Which 45-70 lever action?

guitarguy314 · November 11, 2012, 11:46 PM

Hey guys!

I am looking to buy a 45/70 lever action rifle, but I don't know what to get. I have heard used Marlin's are my best bet, but are there any others?

As a first time rifle buyer, is there anything I should know/look for?

Note: I have shot a 45/70 before, and my dad has a few .22's, so I have a little experience with rifles, just not a ton.

Thanks guys,

Lucas

MachIVshooter · November 12, 2012, 12:01 AM

There are others, but the Marlin is the gold standard. They are the toughest lever action you'll find South of 4 figures.

guitarguy314 · November 12, 2012, 12:17 AM

How old of a marlin should I look for? I heard that newer ones have quality control issues.

CraigC · November 12, 2012, 12:21 AM

The 1886 is the strongest, smoothest and most refined levergun available. They are also commonly found under four figures for used guns. Look for Brownings and late model Winchesters. I passed on a really nice used Browning last year for $750. Marlins are good guns as well.

grubbylabs · November 12, 2012, 01:10 AM

No amount of internet hype will replace hands on inspections. I fondled several Marlins before I found one I was happy with. You should cycle the action a few times and in general get a feel for the gun and its fit and finish before you buy. I found that quite a few of the guns I inspected were very stiff. Its hard when you are getting a new style of gun you are not familiar with, but with a little research and effort you should find something worth buying. I personally am very happy with my Marlin. However with any thing, there would not be this much hype if there were not some truth in there somewhere.

clocker · November 12, 2012, 01:50 AM

I fell in love with a Marlin 1895SBL and had to take it home as my first lever. If you want to go a little older style, Marlin had a 45-70 in their guide gun which was also very nice.

If you are into reloading, you'll notice three different loads
1. 1873 Springfield Trapdoor - lightest
2. 1886 Winchester and 1895 Marlin - pretty stout
3. Ruger no. 1 and no. 3 - Big thumper

Make sure that you work the action and also check the brand forums for additional information. Buying new is probably your best bet for a first rifle, but you'll probably find the best deals and the best quality on the used market. In general people don't put a lot of rounds through 45-70 rifles

Oh and pick up a box of Hornady Leverevolution if you want to have some fun

guitarguy314 · November 13, 2012, 09:18 PM

I have been looking at the Marlin 1895 cowboy model. Is this a good gun? How much should I pay for it? I saw one on GB for 700 (at least that was the bid).

I did notice however, that it was a side eject.

Anyone know who makes a lever action 45-70 that top ejects?

StrawHat · November 14, 2012, 01:18 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by guitarguy314

I have been looking at the Marlin 1895 cowboy model. Is this a good gun? How much should I pay for it? I saw one on GB for 700 (at least that was the bid).

I did notice however, that it was a side eject.

Anyone know who makes a lever action 45-70 that top ejects?

The Winchester 1886 and copies of it, eject out the top of the action.

grubbylabs · November 14, 2012, 02:15 PM

The cowboy is a good gun it is a side ejection, most people prefer it over a top ejection. In my area 800 bucks will buy you one if you can find one, and they are hard to find.

critter · November 14, 2012, 02:33 PM

Awesome game getter is that 45-70. Mine is a Ruger #1 though.

joecil · November 14, 2012, 03:20 PM

I recently picked up a Rossi Rio Grande in 45-70. Excellent fit and finish on the exterior and nearly perfect on the inside with no machining marks and one minor burr that took a pass with some metal polish to remove. Only other problem was very hard loading door but also easily fixed. Nothing else required to do on mine and bought new in the box at Bud's for $437 + 6% sales tax out the door. Added a Bushnell Banner 1.5 - 4.5 x 32mm scope..

Rexster · November 14, 2012, 10:15 PM

I love my Ruger No. 1 .45-70, but then, the OP probably wants a lever-action repeater. If a single-shot is OK, the Ruger No. 1 is pure elegance, with a stock design that mitigates recoil well. (Beware the similar-looking No. 3; I read/hear its stock can result in brutal recoil.)

jgiehl · November 15, 2012, 02:33 AM

I have a Marlin and love it. But Henry now makes a .45-70 and that little guy has piqued my interest.

T.R. · November 15, 2012, 08:23 AM

Rossi Rio Grande is a keeper!

TR

CraigC · November 15, 2012, 10:11 AM

That Henry .45/70 is even uglier than their other ugly rifles. Who is in charge of designing that stuff???

musicman10_1 · November 15, 2012, 11:05 AM

I have only seen the Henry .45-70 in their catalog (looked a little rough). I have tried to find it on the shelf of my local Henry dealers and at gunshows but it does not seem to exist in my world.

I have a Marlin with a JM stamp on the barrel and I like it a lot. I do like the SBL version of the Guide Gun and would not hesitate to buy one if I could get my hands on it for an inspection to insure that none of the reported problems with new factory assembly were present.

Hit_Factor · November 15, 2012, 11:24 AM

Marlin would probably fix any assembly problems for free, even if you are not original owner. Maybe give them a call and ask, this could could you more options.

I have a 1895 Guide gun for hunting, being a Marlin I can reload them hotter. But not as hot as the gentleman with the Ruger #1 who posted earlier.

Sent by someone using something.

Cocked & Locked · November 15, 2012, 12:15 PM

Marlin Guide Gun is a great choice...at least I think so.

This is one the earlier ones that has the factory ported barrel. Some folks say the noise from the ports make it unpleasant to shoot as compared to the non-ported later ones. I've not found that to be an issue.

I've never heard the BANG when shooting at a deer. For fun shooting I use muffs anyway.

cpt-t · November 15, 2012, 12:56 PM

guitarguy314: My Son and I have 3 Markin 1895 CW`s between us, and have had them for quite a while. Bought all three of them used but they were in like new shape. We don`t buy a lot of new guns. They are our Cowboy Action big bore lever guns all have the 26in barrels on them. But I use mine to pig hunt with when I think the shots will be 150 yds or less. We have several Marlin Lever Guns from the 22lr 39-A`s to a 450 Marlin Guide Gun. We have never had a problem with any of our Mariin`s. We thank the old Marlins are the best choice for us. Always on the look out for a nice used one, and we are going to look at one this weekend. The 3 1895`s I spoke of are all in 45/70 we reload for this caliber and you can load it light for comfort or you can load it where I find it is getting uncomfortable to shoot very many time in a row. But with the 45/70 you can hunt any thing on four legs with the right loads, and the Marlin will shoot any factory load I have tried. And normaly if I shoot something with my 45/70 Marlin the animal with be DRT or with in a few yards of where I shot it. If I were you I would look for an old model Marlin that says JM on the left side of the barrel just in front of the the reciver. If I could help you in any way, it would be my pleasure.
ken

guitarguy314 · November 15, 2012, 11:39 PM

Thanks for all of the replies guys!

I know I want a 45-70 lever action. But I keep looking, and it's hard to choose.

I'd like to stick with a well known company like Marlin, Winchester, or Browning. No offense to rossi, but I'm not really counting them as an option.

The guide gun seems weird to me. I think just because the magazine tube stops before the barrel does. I would prefer a rifle that has a capacity of at least 6 (the 1895CB boasts 9...that's a lot). I also really like checkering on the guide gun. So, I'm conflicted. Shorter does mean easier to shoot... But I hate how obtrusive the butt pad looks. I'm sure it helps a lot with recoil, but I really wanted something with a minimal or no pad.

All blathering aside...

CPT-T Thanks so much! I will definitely pm you soon.

snakeman · November 15, 2012, 11:42 PM

Marlin for sure bud. I prefer the plain 1895 but most favor the guide gun.

CraigC · November 15, 2012, 11:49 PM

I love how the Cowboy feels and balances but I really think the standard 1895SS is the best configuration Marlin offers in the chambering.

grubbylabs · November 16, 2012, 08:41 AM

I bought a regular 1895 and had a mag tube extension put on it. For less than 150 my smith was able to buy the tube from brownels and do all the smith work. it now holds close to 10 if I remember correctly. I might be able to post some pics today if you want.

eastbank · November 16, 2012, 09:06 AM

my first year marlin 1895 made in 1973 with ther serial number B001920, and its a deer killer.and my 1973 marlin 94 in .44mag sporter, they look alot alike with only the lenth of the action and calibures being different. eastbank.

Frosty Z06 · November 18, 2012, 04:49 AM

I've got the cowboy with the Octagon Barrel. I believe it's a 9 shot. That is the primary reason I got it, well that and the VERY long barrel. Glad I didn't get the guide gun. Love the look and the barrel length!

November 12, 2012, 12:01 AM	#2
MachIVshooter Member Join Date: August 11, 2005 Location: Elbert County, CO Posts: 10,533	There are others, but the Marlin is the gold standard. They are the toughest lever action you'll find South of 4 figures. __________________ "Life is harder when you're stupid. Sometimes, it's also quite a bit shorter."-1911Tuner

November 12, 2012, 12:21 AM	#4
CraigC Member Join Date: January 27, 2006 Location: West Tennessee Posts: 9,093	The 1886 is the strongest, smoothest and most refined levergun available. They are also commonly found under four figures for used guns. Look for Brownings and late model Winchesters. I passed on a really nice used Browning last year for $750. Marlins are good guns as well. __________________ "Wise men learn by others’ harms; fools by their own." - Benjamin Franklin

November 14, 2012, 02:33 PM	#10
critter Member Join Date: December 24, 2002 Location: southeast AR Posts: 2,736	Awesome game getter is that 45-70. Mine is a Ruger #1 though. __________________ <--------------------------------> 1911

November 14, 2012, 03:20 PM	#11
joecil Member Join Date: April 12, 2012 Location: Lexington, Kentucky Posts: 711	I recently picked up a Rossi Rio Grande in 45-70. Excellent fit and finish on the exterior and nearly perfect on the inside with no machining marks and one minor burr that took a pass with some metal polish to remove. Only other problem was very hard loading door but also easily fixed. Nothing else required to do on mine and bought new in the box at Bud's for $437 + 6% sales tax out the door. Added a Bushnell Banner 1.5 - 4.5 x 32mm scope.. __________________ Joe

November 14, 2012, 10:15 PM	#12
Rexster Member Join Date: March 25, 2007 Location: SE Texas Posts: 2,790	I love my Ruger No. 1 .45-70, but then, the OP probably wants a lever-action repeater. If a single-shot is OK, the Ruger No. 1 is pure elegance, with a stock design that mitigates recoil well. (Beware the similar-looking No. 3; I read/hear its stock can result in brutal recoil.) __________________ Have Colts, will travel.

November 11, 2012, 11:46 PM	#1
guitarguy314 Member Join Date: December 13, 2011 Posts: 203	Which 45-70 lever action? Hey guys! I am looking to buy a 45/70 lever action rifle, but I don't know what to get. I have heard used Marlin's are my best bet, but are there any others? As a first time rifle buyer, is there anything I should know/look for? Note: I have shot a 45/70 before, and my dad has a few .22's, so I have a little experience with rifles, just not a ton. Thanks guys, Lucas

November 12, 2012, 12:17 AM	#3
guitarguy314 Member Join Date: December 13, 2011 Posts: 203	How old of a marlin should I look for? I heard that newer ones have quality control issues.

November 12, 2012, 01:10 AM	#5
grubbylabs Member Join Date: February 12, 2010 Location: Hansen Idaho Posts: 1,064	No amount of internet hype will replace hands on inspections. I fondled several Marlins before I found one I was happy with. You should cycle the action a few times and in general get a feel for the gun and its fit and finish before you buy. I found that quite a few of the guns I inspected were very stiff. Its hard when you are getting a new style of gun you are not familiar with, but with a little research and effort you should find something worth buying. I personally am very happy with my Marlin. However with any thing, there would not be this much hype if there were not some truth in there somewhere.

November 12, 2012, 01:50 AM	#6
clocker Member Join Date: January 7, 2012 Posts: 55	I fell in love with a Marlin 1895SBL and had to take it home as my first lever. If you want to go a little older style, Marlin had a 45-70 in their guide gun which was also very nice. If you are into reloading, you'll notice three different loads 1. 1873 Springfield Trapdoor - lightest 2. 1886 Winchester and 1895 Marlin - pretty stout 3. Ruger no. 1 and no. 3 - Big thumper Make sure that you work the action and also check the brand forums for additional information. Buying new is probably your best bet for a first rifle, but you'll probably find the best deals and the best quality on the used market. In general people don't put a lot of rounds through 45-70 rifles Oh and pick up a box of Hornady Leverevolution if you want to have some fun

November 13, 2012, 09:18 PM	#7
guitarguy314 Member Join Date: December 13, 2011 Posts: 203	I have been looking at the Marlin 1895 cowboy model. Is this a good gun? How much should I pay for it? I saw one on GB for 700 (at least that was the bid). I did notice however, that it was a side eject. Anyone know who makes a lever action 45-70 that top ejects?

November 14, 2012, 02:15 PM	#9
grubbylabs Member Join Date: February 12, 2010 Location: Hansen Idaho Posts: 1,064	The cowboy is a good gun it is a side ejection, most people prefer it over a top ejection. In my area 800 bucks will buy you one if you can find one, and they are hard to find.

November 15, 2012, 02:33 AM	#13
jgiehl Member Join Date: October 25, 2010 Location: fairbanks, alaska Posts: 194	I have a Marlin and love it. But Henry now makes a .45-70 and that little guy has piqued my interest.

November 15, 2012, 08:23 AM	#14
T.R. Member Join Date: January 23, 2006 Location: Lancaster County, Pennsylvania Posts: 1,193	Rossi Rio Grande is a keeper! TR __________________ Fire up the grill! Hunting IS NOT catch and release!

November 15, 2012, 10:11 AM	#15
CraigC Member Join Date: January 27, 2006 Location: West Tennessee Posts: 9,093	That Henry .45/70 is even uglier than their other ugly rifles. Who is in charge of designing that stuff??? __________________ "Wise men learn by others’ harms; fools by their own." - Benjamin Franklin

November 15, 2012, 11:05 AM	#16
musicman10_1 Member Join Date: March 27, 2012 Location: Chandler, Arizona Posts: 181	I have only seen the Henry .45-70 in their catalog (looked a little rough). I have tried to find it on the shelf of my local Henry dealers and at gunshows but it does not seem to exist in my world. I have a Marlin with a JM stamp on the barrel and I like it a lot. I do like the SBL version of the Guide Gun and would not hesitate to buy one if I could get my hands on it for an inspection to insure that none of the reported problems with new factory assembly were present.

November 15, 2012, 11:24 AM	#17
Hit_Factor Member Join Date: November 20, 2011 Location: St. Joseph, MI Posts: 302	Marlin would probably fix any assembly problems for free, even if you are not original owner. Maybe give them a call and ask, this could could you more options. I have a 1895 Guide gun for hunting, being a Marlin I can reload them hotter. But not as hot as the gentleman with the Ruger #1 who posted earlier. Sent by someone using something.

November 15, 2012, 12:15 PM	#18
Cocked & Locked Member Join Date: January 21, 2006 Location: Goat Hill NC Posts: 1,783	Marlin Guide Gun is a great choice...at least I think so. This is one the earlier ones that has the factory ported barrel. Some folks say the noise from the ports make it unpleasant to shoot as compared to the non-ported later ones. I've not found that to be an issue. I've never heard the BANG when shooting at a deer. For fun shooting I use muffs anyway. __________________ C&L

November 15, 2012, 12:56 PM	#19
cpt-t Member Join Date: December 25, 2011 Posts: 209	guitarguy314: My Son and I have 3 Markin 1895 CW`s between us, and have had them for quite a while. Bought all three of them used but they were in like new shape. We don`t buy a lot of new guns. They are our Cowboy Action big bore lever guns all have the 26in barrels on them. But I use mine to pig hunt with when I think the shots will be 150 yds or less. We have several Marlin Lever Guns from the 22lr 39-A`s to a 450 Marlin Guide Gun. We have never had a problem with any of our Mariin`s. We thank the old Marlins are the best choice for us. Always on the look out for a nice used one, and we are going to look at one this weekend. The 3 1895`s I spoke of are all in 45/70 we reload for this caliber and you can load it light for comfort or you can load it where I find it is getting uncomfortable to shoot very many time in a row. But with the 45/70 you can hunt any thing on four legs with the right loads, and the Marlin will shoot any factory load I have tried. And normaly if I shoot something with my 45/70 Marlin the animal with be DRT or with in a few yards of where I shot it. If I were you I would look for an old model Marlin that says JM on the left side of the barrel just in front of the the reciver. If I could help you in any way, it would be my pleasure. ken

November 15, 2012, 11:39 PM	#20
guitarguy314 Member Join Date: December 13, 2011 Posts: 203	Thanks for all of the replies guys! I know I want a 45-70 lever action. But I keep looking, and it's hard to choose. I'd like to stick with a well known company like Marlin, Winchester, or Browning. No offense to rossi, but I'm not really counting them as an option. The guide gun seems weird to me. I think just because the magazine tube stops before the barrel does. I would prefer a rifle that has a capacity of at least 6 (the 1895CB boasts 9...that's a lot). I also really like checkering on the guide gun. So, I'm conflicted. Shorter does mean easier to shoot... But I hate how obtrusive the butt pad looks. I'm sure it helps a lot with recoil, but I really wanted something with a minimal or no pad. All blathering aside... CPT-T Thanks so much! I will definitely pm you soon.

November 15, 2012, 11:42 PM	#21
snakeman Member Join Date: May 20, 2008 Location: texas Posts: 1,987	Marlin for sure bud. I prefer the plain 1895 but most favor the guide gun. __________________ Freedom is given to those willing to fight to obtain it.

November 15, 2012, 11:49 PM	#22
CraigC Member Join Date: January 27, 2006 Location: West Tennessee Posts: 9,093	I love how the Cowboy feels and balances but I really think the standard 1895SS is the best configuration Marlin offers in the chambering. __________________ "Wise men learn by others’ harms; fools by their own." - Benjamin Franklin

November 16, 2012, 08:41 AM	#23
grubbylabs Member Join Date: February 12, 2010 Location: Hansen Idaho Posts: 1,064	I bought a regular 1895 and had a mag tube extension put on it. For less than 150 my smith was able to buy the tube from brownels and do all the smith work. it now holds close to 10 if I remember correctly. I might be able to post some pics today if you want.

November 18, 2012, 04:49 AM	#25
Frosty Z06 Member Join Date: October 3, 2012 Posts: 9	I've got the cowboy with the Octagon Barrel. I believe it's a 9 shot. That is the primary reason I got it, well that and the VERY long barrel. Glad I didn't get the guide gun. Love the look and the barrel length!