Considering a .357 levergun

[Deleted member 66305]

What recommendations do you have, and why?

 

[Glockman17366]

Do a search and you'll see a number of threads. Seems like most guys like the Marlin 1894.
I have one...nice rifle but a bit finicky when chambering .38's. Definitely a fun plinker!

Here's one thread http://www.thehighroad.org/showthread.php?t=407903

 

[7.62X25mm]

Marlin 1894, because it's a classic design, long standing mfg. Also, the top of the receiver is solid and allows scope mounting. The bolt removes from the breech to allow cleaning rod access.

But you really want it in 44 magnum.

 

[Seafarer12]

Why would you want to mount a scope on a 357 levergun.

 

[jackdanson]

Why would you want to mount a scope on a 357 levergun.

How bout a red dot? New meets old!

 

[ChristopherG]

I tried a red-dot, a scope, and a scout scope on my Marlin; went back to sights. Best investment is, IMO, a receiver-mounted peep sight. If you really wanna go high-tech, get a Williams fire-sight fiber optic bead for the front (but stick with an aperature in the rear). The 1894 is a great, fun, handy little gun--but it's diminished, I think, by optics.

 

[BHP FAN]

I've got two Rossi's and a Winchester,and if I was doin' it all again,I'd get the straight stock [not pistol grip] classic Marlin in .357.

 

[stormspotter]

I like the strength of the 92's and the slick handling of my Browning B92.

 

[Marbles]

I would not get a top ejector.

Work the lever "normally" and it throws brass in your face.

With hot .357Mag loads, it's a bit brisk but nothing that can't be handled. Light .357Mag loads are easy, and .38Spls are cake. Probably about the same as 9mm in a carbine.

44mag is a lot more push and bark. Try before you buy a .44mag.

 

[Twig]

Here is my Win 94 .357
The scope worked great for my daughters first deer. Fun gun and have never had a problem with it.

 

[zxcvbob]

I have a Marlin 1894C; it's my "urban defense rifle." Mine feeds .38 Specials better than .357's (that may be unusual) so I load hot .38-44's for it. I get one extra round in the magazine that way.

I put a Leupold rimfire scope on it, but that may have been a mistake -- I'm thinking of going back to the iron sights.

 

[Janos Dracwlya]

I have a stainless Rossi Model 92 that I used to use for Cowboy Action Shooting. Great gun. Accurate and reliable with the right ammunition, which is anything but wadcutters or semi wad cutters (though semi-wad cutters by Zero work great). I've rarely ever used it with anything but .38 special. It was my go-to gun for home defense for a while and I still trust it completely.

I never had any trouble with brass hitting me in the face, by the way.

 

[GeezerwithGuns]

I had always wanted another lever gun and recently picked up a Navy Arms 1892 in .38/.357. It is built by Rossi, but the wood (nice walnut), fit and finish on it seem to be done to a higher standard. I've also been really pleased with the way it shoots. It has had no trouble feeding any ammo from .38 cal "puff balls" on up to full boat .357 mags. Accuracy is pretty good too. I plan to add a tang peep sight to it to complete a "period look." Actually, the original poster can't go wrong with any of the suggestions offered above.

Everyone needs a lever gun!

 

[Bat22]

Anyone try the Puma M-92s?

 

[Highland Ranger]

(nice shot by the daughter Twig!)

 

[H2O MAN]

.357 Mag Winchester & Ruger

 

[foghornl]

H20Man:

Good lookin' shooting irons....Although you really should pair that Win carbine with a Blackhawk or Vaquero....

Although I'm a fine one to talk...I don't have a .357 Levergun...Does a Marlin Mdl 30AW in .30/30 count when paired with a 50th Year .357 Blackhawk? ? ?

 

[H2O MAN]

foghornl H20Man:

Good lookin' shooting irons....Although you really should pair that Win carbine with a Blackhawk or Vaquero....

Thanks foghornl

I looked at those, but I prefer the grip angle on the GP100...

 

[ThomasT]

Buy the marlin. I've had the rossi and mine wouldn't shoot lead worth a hoot. One poster said they have changed the rifling twist on the newer guns. That may help.

 

[Brian Williams]

I have a Marlin and it is a great gun.

 

[glockman19]

I just called Marlin. Order today and you'll get it in March 2009. they are running 4-5 months behind. Also they ONLY produce to order. They don't just make a numbered run. It's based on orders.

In a perfect world I would get one in Stainless Steel to match my 1894SS in .44 and my S&W 686.

 

[62fusil]

I just picked up the Puma (Rossi) '92 in .357 Mag. I've only had time to try it with light .38's (need to load up some .357) but it shot very nice. Hardly any recoil to mention with the .38's.

I was using home cast 158gr RNFP's with no feeding problems. I suspect WC's and SWC's would be a problem based on the feed angle.

 

[Seafarer12]

I have a Navy Arms (Rossi) and it is a nice gun. I like it better than the Marlins. It has a smoother action and looks better IMO. I never cared much for the look of the 94's. Mine feeds everything fine except WC's. I took it out this weekend and had a blast with it.

 

[frogomatic]

Anyone try the Puma M-92s?

yup, I've got one in 454 casull. Nice rifle, it shoots well, and comes with fairly nice fiberoptic sights. One of the smoothest lever actions I've had opportunity to use, and it hasn't given me any problems with feeding either the 454 or 45lc.

Don't listen to those 44mag guys...a 454 retains more energy at 100 yards than a 44mag generates at the muzzle...

 

[76shuvlinoff]

Marlin 1894c .357 and Ruger Blackhawk .357.
Why? For me, a non hunter and non reloader this is an extremely affordable plinking, varmint eradication, and home defense rifle that makes me feel like a 10yr old everytime I pick it up. Paired with the SA pistol I can't stop grinning when I get them out even if it's just to clean them. I have a quality 1911, a great all around pump 12 ga. and even some tupperware for HD and SD too....... but I love this combo.