was the slickest, most fun and accurate little .22 I have ever fired. VERY hard to put down. I'm also partial to the Uberti/Cimarron 1860 Henry in .45 Colt. I have fired many others, even owned a few, but they didn't stay long.

Gear

[6pt-sika]

I own 26 leveractions at the moment .

Have one nice old 1905 vintage Winchester Model 1894TD in 30WCF and all the rest are Marlin's in 444 or 45-70 . Well there is a Marlin in 375 WIN but I think I just sold it , if so I'll replace it with another 444 or 45-70 !

So with all that being said which brand do you think I picked LOL's !

[RobS]

I like the 92 design but a Winchester is not in my vocabulary $$$$ nor does any other over the counter manufacturer sell a lever action in 454 Casull so for a nice, solid, accurate rifle that may need a TLC for a silky smooth action without the ding in the wallet, I voted Rossi.

However if I was going with a 45-70 then Marlin.

[Fenring]

Ruger 96/44 - 'cos that's what I got and I love it. The only annoyance for me is the four round mag, as it's my pig hunting gun.

[winelover]

Ruger 96/44 - 'cos that's what I got and I love it. The only annoyance for me is the four round mag, as it's my pig hunting gun.

Here, in Michigan, we can only legally hunt with a maximum magazine capacity of 5 rounds. Consequently, I must "plug" my 1894 Marlin for deer hunting. PITA

Winelover

[kingstrider]

Most of mine are Marlins but I have others as well.

[451whitworth]

Alright when it comes to levers which are your favorites? I think I got most of the popular ones up there.

Marlin of course will win this poll. they are affordable and have been around forever, are in current production, and are made in the USA. my personal favorites are the Winchester designs (originals and repros) as i find them much more interesting and i like how well the different action designs of the 1886, 1895, 1894, 1892 handle the cartridge families they are chambered in. Savage would be second.

[10 ga]

I didn't see the manufacturer of largest selling lever action of all time mentioned in the poll. It is the one I still have. Daisy in .17 cal

[izzyjoe]

i voted marlin cause they are cheaper than the rest, and they just plain work. it's easier to scope if you wish. i remember going to the pawn shops with dad before deer season and the racks were fun of them, take you'r pick $100. usally with a sling and scope, them days are gone forever. it seems they have tripled in price much like everything else.:cry:

[Dframe]

I've only owned Winchesters and Marlins but have been hankering for a Savage for years. Maybe I'll find that irresistable 99 someday.

[herbert buckland]

I lick early BP cartridge rifles so for me it is the Spencer

[6pt-sika]

I've only owned Winchesters and Marlins but have been hankering for a Savage for years. Maybe I'll find that unresistable 99 someday.

Been there done that and got over it [smilie=1:

The pair of 300 Savages I had liked cast as did the 99 I had in 30-30 . They just never warmed up to me like a nice old 1893 Marlin or 1894 Winchester !

[badgeredd]

I really can't say that I have a big favorite but I voted Winchester. The majority of my levers are Winchester or clones of them. Most of the clones are of Winchesters and I DO like the feel of them when carrying and shooting the best. I simply like levers!!!!! That said I also have 4 Marlins which are all good guns. I'd love to get a Henry after shooting a friends. A savage in 358 would be a nice addition.

Edd

[Dogg]

Since I just got done beating my brains out this morning trying to get this dam-ed Marlin 1894 .44mag to print a decent group, I am going to say the 1892 Rossi which I have 6 pre safety 45 colt, 4 of which are unfired consecutive serial numbers, and the dumb safety models in .44mag and .357mag. All of which shoot way better than this marlin. But also have a marlin 1895 ltd IV which I haven't fired yet so can't say how I will like it.

The 1894 is out of here!

[waksupi]

The 86 Winchester would get my vote as the best. It just FEELS like a rifle should.

[tom threepersons]

I have a number of these old critters. My old 94 WCF just turned 52 years old has and does travel with me in her saddle scabbard about every day. The old 30 WCF just loves 150 grs. FN molded from WWs.:lol:

[dnepr]

marlins with savage 99's a close second

[Johnw...ski]

Savage works for me.

John

[rmb721]

I have eleven lever guns, all Marlin.

[J Miller]

For the longer rifle cartridges I prefer Winchester. I do however have one 94AE Trapper in .45 Colt.
For the shorter pistol length cartridges I prefer Marlin.

Joe

[KirkD]

It depends upon what era we are talking about. For late 1800's and early 1900's rifles, my preference is Winchester. For modern leverguns, my preference might be Marlin, but my first choice would be the leverguns produced by Browning/Miroku or Winchester/Miroku, although Uberti and Cimarron make some pretty tempting fare as well, and without the tang safeties and rebounding hammers.

[frankenfab]

My vote goes to Marlin for simplicity, functionality and high fun factor.

Hope this helps.

Fred

I agree. [smilie=2:

[NWFLYJ]

I would like to try the Winchester 92, but all I could afford is a Rossi 92. I ordered a DVD on how to slick it up from www.stevesgunz.com works smoooooth. was easy to do. .45LC of course. Mark

[Combat Diver]

I voted Winchester for its John Browning designs, 86,92,94 & 95. My current favorite is my Marlin 1894S in .41 Mag that I've had since 87'. Wish I could get a Win/Browning 1892 in .41!

[Thin Man]

I would have voted for both the Marlin and Winchester lines, as I use both, but the survey allowed only one vote. The Marlins offer modern materials and technology along with a grand selection of calibers. The Winchesters are more nostalgic in function and caliber and provide great fun. Either will put venison in the freezer. Is it unreasonable to carry two rifles into the woods at the same time?

Thin Man

[6pt-sika]

Is it unreasonable to carry two rifles into the woods at the same time?

Thin Man


Not at all during our Dmage Control Permit hunting I ALWAYS carry a pair of 444's with cast bullets to my ladder stand !

I have one set up with a heavier bullet for bear and then the other has a lighter bullet for deer !

If I were lucky enough to get a deer with the light bullet rifle and a second one walked by I would more then likely try the heavy bullet rifle on the second deer !

I just do the DCP hunts so I can blood new rifles and try new molds :bigsmyl2:

[Three-Fifty-Seven]

Is it unreasonable to carry two rifles into the woods at the same time?

Thin Man

I usually always carry two, as I'm usually after rabbits with either a 12 gauge, or a 22 rimfire . . . coyotes and illegal drug smugglers need something that will reach out a ways . . . I either carry a Rem 700 in 270 with 6X18 scope, or AK 47 with a bunch of ammo . . . plus I always have a side arm on, or two . . . !:mrgreen:


[smilie=s:

[Artful]

Well as I could only pick just one - Savage 99 in 358 wcf

But I like all my lever's Marlin (4), Rossi (1), Winchester (2) - in that order.

[44 flattop]

I grew up with Winchesters. Didn't get my first Marlin until I was pushing 40 years old. Now I rarely shoot any of the Winchesters and the Marlins are the only ones out of the safe.

44

[bowhunter]

I voted marlin,but i love em all!

[Freischütz]

I'll take the Win M95 in 35 or 405.

[uhrichf]

My Winny 94 in .30-30 (made in 1969) shoots great. I wish my .44 mag 94 did not have a tang safety.

My Italian’s shoot ok, but could use better sights. 1866 in .357 (wont cycle .38 Spl), 1876 in .45-60.

Still working on my Marlin 1895 Cowboy .45-70 (Front sight is too tall for Lyman tang sight, I have a Marbles fold down sight when using the tang sight).

My Browning’s (All from 1980’s and no safety’s) 92 (.44 mag), 1886 (.45-70) Marbles fold down rear sight, and Marbles tang sight, and 1895 (.30-06) Lyman type 21 rear sight. All three shoot outstanding!

My over all favorite is the to heavy to pack 1886.

[shdwlkr]

Well my first lever was a winchester and I have just stayed with them because where ever I have been there have been more winchesters than anything else.

[helice]

Lord Have Mercy!

You only let me choose ONE. I chose a Win...Brown...Ross...Savage.

[KY Jim]

I won't buy anything but a Marlin, but I do like those 1886's? in 30-06, and if you gave me a Browning I'd certainly KEEP it. My brother had a 94 and it jammed constantly, which ruined me for Wincesters.

[shdwlkr]

Had only one winchester jam on me and it was a model 94 in 357 mag and a few years after I traded it off towards a model 1886 I found out it was and easy fix.
None of my other winchesters have given me a bit of problems.

[Grapeshot]

Alright when it comes to levers which are your favorites? I think I got most of the popular ones up there.

Over the years I've owned 3 M1866's. One in .44-40, Two in .44 Spl.
3 M1873's. One in .44-40, two in .45 Colt
One 1860 Henry. All of these are toggle link Winchester actions made by Uberti.

One Winchester M1876 Centenial in .45-60 WCF

I have also owned One Marlin 1895 in .45-70 and an 1894 in .45 Colt.

I only have two 1873's and the 1876 Centennial Carbine left.

[Four Fingers of Death]

My most used leverrifles are my Uberti 1873 in 44/40, followed by my Rossi in 38/357. Hard to say what my fav is, for plinking, cowboy target work my 1873, for hunting my 444Marlin, but then again I haven't had a chance to shoot my 25/20 yet. I think if I had a 25/35, that might be my fav, fond of my oct Bbl 94 Classic in 30/30 as well.

[Mavrick]

I voted for Winchester eventhough my fav, a Browning M71 .375/348 Imp, isn't quite a Win.
I really like to carry my M92, a Rossi .256 Mag with a 21" barrel, but I guess it's not really a Win, either.
I know...My M94 is a real Winchester, even if it is a 22" barrelled .25/35 Imp, with a 1/2-magazine.
One of these days, I'll pop up with a Standard Rifle .30/40(probably, but maybe not-Improved) M95.
It's very hard to live without an M99 .250, as I have a LOT of CBs in my man-cave for my other .25s.
Maybe one day, ahhh.
Have fun,
Gene

[Phillip]

My 30-30 94 win is my favorite with my 92 Rossi second.

[no34570]

I voted Winchester,but love my Marlin 444S.
Only went Winchester,as I have two Model 94 "Big Bore" XTR in .307Win & .356Win,great rifles.

Also have two Rossi rifles in 44 Mag(24 in barrel half Octagon,half round)and a 454 Casull (very fun gun).

Would love to get a 94 in .375Win:bigsmyl2:

[onesonek]

Discounting my Win.94 BB gun. I just came with my first lever gun and first repeating rifle in over 35 years. That being a Marlin GBL .45-70. Always wanted a lever, and then time finally came. I also would love to have a 99 in .358 win. and like above. the 94 in .375.

Dave

[Ron60]

I voted Winchester, but my rifle is the Browning remanufacture of the Winchester M-71. I understand that it was first patented by Browning - so I could have voted either way I guess.
This is chambered in .450 Alaskan. I use Ranger Ricks 550 grain hard cast with IMR 3031 powder. Have not chronographed the load yet. Actually still working up a load for it and would let anyone who's interested know what I come up with once I arrive at a safe accurate load with this boolit.
It's a gas to shoot with Remington 405 grain soft points and shoots nice cloverleaf groups at 50 yards. I have not yet shot any 100 yard groups with it. I will be sticking to the peep rear with brass 'ghost ring' and ray bar front. I can hit gallon cans and similar sized targets offhand with it out to 100. So I would use it with confidence on deer at that range.
The Remington bullet is not a good choice around here however as we have brown bears and that bullet expands too fast to penetrate reliably. Of course lots of browns have fallen to these bullets but a big heavy cast bullet will go from one end to the other with a big leaky hole.
Ron

[modoc]

I voted other because I could not vote for multiple. With that said, I like Winchester/Browning (design) rifles, Marlins (Newer) have not felt right in my hands. I have 2 Browning 92s in 357 and 44, a Rossi 92 in 357, Uberti '73 in 357, Win 1892 in 25-20, 32-20 and 38-40, 1894 in 30 WCF and 38-55, 1886 in 45 Govt and an 1887 in 12 Gauge ;)

It all depends on what I am doing and how the spirit moves me in the morning :D

[ghh3rd]

I just bought (on it's way) a Marlin 1895GBL in .45/70 Had a Westernfield .22 rifle when I was 17 yrs old. Took me another 40 years to get the next one, just a slight upgrade :-)

25008

[mikeystew]

Marlin! easy to strip, solid, accurate, timeless... what else can i say? my .444 is easily my go to gun. but my henry .22lr gets high marks for fun factor on the cheap!

[Dogg]

ghh3rd I see you are the one that bought that GBL off Guns America right out from under me! LOL Made me have to spend an extra $50 and buy one of the ABLs listed there. Just goes to show, hesitate and you loose!

[rintinglen]

I don't own a ruger, nor a Browning, but I've got at least one of all the rest and my favorites are Marlins, except for one Winchester 1895 30-40 Takedown. That said My 94s get a lot of play time especially with cast bullets. 311-419 and 8 grains of herco is a ton-o-fun.

10-28-2010--Update now I do own a Browning! Finally found aModel 53 in32-20 that I could afford. -- Pick it up Saturday.

[Charlie Sometimes]

I voted for the Marlin mostly because of the variety of calibers and the ability to mount different styles of sights or scopes with ease. I love my 1895SS 45-70- a great shooter! [smilie=w:

However, I love the traditonal styling of the Winchester 94! Love that look- especially the 94 Antique SRC with the case hardened reciever and scroll engraving. :grin: I also like the Canadian Centennial carbine model- that short octagon barrel is really nice. I also really like the Big Bore 94 in 375 Win, too.

In the Winchesters, I PREFER the top ejects! :veryconfu I prefer straight stocks over pistol grip styles, too. :grin:

I hate the push button safety versions of either, but I can tolerate one on a Marlin, but not on a Winchester. It ruins the looks and styling. :evil:

It was a tough choice!

[Four Fingers of Death]

The 1886 Ubertis are almost here! I may have to revise my choices. :D

[Chapped Lips]

this maybe considered heresy with all the classics listed & their cartridges but i vote for my model 88 win in 284....handles like a 28 ga. o/u...first wife found it posted on the bank billboard with a 4x weaver...$125 in 1973....action was herky-jerky but a winter of polishin' all the guts made it like a hot knife slippin thru soft butter....spent all spring & half the summer putting it back together tho....
my dad's model 64 in 30WCF is the other favorite....he bought it right after WWII in a grocery/hardware store in espanola,nm....it's smooth slick....

[Good Cheer]

Oh, definitely the Ruger #3 action because accuracy with cast bullets was the whole point.
Didn't need another shot anyway because I never killed nothing with a second shot if the first one didn't connect.

[Four Fingers of Death]

I always fancied a Ruger No1 in the tropical trim in 45/70, but I have three 45/70s, I don't need anymore. Besides, the way my shoulder is going the trapdoor is about as strong a load as I can handle at the moment.

[6pt-sika]

Hmmm Marlin versus 8 "others" !

And Marlin has 50% of the vote !

And over twice as many as the Second Place company [smilie=p:

[longranger]

Winnies look better ,give me a 1873 any day:bigsmyl2:

[KCSO]

Uh how bout one of each? I currently have Uberti, Marlin, Rossi and Winchester on hand, but last week I worked on a Burgess. My all time favorite is the Winchester M1886.

[6pt-sika]

Winnies look better ,give me a 1873 any day:bigsmyl2:

I got friends in Buffalo Wyoming !

You wouldn't happen to originally be from Doylestown PA ?

[hickstick_10]

I own a few Henrys, various Winchesters leverguns, tried out the Rossi Pumas, but on a whim (when I found out they were closing the plant down) I bought a Marlin 1894 Cowboy in 357 magnum, its easily the best of the breed for handling, accuracy, fit and finish.

Sad thing is, is that I used to dismiss and scorn Marlins, figured they were for those who couldn't find Winchesters, man was I ignorant and wrong.

Damn shame Remington will probably cheapen them to a level beneath the Rossi, I'm going to make a point to purchase a few more older model marlins,

[mrc]

Marlins seem to fit and have a better action. John Wayne never reached for one in the movies or they would cost more than they do. They never quite had the PR work that winchester did.

[hicard]

I love all of my Marlins, especially my 1895 guide stainless 45-70. That is a 444 in my Avitar.

[home in oz]

My Marlin 45-70 is sweet to shoot.

[pls1911]

I have 'em both, in several calibers.
Marlin comes out on top by a wide margin.
STRONG... Simple design... ACCURATE... sanely priced... easier with optics.. responsive factory.
What's there not to like?

[bcr]

The foe-hammer is a Marlin GBL in .45-70, just got it a few weeks ago.

But my deepest love, and therefore my vote, is for my Browning 92 in .44 Mag. It will handle anything in North America this side of 200 yards, is deadly accurate, and IMHO is the most beautiful rifle I have ever seen. Also my BL-22 was my first rifle, and I can't imagine a quicker-handling, slicker little rifle. Someday I'll add the 26" oct bbl 1886, and hopefully sooner rather than later a 53 in 32-20. And let me never forget the 65 in .218 Bee!

[TonyM]

Marlin 45-70 Co-Pilot... enough said...

I realize this is not a factory rifle, but its the only rifle they (WWG) offer this conversion in...

http://www.wildwestguns.com/copilot.html

[bcr]

Marlin 45-70 Co-Pilot... enough said...

Respect.

[home in oz]

Must buy more lever guns

[yobohadi]

I voted for Winchester since that is all I own right now, a model 94 30-30 that has a smooth action and shoots so sweet.

But I do have my eyes on a Marlin 44 mag 1894 Deluxe and a Henry 22LR Frontier Octagon barrel for a fun plinker.

[rogn]

Bought a Rossi 45 colt for my son whos stationed at Ft Benning GA, so he could hunt hogs with somehting short and handy. Factory ammo is anemic and costly so I started working on a good hog load for him. Immediately decided I needed one for myself and bought the second in 45 colt also. I voted Rossi because I couldnt afford the time or cost for an original, especialy fora gun thts going to be dragged thru the mud , water and etc in the swamps of GA. The SS Rossi certainly filled the bill for this working application. It can also safely hurl a 300gr XTP at an astonishing velocity for a short cartridge. Ive got a Browning BL22 also, and its as slick as snailsnot but its too modern, too glossy, just doesnt feel like a well used tool. The Rossi won hands down in that contest. Havent had much experience with the others, but I know there are other winners out there.

[starmac]

My go too gun is a model 99 takedown in 300 savage. I've had this gun for 36 years with zero problems and it shoots as good as I can. I also have a pre 64 model 94 and a 39A that I like (I shoot left handed) but I always thought the M99 engineering was ahead of it's time. My 99 must have started out life as a 30 30 as the cabiler was X'd out and restamped when I aquired it.

[.357]

savage hands down i love my 300 savage 99. Hopefully (throw a prayer my way if you want) i'll be putting meat in the fridge with it later on this month.

[billsr]

I have two Winchester Model 1892's in .32-20 WCF, and one Marlin 1894 in .32-20 WCF also.

[crawfobj]

Where's the option for "YES"???

I have a Henry .22, a Winchester .30-30 and a Rossi .454/.45LC. I somehow find myself in between Marlins at the moment. I need to remedy that and hold you guys responsible for any trouble it causes with my better half.

[10x]

Golly gee - so many lever guns it is difficult to choose.
Savage and marlin come to the top. The Rossi copy of the 92 is up there
The win 88 and the BLR are nice guns but not to my taste - but I own one of each just in case I feel the urge to shoot them.

It really is a tossup between a couple of Savage 99s and the Marlin 336, and Marlin 95
The savage 99s do well with the 311465 and 311466. The 336 is a slick and smooth hunter with 150 grain lee bullets sized to .310 and the 45/70 has been a joy to shoot.

[hornsurgeon]

marlin, but the 2 win 71's that have been in the family since new are a close second.

[UNIQUEDOT]

Winchester period!

[Dorf]

I have three Winchester 94's (2 .30-30's and a .32 Spl vintage of 1937) and a Henry .22LR. As much as I like the Winnies, the Henry is the most fun to shoot and the smoothest action by far. I find that the best ammo for the Henry is Wolf Match Target -- it sure is "dirty" but it sure does shoot nice groups. s YMMV :-)

[jecjec13]

Winchester 94 forever, light load 30/30 150 gr cast at about 1000fps. It just dont get any better.

[felix]

Don't feel badly, Fenring, because I have that Ruger also. I like the idea of shifting into the next gear with my little finger. The Ruger has 20 twist which is a might much for full loads, as the newest Winnies have 26 inch which seem to be about perfect for carbine boolits (less than 350 grains). ... felix

[SGTM9]

I have both a 1892 Win in 25-20 and Marlin 336 in 30-30. Love them both Just don't care for the micro groove in the marlin for cast boolits.

[Old Shooter]

I like them all and own:
1. Marlin 336 in 35 Remington.
2. Marlin 1894 in 357 Mag.
3. Rossi 92 in 45 Colt.
4. Henry Golden Boy 22 LR.
5.Winchester 94 in 30-30.

[flatbed]

I have just completed my quest for all 4 Winchester Trappers. ...30-30, 357, 44, 45....plus I have a Lone Star Commemorative and a UGLY Ranger that outshoots all the rest !:castmine:

[Maineboy]

I didn't vote because I can't decide which is my favorite.
Winchester 1894 30WCF
Marlin 1895 SS 45-70
Marlin 336 pre-microgroove 30-30
Marlin 39A 22
Savage 99 300 Savage

[hicard]

I have mostly Marlins and wouldn"t get rid of any of them.

[WyrTwister]

Marlin , closely followed by Winchester & Rossi almost in a dead heat .

This is of what I own . And based in some part on price vs. performance .

Although , Marlins seem to be getting $$$ . Based on that , Rossi may soon edge Marlin out of first place in my mind ( if you do not intend to scope the rifle ) .

My impression is Henry's are too $$$ & I have some questions on how they are constructed ?

I also do not know much about the Mossburg (sp) ?

God bless
Wyr

[TNsailorman]

Savage 99 and Marlin in that order. But I wouldn't turn a Winchester out in the cold either. I have owned all 3 and have no regrets on buying any of the them. I have bought, traded for, shot and sold a ton of guns in my time that I wish I had held onto. The levers are right at the top of the list. Aw but it was a good ride. James

[Eutectic]

I shoot mostly older lever guns... Winchester is King of vintage.

[LVRFAN]

I like all of them. Like women, some are better than others- but they're ALL good! Nice avatar fenring!

[6pt-sika]

I hadn't viewed this thread in awhile !

And I still see Marlin is kicking the ****e out of all the rest COMBINED ;-)

[TNsailorman]

I just bought a Savage 99 in .300 Savage. Should have it in about 2 weeks. I do love the levers. James

[starmac]

My feeling is the 99 is one of the best ever. They were definately ahead of their time when they came out. I like the 300 too but save your brass the shells are not as readily available as they were just a couple years ago.

[TNsailorman]

Well, the Model 99 EG came in yesterday evening and now the work begins. There is more blueing loss than I had hoped for or you could see in the pictures but it is mechanically in very good + condition, so I can gradually turn it around and into something special. The bore looks to be in really nice shape, brite and strong rifling. I really need a original EG buttstock(it came with a replacement stock that is less than stellar condition--bubbaized) but I really don't have any hope of finding one at a decent price, so I do a little magic as best I can to the one that is on it that has a few minor to serious flaws. But the main thing is that I finally have the rifle I have always wanted and now its just a matter of fixing the few things wrong and enjoying it. The action works slick as a ribbon and I can't wait to get it to the range, which will be at least a month and a half. Great rifles, those little 99's. James

[Valley Forge]

I have had a long and deep affection for Savage followed by Winchester.

[GH1]

I voted for Marlin. It's the only one I own, an 1894 in .357.
When I was doing my buying research last year I narrowed it down to the Marlin & the Henry. The Henry was a little bit more but not enough to swat me. For me the decision was based on application. I use the Marlin to hunt with and I would get ill if I took a gorgeous Henry out in the woods and scratched the bejeesus out of that shiny receiver.
I think the Henry is just too beautiful to be a woods gun.
GH1

[Matthew 25]

Mine is my Winchester 92 in 44 mag, it's not a classic, but it sure does very well. I suppose I like my Rossi 92 in 357 a lot. Guess I like 92's. Guess I like levers in general.

[robertbank]

I voted Rossi. I now own two of them. The '92' I have are much smoother than my Win 94 in 30-30. 44 Mag is still a virgin as I am waiting for moulds and sizing dies.

The .367 Rossi is so sooooth and eats both .38spl and .357mag cases like a charm. So far the gun shows no preference for all my cast boolits.

On my wish list is another Rossi in .45Colt and a Marlin 39 in .22LR. We will see what the summer brings.

Take Care

Bob

[bjeffv]

for current models i really like the marlin value. Have a 45/70, had a 30-30. Old winchesters are so well built, but hard to find an affordable price for me.

[dagger dog]

I can't really vote, 'cause I've only owned 2 lever guns, a Mossberg 400 Palomino 22 rimfire,and my brand new Braztech-Rossi '92 .45 Colt caliber.

The Mossberg should have stayed with me I purchased it new in 1963, was a great looking rifle plus a good shooter,but like a lot of others I traded it, for a Savage 24 combo gun.

The Rossi was a pleasant suprise when I opened the box last Friday .

The oil finished hard wood stock(beech?) has some character and a nice dull satin sheen,the wood to metal fit though not perfect is very passable.

Bluing is even and bright on the receiver and curved butt plate, the octagonal 24" barrel is a sort of matt blue which give a nice contrast with the
polished blue.

The sights are lacking for serious shooting and are soon to be replaced with Marbles full buckhorn rear and ivory bead front.

The FUNKY little saftey mounted to the rear of the bolt is getting deep sixed, and will be replaced with a polished blue plug from StevesGunz. The painted red F and green S will get a good scrubbing with a nylon bristle brush and some paint thinner!

I've ran about 300 rnds or so of AZOOM Snap Caps-proofing dummies through the action 6 at a time, (hey those thing are 20 bucks fer half a dozen), without a hitch.

This weekend I should receive the up graded metal magazine cartridge follower to take the place of the CHEESIE PLASTIC one from the factory, and a new reduced power ejector spring. Then I will proceed to disassemble , clean, and lightly polish the innards.The trigger I would guess breaks at 5-6 lbs, but absolutley no creep.

It may not be a 1894 Marlin Cowboy, Wichester,or one of the Fancy I-TALIAN clones, and ya might get whatca pay fer, but for 497 bucks ya otta check one out

Can't wait to get it out and burn some powder!

[robertbank]

Well you pay around $500 and get way more than that in the rifle IMHO. Up here you can add on $150 to the price for new Rossi rifles. I am going to bet you are going to come back here and tell us you just went to the range and fell in love with that rifle....

Take Care

Bob

[Rafe Covington]

I have 2 Uberti 1876's and 1 Uberti 1873, also have a 1894 Trapper AE in 45 Colt, I really enjoy shooting my Uberti rifles, well made and accurate. I really enjoy the old style Winchester rifles, really wish I could afford originals. JMHO

Rafe Covington:redneck:

[Uncle Ji]

Easy, my 1894 Marlin in 44 mag a gift from my dad back in 1976. So much sentimental value especially since losing my dad in June of '07 but also a very reliable rifle that has put allot of pork in the freezer. My second favorite is my 1894 Winchester Trapper in 357 mag. Replaced the lawyerized hammer and spring with a late 70's vintage leaf spring hammer and the trigger pull is a sweet smooth 2.5 pounds. 3rd fav is my Taurus 62LAR lever action 22 rimfire in stainless which are rare birds nowadays. Removed the ugly safety on top of bolt, and plugged the hole. Also added a tang peep. Fun little rifle. I also have a couple 30-30s too a Marlin 36 square bolt, and a Mossberg 472 but I better stop here. ;-)

[sheriffoconee]

When my Daddy was 14 his father bought him a 94 Winchester (30WCF) to deer hunt with. When I turned 14, my Daddy gave it to me. I killed my first deer with it. Both my brothers killed their first deer with it. Guess what?? My son killed his first deer with it. I have carried it on patrol, it has done duty at my home...
It ain't as pretty as it used to be, but the marks on it are honest wear from a well loved rifle.
I checked the Winchester box in the poll....to me, the Winchesters is THE levergun..

[Jeff H]

.........The Rossi was a pleasant suprise when I opened the box last Friday...............

I agree with everything you said, especially that comment. I WAS surprised when I got mine out of the box - I expected less. Mine was $420 before a reasonable $20 for shipping and a reasonable $20 transfer fee.

Got it out and shot it some yesterday and was quite tickled with it. My Dad has never cared for levers and neither of us have ever had much use for the .357, but we were both impressed with theis particular combination. He's a gas check guy and I prefer to avoid them when possible. Everything I ran through it was plain base and everything from full power to .38 Special level loads left the bore gleaming.

I believe that wood is some "South American Harwood," maybe even related to what we used to call "Phillipine Mahogany" in high school shop, which was nothing like Mahogany, but straight-grained and not terribly hard. It scratches easily, so watch it. I left a mark on mine with my knife clip and it's light-colored underneath. I usually can't leave well enough alone and would have refinished it anyway, even though out of the box it looks very good. If I can ID the wood when I strip it some day, I will report back.

Nothing against .357s either. As I got older I found it and the .38 to both be very useful cartridges.

[bowfin]

I picked the Savage 99. The models with the tang safety, rotary magazine, cartridge counter, and loaded chamber indicator.

However, I part with tradition by liking those with a Monte Carlo stock. The one I have now (99A in .308) needs a leather cheekpiece for the K3W Weaver to be used without stretching my neck like an ostrich.

[Jeff H]

Well, I won't cast a vote for my Brother, but he just picked up a Savage in .300 Savage. Paid for it by selling a .308 Winchester 88 to my Dad.

I think they're both happy.

[garry r]

Marlin 45-70 and Henry in .22

[cavalrymedic]

I only have a Marlin 336, nice gun, very well made; however, Winchester made the nicest, clasiest, prettiest lever guns ever.

[cavalrymedic]

I do like the new Henrys, with brass actions and octagonal barrels. I wish they made one in 444 or 45-70. Now that would be one that I would be willing to buy new. I have bought exactly one gun new in my entire life and it's likely to be my last new gun. I just like a gun with a little history.

[45-70 Chevroner]

I never saw a lever action I didn't like. Well maybe one!!! I think it's a JC Higgins in 30-30 cal, my cousin owens it. I'm not sure of the make but that is the ugliest lever action I have ever seen.

[W.R.Buchanan]

I like the Marlins for several pretty good reasons. I own 5 Marlins right now. M39AS .22LR, 1894 Carbine .44Mag, 1894 Rifle .44mag, M336 .30-30, and a 1895 Cowboy in .45-70. I can hunt anything on this planet with this battery

First; they are affordable. I have excellent rifles I have paid as little as $250 for.[smilie=w:

Second; they are much simpler actions than any of the Winchesters.

Third; They are much easier to "clean up" IE: do an action job on, resulting in a gun which cycles almost effortlessly. :Fire:I can do an 1894 or 336 action in less than 2 hours, and the only parts to buy are a set of reduced level springs for the hammer and the lever detent. The instructions are on Leverguns.com, and since the guns mechinism is so simple the instructions are very easy to follow to a perfect result. They mainly need Deburring of the internal parts.

Fourth; They have really good wood once you strip off the "Marshield" coating and refinish with a multicoat oil finish. :mrgreen: There is a ton of hidden character beneath the GOO that Marlin spreads on it's stocks in the name of preservation.

Fifth; they are the easiest guns to field strip or completely strip down this makes it so you can, with very little effort, completely disassemble the gun for a complete cleaning or replacement of parts. Also replacement parts are inexpensive, and available from several different sources.

Sixth: they are strong guns and are available in many calibers that are suitable for everything from plinking to killing large American cars and light trucks.

Seventh; the design is one of the oldest and best proven lever action designs there is. The M39 has been in continuous production for 100 years and is basically unchanged. The same holds true for the 1894 except for a few years out of production, and the 336 evolution of the 1893/1895 which has gone 100 years as well.

All of this adds up to a combination of versitility and value that is pretty hard to beat .

just my .02 :lovebooli

Randy

[rbertalotto]

http://images56.fotki.com/v124/photos/2/36012/9510118/DSC_2315-vi.jpg
Top to bottom:
22RF 39 Mountie
32 H&R Magnum 1894CB
45LC 1894CB
45-70 1895G


I recently converted the bottom one , 1895G to an octagon barrel

http://images9.fotki.com/v131/photos/2/36012/9556651/DSC_2480-vi.jpg

Love those Marlins!

More here:
http://rvbprecision.com/shooting/marlin-1895g-from-round-to-octagon-barrel.html

[muleequestrian]

I have a plain Jane ( no mods ) Winny 94 Legacy in .30-30. I have a BLR in .308. I have a Jap 95 in .30-06 and a Marlin 95 GS in .45 - 70. I have a Uberti 1873 in .45 Colt and a Uberti 1876 in .50-95. I WANT a Savage 99 and Winny 88.


http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r271/muleequestrian/dyedshell.jpg



http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r271/muleequestrian/95WinchesterandMarlinGuideGun.jpg

The 95 GS is my black bear whacker. 525 grain cast boolits stop 'em quick.

http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r271/muleequestrian/Bulletmaking/95Winsling.jpg

The Jap Winny wears a CW type carbine sling. Why not ? It's an SRC, and I'm tall enough to keep it out of the dirt. I put a shoot through muzzle cover on it. I use it for deer and shoot 200 grain cast boolits at deer. I use scout scopes for the hunting guns, but I had to make my owm mount for the 95 since none are available.

I'm addicted to leverguns.

[chj3]

Best --- early 1950's Marlin 336 in .30-30.

More interesting --- Savage 99, .30-30, B&L 4x scope.

Under appreciated --- Marlin 56, more accurate than my Marlin 39, but trigger could be better.

[300winmag]

I like my 336 RC 30-30 microgroove nice shooter

[sljacob]

I went with uberti due to the fact that my 1860 replica henry in .45lc is the one that I shoot the most, however my heart has always been with winchester.

[cbshtr]

31106Just picked up a 1895 LTD IV yesterday for about 60% of what it is worth. Looks like it was never fired. I knew the guy who had owned it and in 30 years in the same gun club I never saw him shoot once. Other than a few minute marks the gun is perfect. I am not all that crazy about the Leupold Scout setup and may just go with a standard scope setup. Was looking for a 444 or 45/70 and was not at all expecting to find this gem in the local shop. The shop owner didn't think it would sell so he had it in a back room. It pays to ask. The action is really tight so I'm going to have to work on that.

[Dan Cash]

Well, I can only vote once unlike some elections in some states. I have 3 Marlins, 3 99s, one Rossi and one Winchester 95. Each of them is near and dear to me; their usage is dependant upon the situation. If I could hav only one, it would be the 95 Win in .30-40 or the 99 Savage in .300 for a do everything but elephant cartridge.

[Jim Flinchbaugh]

Another Savage 99 fan here. .308 caliber
Current one is in the gunmakers shop getting a total custom job.
That reminds me, I need to go beat his head in, he's had it for too long!

[Bush Pilot]

Marlin without a doubt. I've got 1 or 2 .41 magnums (OK, 5 for sake of accuracy) I've also got a .357, .44 & .30/30. Simple and accurate.

[bigbear]

I suspect I have a Marlin allergy. I have a bunch of Winchester levers, Browning levers and Savage99's and for some odd reason have never had a hankering for a Marlin, after 40years of shooting. I'm not sure why, but then I think rhubarb anyhting should be against the law, likewise tapico pudding. Winchester 71's best lever action rifles EVER!;-)

[Hogpost]

Win '86 in 40-65, Win '71 in 348, EMF '92-clone in 44-40; shoot only black powder. in the 40 & 44. A 38-55 (Marlin Cowboy, Win Legacy or Legenday Frontiersmen) would probably be my favorite, if I can ever find one at less-than-insane price. Always preferred Win over Marlin; the Marlin has a slicker & simpler action, but somehow the Wins always felt (and looked) better. As the hippies said, "If it feels good, do it!"

[Hogpost]

I suspect I have a Marlin allergy. I have a bunch of Winchester levers, Browning levers and Savage99's and for some odd reason have never had a hankering for a Marlin, after 40years of shooting. I'm not sure why, but then I think rhubarb anyhting should be against the law, likewise tapico pudding. Winchester 71's best lever action rifles EVER!;-)

Don't know about the tapioca, but I'd buy a 6-pack of '71s if they ever make them again. And my old Hungarian neighbor lady makes some fierce rhubarb brandy: tastes great and it makes great starting fluid!

[Ed in North Texas]

I voted for my Savage 99s (1 .300, 1 .250), even though I own 3 Marlins ('95 in .45-70, '94s 1 each in .44 and .357).

[Ed in North Texas]

snip I'm not sure why, but then I think rhubarb anyhting should be against the law, likewise tapico pudding. Winchester 71's best lever action rifles EVER!;-)

I agree on the Win 71 being a great rifle, but you obviously are missing one of life's great pleasures - Strawberry-Rhubarb pie. Each to his own, leaves more for me!:-D

[HDS]

I have a .44mag rossi and a .22lr Winchester 9422. I wouldn't mind a Marlin guide gun either.

[Ziptar]

http://www.ziptar.com/Marlin/The_Marlins.jpg

Top: Pre-Saftey Marlin 1894 - Was a 44 mag, I had re-barreled for 45 Colt.

Bottom: Marlin 39M. Was in real rough shape when I bought it and a had a gigantic custom large loop on it. A few parts, new stock and forearm, and allot of elbow grease later it looks and shoots good.

[THerbert]

I have a Marlin 39A in .22LR thats smooooooth. A Winchester 94AF in .45LC that's not, it needs some work.

The one that got away -- a Marlin '92 in .32-20 with an octagonal barrel and original pistol grip stock. It was nearly a hundred when I got it, and it was really smooth. And in a poorly considered moment of weakness I traded it away. I'll probably never be able to replace it.:-(

[wink]

I like the pistol grip stock on the XLT'S. Being a trap and sporting clays shooter the grip feels more natural to me.

[Hogpost]

I prefer the straight grip, but that's just because my hands are small & thumbs are short. I can barely grab my Win '71 348
Finally snagged that 38-55 lever I wanted for BP, to add to my other 3 Wins:
an OF Winchester Commemorative '94, perfect shape, used just enough to loosen up the "factory new" tightness. 24" octagon barrel balances perfectly.

[Ziptar]

I forgot to post a picture of the lever that was on the 39M when I got it in comparison to the factory lever.

When I gigantic in my previous post I mean ridiculously gigantic!

http://www.ziptar.com/Marlin/39M/Gorilla_loop.jpg

[hicard]

I vote Marlin and in 45-70, 444,35 Remington and 30-30 in this order.

[Gunnut 45/454]

I put Winchester , though I love my Marlins. All I can say is the Winchesters just have that "feel" to them! I can't say it any better for me they just mount and carry so much better then anything else I had!

[Clinebo]

I voted Rossi. My Mod '92 in .45 Colt is so fun its now my woods carry gun for my ATV. I had a Win 94 in .375 Win that I sold to buy my Marlin 1895 STBL 45-70. In the fall the Rossi will sit while the Marlin rides along. I have a Browning 1886 MT Centennial 45-70 too. But its to purdy to shoot! Oh.....do Model 1874 Sharps count as a levergun??? Cause I have 2 of them too....45-70 and a Big 50.

[1895gunner]

I'm a Marlin man......

From the front

- 1895M 450 Marlin
- 1895G 45/70
- 444P 444 Marlin
- 336D 35 Remington
- 1894P 44 Mag

http://i1102.photobucket.com/albums/g441/1895gunner/100_1038.jpg

[44Vaquero]

Winchester 1894 carbine in 44 Mag of course.

[Slainte]

Winchester lever actions, but only up to the 1950s.
Afterwards, they went cheap and therefor inferior.

[pmer]

http://castboolits.gunloads.com/imagehosting/thum_175404dfed0d98664f.jpg (http://castboolits.gunloads.com/vbimghost.php?do=displayimg&imgid=1242)

I went to a auction that had some guns in the bill and picked up this Rossi .357 and the holster. The holster came with a belt that is too small and it was so dry it was cracking when the leather was flexing. Hopefully lots of mink oil will help.

The Rossi is older because it doesn't have the safety on top of the bolt But its in good shape.

http://castboolits.gunloads.com/imagehosting/thum_175404dfed81c4de73.jpg (http://castboolits.gunloads.com/vbimghost.php?do=displayimg&imgid=1245)

[Swampman]

I love my 1895G and my 336TS

[Linstrum]

I'm quite surprised that Rossi is not a bit more popular, they are not an exact copy of the 1892 Winchester, but mine is well-made and finished, and it is darned accurate with .357 Magnum rounds. It key-holes with .38 Special ammo and I can't hit the broad side of a barn from the inside with that ammo. I compared mine to an original 1892 Winchester and they felt the same. My 1892 Rossi is the pre-Puma small lever loop. I took the saddle ring off the receiver because it slapped around making noise, and was dinging up the finish on the receiver.

[357Mag]

Howdy -

My new ( Marlin made in Connecticut ) Marlin 336XLR in .35 Rem.

Incredible accuracy, unbelievable trigger pull ( light ), robust construction, stylish; and in a practical chambering fo rmy shooting needs.

357Mag

[HDS]

I'm quite surprised that Rossi is not a bit more popular, they are not an exact copy of the 1892 Winchester, but mine is well-made and finished, and it is darned accurate with .357 Magnum rounds. It key-holes with .38 Special ammo and I can't hit the broad side of a barn from the inside with that ammo. I compared mine to an original 1892 Winchester and they felt the same. My 1892 Rossi is the pre-Puma small lever loop. I took the saddle ring off the receiver because it slapped around making noise, and was dinging up the finish on the receiver.

I really like mine, it's new production in 44mag and without a safetyso it's really as close to the real deal as you can get. It shoots high at 55 yards but accurately, at 75 yards they seem to shoot almost dead on again. Once I get the williams FP mounted I expect it will be a tack driver.

[bruce drake]

I voted a while ago but never posted my thoughts. I own a Win 94 in 32 Win Special made in 1936 that has about zero finish left on the receiver but lots of honest wear on it. I also own a Sears Ted Williams Winchester(clone) 94 in 30-30 that I bought last summer and I haven't had a chance to really play with it before I deployed, other than to find it shoots where aimed.

So I guess I'll have to say I prefer Winchester simply because those are the levers that I own.

Bruce

[Prairiewolf]

My Browning 53 in 32-20 is real purdy to look at, and a hoot to shoot.
My Marlin 1895 Cowboy in 45-70 can sure make the gongs ring, 10 times!
My Henry .22 is just plain fun to shoot.
My Uberti / Winchester '73 in .357 is probably my favorite, there's no way I'll ever part with that one.

[Doc.Holliday]

My Savage 1899 TD in 250 -3000
My Winchester 92 in 44-40
My Winchester 73 in 38-40
My Stevens 425 in 35 rem
my Winchester 94 trapper in 30/30
My Rossi 92 trapper in 45Colt
My Rossi 92 Ranch Hand in 45 colt
in that order of operating smoothness.

Regards
Doc.

[tcoupe24]

I have a mod 99 Savage 303 cal. mod.94 30-30 cal. and a Uberti Henry in 44-40. The Uberti is one of the most accurate cast boolit guns I have ever shot.

[xringdave]

winchester 9422 and 9422 mag. great little rifles

[craveman85]

i currently have 5 winchester 32 specials, 1 marlin 45-70, 1 marlin 357, 1 henry .22 ive owned 3 rossi's 1 original purchase and 2 replacements. everyone had its own issues. i no longer own a rossi.

[craveman85]

well the marlins and winchesters didnt have issues just the rossi's. never seen one rust out as quick as the second and i never even had it outside. after 3 days in my safe it was rusting. ive left the same jc higgins 12 guage in there for 5 or 6 years now.

[shdwlkr]

Well I guess I have to say my Favorite lever action rifle is a winchester, why because I have so many of them and no others. Have been looking at marlins now since they are no longer made just might interest me also. Yep I like what you can't buy new anymore. Just something about buying a rifle that no longer is made that interests me.

[TXGunNut]

Favorite? Winchester! Have Trappers in .30-30 and .45Colt, a BB in .375Win. I'd love to have an 1886 and/or 1895 and someday hope to have a Rossi 92. Why a Rossi? Because I feel if we went back 100 yrs the 92's would look more like the Rossi's than anything built today.
When I'm hunting you'll probably catch me with a 45-70 ported Guide Gun or a 336 in .35 Remington. Yep, Marlins!
Used to hunt with the BB on occasion, it's an honest 98% gun but I can't use buckhorn sights anymore so it's a safe queen. Have a lifetime supply of brass and bullets for it. :| Trappers have never been hunting, never made it out of the truck, anyway. :-(
I love hunting hogs and can't resist busting a big boar and the Guide Gun does an awesome job of that. 336 in .35 Rem is a gun I've been wanting for some time so it saw field duty right away. Handles like we've been hunting together forever. Guide Gun and both Trappers are CB projects but am kicking around CB's in the .35 Remington in spite of the MG bbl.
Last few Savages I've seen were tough to pass up. Browning? Awesome and beautiful guns.
Guess there aren't many leverguns I don't like.:D

[Marvin S]

I got to go with pre 64 Winchester's mainly 92's 94's 64's and 53's. Really like the take downs. Nothing wrong with the Marlins as I have two, a 94-357 and the 1897 Texan 22.

[oldgeezershooter]

My favorite is my Grandads Model 64 .30WCF, deer hunter model.

[1895gunner]

Marlins!

450
45-70
444
35 Rem
44 mag

http://i1102.photobucket.com/albums/g441/1895gunner/1895M.jpg

http://i1102.photobucket.com/albums/g441/1895gunner/1895G.jpg

http://i1102.photobucket.com/albums/g441/1895gunner/444P.jpg

http://i1102.photobucket.com/albums/g441/1895gunner/336D-2.jpg

http://i1102.photobucket.com/albums/g441/1895gunner/100_1002-1.jpg


1895gunner

[SkookumJeff]

I love my Savage 99 which was my second lever gun...

and my Marlin 336 SS in .444 Marlin...

and my Marlin 336 SS in .45-70...

and my Marlin 336-44...

and my Marlin 45-70 ABL....

and did I mention my recently acquired Marlin 336SC in 35 Rem?

I'm pretty sure I like Marlin 336 rifles...;-)

My first lever gun was a Win 94 .30-30, sold it to buy a .30-06. I'm looking to get another Win 94 in .30-30, trying to find one made in 1958 so I can say it's the same age as me. That will complete my lever gun collection. For now.

[RidgerunnerAk]

I have Marlin 1895's and vintage Winchester '86's. I have to go with the Winchesters for the classic nature and feel, however, that being said....... if you get ahold of a vintage Marlin .45-70, not an 1895.... older with a long octagonal bbl... they are smoother than any Winchester '86 ever made. They're like butter; way smoother than any vintage Winchester. Can't count the old Marlins I passed up for $400+/- when no one wanted them.... gawd....

[Four Fingers of Death]

My most used leverrifles are my Uberti 1873 in 44/40, followed by my Rossi in 38/357. Hard to say what my fav is, for plinking, cowboy target work my 1873, for hunting my 444Marlin, but then again I haven't had a chance to shoot my 25/20 yet. I think if I had a 25/35, that might be my fav, fond of my oct Bbl 94 Classic in 30/30 as well.

I forgot to mention my others 92s, a 1927 32/20 and a 1910 44/40 and my 1960 30/30! Decisions, decisions, then there is my Marlin 30/30 and the 1894 in 44Mag :(

I suppose if I really had to chose just one, the Marlin 336 in 30/30 would get the nod, it will do everything from soupcans to heavy(ish) loads.

[Crawdaddy]

Marlin 1895m 450 Marlin
Marlin 336 30-30
Ruger 9644 44 magnum

[panodanno]

Three Winchester 94s for me...

[61henry]

Have a '94 Winchester (1949) 1893 Marlin (1902) and a Savage mod 1899 (1912), Love them all but voted Winchester because I have had it the longest.

[GrayFox]

My current favorite--I'm fickle and change favorites occasionally--is one of the first in our area Rossi 92 in .45 Colt with the 24" octagon barrel. I worked on the action a bit when I started shooting cowboy with it, and it got slick as snot after a couple thousand rounds. It's now a hunter with a Hi Viz front sight and one of the Taurus copies of the Marble tang sight rear sight. With a not quite max load of H110 and the Lee 300 grain flat point GC it shoots clover leafs at 25 yards and will bust clay birds at 100 if I do my part. While the crescent steel butt plate looked cool shooting cowboy, if you get it out of the pocket it will leave a mark with the hunting loads. I hope to take some hogs with it this fall and if I do I'll post some pics and any boolits I recover. Oh, BTW, I'm shooting WCWW sized to .452 and don't worry about expansion with that sharp edged wide flat nose boolit. I agree with comments that breaking a shoulder going in or out is the way to slow them down quicker. GF

[robertbank]

I took Four Fingers of Deaths suggestion and installed a recoil pad on my .44MAg Rossi. Grey Fox if yo go this route you will enjoy shooting your gun a lot more, especially with heavy hunting loads. MY .44mag gun is now a pleasure to shoot. Before...not so much. Best $75. I have spent on a long gun.

Take Care

Bob

[Moondawg]

I like my pre 64 Winchester 94 in 30-30. My favorite lever gun and primary deer rifle for the past 10 years is my born in 1949, Savage Model 99F in .250 Savage. Perfect balance, that beautiful rotary magazine and it shoots spitzer bullets.

[OnHoPr]

That would be like being on a island and voting for only one of the USA beauty pageant girls. Sure. The Winny's 92 38-40, 94 30-30, .348, .405, 88 .284, etc.. The Browning's BLR 30-06, 300win mag, 338win mag. The Marlin's 444original, 45-70, 35rem. The Savage's 99 303sav, 22hi power, 250sav, and in the .284win. Plus many more models and cals of the stated above.

[Tom-ADC]

Have three lever action a Henry H001 great fun gun to shoot & two Marlins 1894 in 44 Mag and 1895 SS in 45-70. Would still like one in 38-55.

[flint45]

no. 1 would be my winchester 86 in .45-70 next is marlin 95 in .45-70 number 3 is my savage 99 .30 wcf.:-?

[Four Fingers of Death]

That would be like being on a island and voting for only one of the USA beauty pageant girls. Sure. The Winny's 92 38-40, 94 30-30, .348, .405, 88 .284, etc.. The Browning's BLR 30-06, 300win mag, 338win mag. The Marlin's 444original, 45-70, 35rem. The Savage's 99 303sav, 22hi power, 250sav, and in the .284win. Plus many more models and cals of the stated above.

I'd forgotten about the powerful BLRs. Nowwwwwwwwwwwwww, a break down in 270 and another in 270W would do most of anything I need to do.

[6pt-sika]

I'd forgotten about the powerful BLRs. Nowwwwwwwwwwwwww, a break down in 270 and another in 270W would do most of anything I need to do.

There was a time when I wanted BLR's in 270 WSM and 325 WSM as I thought they would be a perfect two gun pair for me !

But after I handled a few , I changed my mind on that one :-?

[Four Fingers of Death]

I handled a take down 308Win recently, ended up passing on it. Nice rifle, probably would have handled 90% of my hunting needs. i suppose if I had of been cashed up I would have weakened, but at the time I wasn't particularly flush and also wanted to try a 270Win.

[6pt-sika]

I handled a take down 308Win recently, ended up passing on it. Nice rifle, probably would have handled 90% of my hunting needs. i suppose if I had of been cashed up I would have weakened, but at the time I wasn't particularly flush and also wanted to try a 270Win.

In my hands nothing feels as good to me as a nice BALANCED SxS shotgun (Parker or Engish Gun)of 16 or 28 gauge (chalk that up to many years of bird hunting , skeet and trap shooting )!
A Krieghoff K-32/80 or a Browning Superposed are close but not as good to me as a good SxS !

Now with that said for a lever action I actually like the feel of the old Marlin 444's with the straight grip and monte carlo stock . I also like the feel of the old Pre 1920 Marlin 1893's and some of the Winchester 1894's from the Pre 1920's .

The Browning BLR has never felt great in my hands . Servicable yes but not something as I like to say "that would grow on me" .

[Four Fingers of Death]

The Browning BLR has never felt great in my hands . Servicable yes but not something as I like to say "that would grow on me" .

The Browning lever rifle is a good gun, but a bit gawky. I have come close to buying one several times, but never quiet convinced myself. My mate had an earlier version in .223 with a 2-7X Leupold. Only rifle he owned and it put paid to a lot of game.

[mooko]

I have had a Marlin 1893 in 38-55
a Savage 99 Carbine in .308
a Winchester 1895 in 30 Govt.
a Winchester 1894 in 30-30
and a Winchester 1892 in 32 WCF.

Liked 'em all. Each had its own advantages and disadvantages, but now, I only have the Savage and the 1892. I've got to say that the 1892 is handy, easy to reload for, and I can carry 50 rounds in my jacket pocket if I want to.

I've got a problem with buying a gun that was made in a place where an ordinary guy could not own it. But I also have a problem with "mommy" states that limit the number of rounds in the magazine and such other stupid ideas. Can't see why anybody votes for donkey people aftre their handiwork of the past 50 years.

[Four Fingers of Death]

now, I only have the Savage and the 1892.

Between the 32WCF and the 308, you can pretty much get it all done!

[miestro_jerry]

I have added another Marlin 1895 and a 1894SS to my collection. I never sell any guns, I just keep adding to the collection.

Jerry

[Four Fingers of Death]

I have added another Marlin 1895 and a 1894SS to my collection. I never sell any guns, I just keep adding to the collection.

Jerry

Thats what I seem to end up doing, I plan to sell ones to pay for new stuff, but it hardly ever happens.

[Chill Wills]

:wink:Being that a new Winchester is hard to come by ;) I would guess that a new Marlin is not too hard to sell these days.
I have some older Winchesters that fill every nitch well and I realy like how they hold and feel.

I have some 1886 rifles that are the best but back in the day as an only rifle they are heavy and bulky until you need them. Then they are just right! I have packed them around hunting for days and days and they do get to be a chore to carry. The 1894 rifle when it came out must have realy been a great replacment for that reason alone. Unless you need the big bore cartridges that the '86 offers, the smaller frame rifles sure are great in the field.
I was after elk and liked the 45-70 for that.

[Four Fingers of Death]

:wink:Being that a new Winchester is hard to come by ;) I would guess that a new Marlin is not too hard to sell these days.
I have some older Winchesters that fill every nitch well and I realy like how they hold and feel.

I have some 1886 rifles that are the best but back in the day as an only rifle they are heavy and bulky until you need them. Then they are just right! I have packed them around hunting for days and days and they do get to be a chore to carry. The 1894 rifle when it came out must have realy been a great replacment for that reason alone. Unless you need the big bore cartridges that the '86 offers, the smaller frame rifles sure are great in the field.
I was after elk and liked the 45-70 for that.

If you were living in the wilds with the rifle in your hands all the time and only using it every couple days to hunt a feed, the 1886 would get old very quick. The 1894 in 32 or 30 cal would have seemed a godsend. The ammo which is up to the job for the bulk of the country was a lot lighter and probably cheaper to boot.

[Chill Wills]

Yup, I thought that is what I just said. We agree for sure.

I have two 1894 Win in 38-55. Not a fast round like the 30WCF but good anyway. A fun gun for the 200 meter silhouette game.

[Four Fingers of Death]

Yup, I thought that is what I just said. We agree for sure.

I have two 1894 Win in 38-55. Not a fast round like the 30WCF but good anyway. A fun gun for the 200 meter silhouette game.

I have a 94 Classic 30/30. That is the one with the 24 or 26" Ocangular barrel. It has seen a whole lot of work, I would love to bore it out to 38/55. With a nice set of tang sights, it would be a niceeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee long range cast boolit rifle!

[Chill Wills]

Winchester M-1886
Made in 1892
45-70 Govt. Barrel ladder sight & great bore

[Huck Berry]

I did vote Marlin as I have had one in different bbl lengths and calibers and they are great.... but my favorite lever rifle is a slicked ,short stroked, tuned Uberti 1873 short rifle in 357.

[Four Fingers of Death]

I did vote Marlin as I have had one in different bbl lengths and calibers and they are great.... but my favorite lever rifle is a slicked ,short stroked, tuned Uberti 1873 short rifle in 357.

I have a shortstroked Uberti in 44/40 which is as slick as frogsnot. The trouble is that it has spoilt me for other levers as I use it a lot more than the others and I tend to short stroke them and get fail to feeds, etc. Sure is fun to crank em' out with the 73 though!

[Idaho Sharpshooter]

I'm greedy; a pair of Marlins in 38-55 and 45-70 would complete my lever gun bucket list. Okay, okay, add one in 35 Remington.

Rich

[Four Fingers of Death]

I've never seen a 35 Remington lever gun in Australia. If I ever do come across one, I'll be on it like a drunk onto a curry!

[frnkeore]

I have one each, 303 Savage caliber, 1899 Savage, 30/30 in 1893 Marlin, 22rf Marlin 39 and a Puma '92 in 45 Colt.

Frank

[Beau Cassidy]

I am kinda partial to my 3 original Deluxe Model 71 .348's. Got my first elk with one using my cast bullets.

[Chakta]

I certainly always have liked those Winchesters in lever & bolt actions. I also have a sweet spot for those Marlin levers also. I wish I could afford an original Winchester in the 1876 & 1886 models but Mama would not let that fly a tall.
So It will have to be a Uberti & Pedersoli I suppose....still thinking though.[smilie=s:

[modoc]

I voted other because I could not vote for multiple. With that said, I like Winchester/Browning (design) rifles, Marlins (Newer) have not felt right in my hands. I have 2 Browning 92s in 357 and 44, a Rossi 92 in 357, Uberti '73 in 357, Win 1892 in 25-20, 32-20 and 38-40, 1894 in 30 WCF and 38-55, 1886 in 45 Govt and an 1887 in 12 Gauge ;)

It all depends on what I am doing and how the spirit moves me in the morning :D

Well, I had to up the ante on the herd. Since my last post, I added a <gasp> Marlin 39 (not 39A), a Savage 99 TD in 300 Savage and an original 1873 Winchester in 32 WCF (32-20). All are fun to shoot and seem to fill different niches. Also inherited my Great Grandfather's Win. 1894 in 32 Special, Now THAT is a cool carbine since it came with a copy of the photo album from the hunting camp back on the Sespe River in Southern California.:drinks:

[Linstrum]

- - - Also inherited my Great Grandfather's Win. 1894 in 32 Special, Now THAT is a cool carbine since it came with a copy of the photo album from the hunting camp back on the Sespe River in Southern California.:drinks:

That is the first time I have seen the Sespe River mentioned on this board in 6 years. The Sespe Wilderness Area/California Condor Refuge was my playground when I was in my teens-early twenties. The Sespe River is now the only un-dammed year-round river in California that runs to the Pacific Ocean. Steelhead fishing used to be great there but I don't know if it is legal now.

rl 2026

[OneBagNomad]

I stumbled upon a like new 1975 (pre-safety) Marlin 336 chambered in 30-30 in a pawn shop awhile back and practically got it for a song. I love that rifle. It's just a great no-nonsense brush gun with a vintage feel. Sadly it's no longer like new, but it's getting used for its intended purpose.

[Bullet Caster]

I've got only one levergun. A Winchester model 94AE chambered in Colt .45. Have only shot it twice. The first time I shot it I put one round through it and the link broke. I had traded my Ruger SS .45 colt convertible (.45 acp) 7 1/2" bbl. for it. All the rounds came out of the tube mag and spilled into the triger group. I tried to get it welded up (the little tit on the link that holds the cartridges in the magazine but found out it was made out of pot metal. Wouldn't weld. I had to order a new link from Winchester and since I've reinstalled it have only shot it once at an indoor range. Good little shooter but I wish I had my Ruger back. Since when did Winchester start making parts out of pot metal? I would like to have that part made out of steel so if it ever broke again, I could just weld it and file it down. Oh, did I say I wished I had my Ruger back? BC

[hicard]

Marlin 45-70's, 35 Rem's., 444, 44, 357 mag and 30-30's.

[Reload3006]

I know that Marlin because of their side eject is a lot more popular than Winchester. I also think that Marlin makes a first rate rifle. No question about it. But when I think of a lever action my mind always goes to the Good ole Winchester 94. It may be a safe queen but she still shines bright in my eyes. I even used her to harvest a nice Doe this year.
I own
Post 64 Winchester 94 30-30
Browning 92 44 mag
Rossi 92 44 Mag.
The rossi is a sweet rifle but it aint a browning or a winchester for that matter a marlin.

[Texnmidwest]

I voted Marlin....but that is with the Winchester almost tied! I have a desire to try out the others. Especially the Henry.

[Gunnut 45/454]

Well I'm pretty much split I have two Win 94's and two Marlins a 336W, '94 CBL and one Rossi 92 454 Casull. Love them all but I have to say I'm partial to the Win '94's as they just carry so well. :)

[BOOM BOOM]

HI,
Hey Fenring WHO IS THAT BEAUTIFUL WOMAN?

I went Marlin as I have owned 2, which are sadly departed do to financial crisis.
a 22 mag. totally sweet & accurate, & a 444 with which I shot my tightest cast boolit group .

[malevolentfrog]

I own a Marlin 1895 .45/70 and two Winchester 94's in 30/30. I prefer the Marlin just because I like the action better. I love the 45/70 cartridge for black bear! I've taken two in Maine and both dropped where they stood.:smile::D

[Boerrancher]

Now I am talking largely pistol cartridge Lever guns here, and I have owned both Marlins and Winchesters and the clones. I find the original winchester designs just seem to point and handle a bit better than the Marlin. I don't know if is the difference in the drop of the stock or what. I can hold my winnies rock steady when acquiring a sight picture and my Marlins wonder all over the place. I can't hold them steady has anyone else noticed this?

Best wishes,

Joe

[Lefthandshooter]

I have 3 Marlins - 39A and 2 1894's (.44mag and .357mag).

Had a Winny 94AE .44 mag, but sold it to buy the 44 mag Marlin. [smilie=w:

[birddog21]

I have a few big lever 45/70 , 44 mag marlins , 22lr and 22mag in Henry but my favorite is my win 94 450 marlin sweet as can be and pounds lighter than marlin

[chopperjd]

picked up my 1976 444 marlin from a good friend that wasn't selling it. but loved the idea of me owning it (knowing i never sell my guns) It's as nice as new and shoots like a dream. JD

[dauntlessdave]

I sure do like my Marlin 1894 FG in 41 magnum. It goes well with my Ruger 41 mag revolver. I also have an 1894 in .357 with an accompanying revolver. I not long ago sold my Winchester 9410. As much as I liked it I never got quite used to the action of feeding the .410 shell.......just never felt right.

[Lefthandshooter]

I'd love to have a S&W 41 mag revolver and rifle to match, but I'd rather have a Dan Wesson Elite 1911 10mm first.

Doubt I ever get any of them though.

[shovel80]

I Only have One, Its a Winchester '94 in .32 Special made in '21!

Terry:coffee:

[morgans]

Winchester Fan Here , Oh and New Guy to this board, My pee-shooter Model 53 25-20 I just like it, and a model 1873 44cal, I'm restoring ( can not wait to shoot it.):2gunsfiring_v1:

[nwellons]

Winchester M1895
1916 7.62x54R.

Made in USA, shipped to Russia for WWI and shipped to Spain for the Spanish Civil War. Then back to the USA.

[Kansascoyote]

Winchester 94 30/30 1960 circa I have killed deer with it for 20+ years wouldnt trade it for any gun on the market .

[WinMike]

I'm an equal opportunity lever guy: Browning BL22, Marlin 45-70 Guide gun, Win Mdl 94 & 71, Uberti '73 (.357 Mag), Savage 99 (300). Do Low Walls count?

[6pt-sika]

And still Marlin has OVER 50% of the total vote talley !

And Wichester barely equals the vote talley of "all the others shall we say" .

The people have spoken [smilie=l: [smilie=p: [smilie=s:

[dagger dog]

Looks like Rossi is gaining on Savage. I would like to own a Marlin 1894 Cowboy in a pistol caliber, or the 1895 Cowboy 45-70, but you can't find either new or used for a reasonable price.

I saw one 1894 pre Remlin Cowboy .357 24" rifle used, offered for ONLY $1025.00 !!!!!

[Lefthandshooter]

I saw one 1894 pre Remlin Cowboy .357 24" rifle used, offered for ONLY $1025.00 !!!!!

I have a Marlin 1894 in 357 mag - only fired once - I'd sell for $1000, but it has an 18" barrel (I think).

[CalFred]

Daggerdog - what is a reasonable price?

[hightime]

If I could it would be Volcanic.....Er maybe Evans. Nope Spencer. Yeah Spencer.

Owen

[dagger dog]

I figure 750 $ for a USED 45 cal 20" 1894c maybe an extra 50 $ for the Cowboy, 800-900 for the 1895.

[Cmasailor]

the old savages were fine rifles. but my marlin gets the most use and my winny second...

[starmac]

Looks like Rossi is gaining on Savage. I would like to own a Marlin 1894 Cowboy in a pistol caliber, or the 1895 Cowboy 45-70, but you can't find either new or used for a reasonable price.

I saw one 1894 pre Remlin Cowboy .357 24" rifle used, offered for ONLY $1025.00 !!!!!

Wallmart isn't my favorite store, but the last time I was in it (about a month ago) the 45/70 cowboys were still priced at 707 dollars.

[sharps4590]

I'm a Winchester guy....but it has to be pre-war and the two I have are pre-WW1. A '92 in 32-20 and an '86 in 40-82. I have a Savage Mod. 1899 in 303 Savage, 1919 vintage, and it's a sweetie too. I'd take any Marlin also as long as it was pre-1920.

[powerglide]

I have a Win 94 32 special that is a varmint shootin little devil.Never missed a hunting shot with that gun.Deer? Probably over 75. 1956 Model 94

[wildchild2010]

Winchester M1895
1916 7.62x54R.

Made in USA, shipped to Russia for WWI and shipped to Spain for the Spanish Civil War. Then back to the USA.

Now that is a nice gun. Never seen anything like that.

[wildchild2010]

Marlin 45-70 seems to work just fine for hunting.

[rhouser]

I have 9 JM Marlin Levers: 1 ea Marlin 1895 GG, 2 ea Marlin 38-55's (one 1893 and one 336 cowboy), 1 ea Marlin 338 ME, 2 ea Marlin 30-30's (one Octagon and one 336 carbine), 1 ea Marlin 1894 Cowboy 24", 1 ea Marlin 1894 .44 mag Cowboy 32 HRM 24", 1 ea Marlin 39A in 22 LR.

I think I like JM MARLINS the BEST.

[hightime]

Marlin 45-70 Cowboy is my current fav. for deer hunting but, I might be leaning towards a 45 Colt in a 1873 Uberti lately. It 's the best looking. My dad's model 99 300 Sav. is awsome and maybe has shot the most deer. For my neck of the woods a 30-30 rules and in that case , Winchesters are the ones to carry.

No clear answer.

Owen

[OverMax]

Savage model 99 E-pre in 300 savage. Not scoped. I'm old school and prefer open sights. Just an old rifle that's never failed to get the job done on deer size game. Have Winchester & Marlin levers. But the old 300 is still my favorite of all the lever rifles I own.

Hey Hightime. The 30-30 may rule down there by the Lake. But the 300 still is and always will be the Champ up on the Range.

[Lead Fred]

Mine Marlin 45/70 GG
Hers Winnie 30 WCF 1951

Dont have silly blue things on any of mine. Aint no good if you cant use them, when you need them.

[ilcop22]

Rossi M92 cause that's what I got.

[Jim]

I voted Marlin 'cause that is my favorite. I sure do like my new '94 in .375, though!

[hightime]

Trying to be classy OverMax? You know it's ''Da Range''.

As a kid off the dary farm in Aitkin Co , it was the tirdy tirdy. I can see if on top of a mine dump, you might need a little more gun.

Owen

[OverMax]

I can see if on top of a mine dump, you might need a little more gun. No I don't think so. Maybe at times a little extra Kentucky windage may be require while perched up top on one of those Iron Ore dumps. But for the most part the 300 is more than adequate for its intended purpose.


Trying to be classy OverMax? You know it's ''Da Range''. Not trying to classy at all. I consider anyone from the Mesabi Range area >Rangers<

[michiganvet]

Read an article the other day about Marlin specs for 45-70 being .4588 grove dia as the cause of poor accuracy in microgroove for high vel loads. .459 sizing die in the works very soon.

[deerstalkert]

which lever gun? i voted savage 99 out of loyalty but reall my favorite is the one thats in my hand at any one moment in time to make a memory. and brother will a lever gun make memories. i cherish my winnie 94 375 and adore my rossi 454 casull. my 1873 in 32wcf makes me giggle like a kid when i shoot it with 4g's of unique. my marlin 95 in 45-70 is my go to elk gun ( 3 notches if i where to notch((shudder)). my 9410 gets the grouse for thanksgiving and i just drool over th commemrative 1894-1994 grade 1 my wife presented me on our 40th. guess i'll keep her( the 94 and my wife lol) I guess i just have a love affair with levers and have for 55 years or so.

[Don in Texas]

I voted Uberti because I truly love my Spaghetti '73. I bought it about 10 years ago and have fed it mostly Black Hills factory cowboy loads (45 Colt) and that thing is just dead on accurate. I'm also really fond of my Henry Golden Boy too.

[Huntsman]

Winchester gets my vote!

3x '94, 1x 88. My latest purchase was a Winchester '92 copy- Chiappa 92 in .45LC

[MasS&W]

Marlin in .35 remington. Hits hard, packs light, takes the same boolits as my .38 and .357. Life is good.

[torpedoman]

my lever action 30-30 is a old mossberg and the trigger moves with the lever.
do lever actuated martinis count?

[Buck348]

had to decide between my Marlins and Savages or Winchesters but had to go with the Savages just by sheer # that i have

[pkie44]

Can't decide, three marlins levers .22, two 94's .44, .45. Three Winchesters pre '64 30-30, 94ae .375, and 94ae 444 timber carbine