Lever question. Stressed out

OwenC said:

Screw it. I'm getting both. 1873 357 for fun and 1894 44 to kill stuff

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That's really the only reasonable thing to do.

If you only get one, you'll still always want the other. If lever guns trip your trigger I say go for it!

Owen C, I don't blame you if you don't want a Rossi. I bought one NIB maybe 3 or 4 years ago in 357/38. Yes,
it's cheaper to shoot relative to 45/70, 30-30 etc., but the gun quality is just not there and it's very particular about ammo it's fed. Anyway, I don't hunt, but concur with the others who recommend Marlin 336s in 30-30 calber. They can be had used for $300-400 and generally have a good reputation.

I just use my lever at the local range...still fun to shoot. I like the Henry Big Boy steel versions and hope to get one
at some point in 357/38. The tube feed doesn't bother me. I'm used to it from my Marlin 60. Good luck with whatever you decide!

This thread is really making me want a marlin in 44 mag. I was always holding out for a 357 but it's barely any difference in cost to reload 44 so why not.

someguy2800 said:

This thread is really making me want a marlin in 44 mag. I was always holding out for a 357 but it's barely any difference in cost to reload 44 so why not.

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My JM Marlin 44 mag is an absolute blast (pun intended) to shoot. And 10+1 of 44 mag is no slouch in terms of firepower.

someguy2800 said:

This thread is really making me want a marlin in 44 mag. I was always holding out for a 357 but it's barely any difference in cost to reload 44 so why not.

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Well hurry up and order before the end of the 75.00 rebate that is in effect...

I've been holding out for a .357 too, but they are scarce. Now that I've got dies for a new .44 Bulldog revolver I'm also thinking that the extra cost for reloading the .44 mag is not that great. I've got a .45-70 Guide Gun and it's a keeper, but I've been craving another lever for years and the fact is that a .44 mag or .45 Colt lever might actually be a better all-around carbine than the .357 I've had my heart set on (but haven't been able to find/afford). Plus, with a bigger bore in the same size barrel, the weight for the .44 is even less. On second thought, what's not to like?

Oh yeah, reloading is a must if economy is an issue and you like to shoot. Choose your own optimal cost/benefit solution, for me it was a Lee "classic" turret press and wet tumbling.

OwenC said:

This is my first post. I finishing a job soon and will have some extra cash. I'm going to pick up a couple of lever rifles but can't figure out what to get. I know I want a 45-70 1895 so that part is easy. Great for ohio hunting but expensive to shoot and hard on the shoulder. I also want a 357/38 for leisure/ smaller game. used marlin 1894 for $1000? 1873 $1000 ( miroku or uberti)? henry $700 but I don't like them? 1892? Don't want a Rossi. Help... I'm going nuts

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Try a Marlin 444 less kick just as much killing power