You fellas may see this same post over at the Marlin forum. I posted it there for my Marlin loving brothers.
I thought that my lead slinging, lever loving neighbors here might enjoy it too.
I have been meaning to post some range results from my new 2018 1894C. I have had it to the range several times and now have right at 1000 rounds through it. It gets smoother every day. The following is by no means a thorough test and I will explain but first some background.
When I first got it I spent two days breaking in the barrel. 50 rounds of jacketed with a cleaning every 10 shots. Then 300 rounds of cast lead bullets, also with cleaning at regular intervals. The bore is smooth with excellent rifling.
I also replaced the front sight with a much shorter one. This rifle shot VERY low when new.
At the range I typically don't shoot paper targets. The outdoor range that I go to has no rangemaster and can get busy at times. Once your targets are set up it may be a while before you get a clear to go down range. So I normally set steel swingers at 50 yards, 75 yards and 100 yards. Based on a comparison with the past performance of my JM 1894CS I knew that the new rifle was just as accurate.
On my last trip a few days ago I was setting up my swingers when luck stepped in. At the 75 yard line a gentleman was removing his paper targets. I asked him if he could please leave one up for me. He was happy to oblige. I covered his holes with blue masking tape.
Back at the line I fired 3 rounds at the paper target. The photo is of my results. I am very happy to say the least. I still use the stock iron sights, not a Skinner peep like my other 1894CS. I drink too much coffee and have the shakes. I didn't use a rifle rest, just shooting from a sitting position with my elbows on the table.
The load was a Lee 385-158-RF, cast from wheel weight lead, sized to .358", tumble lubed with a light coat of Alox and loaded over 12.5 gr of 2400.
This has inspired me to do more with paper targets. I have built a small, portable target frame that breaks down for travel. I will hopefully have some time after fire season to do a thorough range test of various loads and bullet weights.
My new 1894C is a keeper.
Steve in N CA