Lever Rifle and Matching Revolver
- Thread starter JCook5003
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gvnwst
Member
I would go with a .45, mostly because that is my favoritve revolver cartridge that there is a lever action for. A wide range of bullets, and power levels matching the .44.
Would a 20" barrel work for you in the carbine? I have a Marlin 1894 in .45 Colt and a Ruger Redhawk (KRH-45-4) also in .45 Colt. Since you reload you'll have numerous options available to you which isn't really the case for factory .45 Colt ammunition. I'm shooting 250 grain RNFP and 300 grain FP hard cast bullets pushed along at 1200+fps with a bunch of H110 (same load for both rifle and revolver). The loads are accurate and practical too and the Marlin really comes to life with those loads. Out in the field you'd have almost 3/4 lb of lead at your immediate disposal.
I don't suppose there's such a thing as a .45-70 Government revolver.
I don't suppose there's such a thing as a .45-70 Government revolver.
There are a few realities to consider, here.
There's no theoretical problem with a .45LC. However, there's a practical problem with it, and it seems little has changed since Elmer Keith abandoned it for the .44 Special as the basis for a new Magnum, back in the 1950s.
If you want a double-action revolver that takes hot loads, you can get a number of them in .44, but not in .45LC.
Sure, you can get one Redhawk in .45LC, but you can get a whole bunch of them, and Super Redhakws, and various Smith and Wessons, new and used, in .44 Magnum. Saw a nice 629 in a pawn shop the other day, actually, for a decent price. Didn't see any used .45LC double actions capable of handling hot loads there, and I never have. And in stainless, which is all I'd even consider for daily farm use? Yeah, right.
In a lever gun, you can pay extra for a Marlin Cowboy model, or you can get a stainless Marlin instead, for less money. As a working gun, I can't think of much I'd rather have than a stainless Marlin lever action.
And yes, there's a .45-70 revolver, but it's a novelty, not a working holster gun.
There's no theoretical problem with a .45LC. However, there's a practical problem with it, and it seems little has changed since Elmer Keith abandoned it for the .44 Special as the basis for a new Magnum, back in the 1950s.
If you want a double-action revolver that takes hot loads, you can get a number of them in .44, but not in .45LC.
Sure, you can get one Redhawk in .45LC, but you can get a whole bunch of them, and Super Redhakws, and various Smith and Wessons, new and used, in .44 Magnum. Saw a nice 629 in a pawn shop the other day, actually, for a decent price. Didn't see any used .45LC double actions capable of handling hot loads there, and I never have. And in stainless, which is all I'd even consider for daily farm use? Yeah, right.
In a lever gun, you can pay extra for a Marlin Cowboy model, or you can get a stainless Marlin instead, for less money. As a working gun, I can't think of much I'd rather have than a stainless Marlin lever action.
And yes, there's a .45-70 revolver, but it's a novelty, not a working holster gun.
Heck
Member
I would go with the .44 mag.
ArmedBear said:
AGREED!! That's why I have a Guide Gun and XLR in .45-70 ... both in stainless too!!
I don't think the .45 Colt is available in stainless (from Marlin) which is a pity. As for the .44 Mag, is the 1:38 twist rate a non-issue? I would like one of those in the future.thunder173
Member
Oh I dunno,...I just use my .44 Mag Ruger SBH and a .44 Mag Winchester Trapper for that kinda thought.....never even thought about changing that,....though I do own a couple of other rifle/handgun combo's in 9mm, .22LR and .22 mag....Ruger SA's usually fit in there most of the time,..except maybe the 9mm pair....
Tamlin
Member
I bought a Rossi Lever gun in .357/.38 to compliment my GP100. But, after thinking more about it, I will carry the Rossi Lever BUT will also carry my S&W .44 mag. Why? Because I want the rifle for plinking and general hunting - rabbits, coyotes, etc. If I can't kill something with the levergun, a handgun in the same caliber sure as heck won't kill it, either. If a black bear attacks (which is rare, I know), and 9 rounds of .357 don't do anything, I want to draw a .44 Mag revolver, NOT a .357 revolver! If I'm hunting bigger game, such as deer or black bear, I will carry a different gun to start with - my 6.5X55 Swede.
76shuvlinoff
Member
Not a good pic, Marlin .357 and SA Ruger convertible both just came from the rrange and needed a rub down. Yeah I know, OP wanted a DA suggestion but this makes a nice combo for me.
Almost all the .44 mag rifles I've seen will not stabalize bullets over 300 gr. Because they are 1:38 or 1:20 twist instead of 1:16 or better.
For thr best all around versitility, I'd go with the .45 LC especially if you reload. Otherwise, go with the .357/.38 Special. BTW, you might want to reconsider a SA instead of a DA revolver. I've got a Blackhawk .357/.38 Special/9mm convertable that I'd keep over all my other revolvers. Besides, you'd also have almost enough guns to do Cowboy Action.
Heavy .45 Colt +P
Item 3A: 325 gr. L.B.T.- L.F.N. (1325 fps / M.E. 1267 ft. lbs.)
(Big game up to 1000 lbs.) Per Box of 50
$72.75
Order Now! Per Box of 20
$33.95
Order Now
Item 3B: 300 gr. Speer J.F.N. (1325 fps / M.E. 1170 ft. lbs.)
(Big game up to 1000 lbs.) Per Box of 50
$72.75
Order Now! Per Box of 20
$33.95
Order Now
Item 3C: 260 gr. J.H.P. (1450 fps / M.E. 1214 ft. lbs.)
(Big game up to 350 lbs.) Per Box of 50
$72.75
Order Now! Per Box of 20
$33.95
Order Now
Item 3D: 300 gr. Speer J.F.N. (1200 fps / M.E. 959 ft. lbs.)
(Loaded to shorter length 1.585 inch specifically for Freedom
Arms Model 97 .45 Colt - Big game up to 800 lbs.) Per Box of 50
$72.75
Order Now!
These Heavy .45 Colt +P loads are safe in all LARGE FRAME Ruger revolvers.
(includes Blackhawk, Super Blackhawk, all pre-2005 Vaquero, Bisley, Redhawk)
These Heavy .45 Colt +P loads are NOT intended for the New Model Vaquero (small frame).
These loads are also safe in all modern Model 1892 leverguns
as well as all Winchester & Marlin 1894's
Heavy .44 Magnum
Item 4A: 305 gr. L.B.T.- L.F.N. (1325 fps / M.E. 1189 ft. lbs.)
(Big game up to 1000 lbs.) Per Box of 50
$72.75
Order Now! Per Box of 20
$33.95
Order Now
Item 4B: 300 gr. Speer J.F.N. (1300 fps / M.E. 1126 ft. lbs.)
(Big game up to 1000 lbs.) Per Box of 50
$72.75
Order Now! Per Box of 20
$33.95
Order Now
Item 4C: 270 gr. Speer Uni Core. (1450 fps / M.E. 1260 ft. lbs.)
(Big game up to 800 lbs.) Per Box of 50
$72.75
Order Now! Per Box of 20
$33.95
Order Now
Exterior Ballistics
Item 4A 100yds (0) 150yds (-9) 200yds (-27) 250yds (-53)
Item 4B 100yds (0) 150yds (-10) 200yds (-27) 250yds (-54)
Item 4C 100yds (0) 150yds (-8) 200yds (-22) 250yds (-45)
.44 Magnum +P+
Item 4D: 340 gr. LBT-LFN GC . (1478 fps / M.E. 1649 ft. lbs.)
Per Box of 20
$35.16
Order Now
NEW HEAVY 44 MAGNUM +P+
This new load is designed for only certain revolvers that have the cylinder length to handle it. They are as follows. Ruger Red Hawk, Ruger Super Red Hawk, Ruger Super Blackhawk or Vaquero, Freedom Arms Model 83, Taurus Raging Bull and Dan Wesson Revolvers. Suitable rifles include T/C Encore, "modified" Marlin 1894, Winchester 1894, any rifle with a falling block action and the Handi Rifle.
What do we mean above by “modified” Marlin? Marlin (for an unknown, not well thought out reason) is using a very slow rate of twist (1/38 inches) on their 1894 chambered in 44 mag. Because of this slow rate of twist, the heaviest bullet that the factory Marlin will stabilize is about 270grs. Other firearm makers that chamber for the 44 mag all use a much faster rate of twist so that their guns will stabilize and therefore accurately shoot bullets over 300grs. Many folks today want their 44 magnums to be able to utilize the heavy 300gr. and heavier bullets—Marlin has not figured this out. If you want decent accuracy out of our new +p+ load in a Marlin, it will need to be rebarreled with a twist rate of roughly 1/20 inch. I have Dave Clay rebarrel all my Marlin 1894’s with a faster twist barrel. A 44 magnum that wont accurately shoot 300gr. or heavier bullets is useless to me. Call him at 817-783-6099 for pricing.
This load brings a level of power to the 44 mag. that has never before been known.
The below velocities tell the story.
5.5 inch factory stock Red Hawk--1401 fps
7.5 inch factory stock Red Hawk--1478 fps
http://www.buffalobore.com/ammunition/default.htm#45colt
For thr best all around versitility, I'd go with the .45 LC especially if you reload. Otherwise, go with the .357/.38 Special. BTW, you might want to reconsider a SA instead of a DA revolver. I've got a Blackhawk .357/.38 Special/9mm convertable that I'd keep over all my other revolvers. Besides, you'd also have almost enough guns to do Cowboy Action.
Heavy .45 Colt +P
Item 3A: 325 gr. L.B.T.- L.F.N. (1325 fps / M.E. 1267 ft. lbs.)
(Big game up to 1000 lbs.) Per Box of 50
$72.75
Order Now! Per Box of 20
$33.95
Order Now
Item 3B: 300 gr. Speer J.F.N. (1325 fps / M.E. 1170 ft. lbs.)
(Big game up to 1000 lbs.) Per Box of 50
$72.75
Order Now! Per Box of 20
$33.95
Order Now
Item 3C: 260 gr. J.H.P. (1450 fps / M.E. 1214 ft. lbs.)
(Big game up to 350 lbs.) Per Box of 50
$72.75
Order Now! Per Box of 20
$33.95
Order Now
Item 3D: 300 gr. Speer J.F.N. (1200 fps / M.E. 959 ft. lbs.)
(Loaded to shorter length 1.585 inch specifically for Freedom
Arms Model 97 .45 Colt - Big game up to 800 lbs.) Per Box of 50
$72.75
Order Now!
These Heavy .45 Colt +P loads are safe in all LARGE FRAME Ruger revolvers.
(includes Blackhawk, Super Blackhawk, all pre-2005 Vaquero, Bisley, Redhawk)
These Heavy .45 Colt +P loads are NOT intended for the New Model Vaquero (small frame).
These loads are also safe in all modern Model 1892 leverguns
as well as all Winchester & Marlin 1894's
Heavy .44 Magnum
Item 4A: 305 gr. L.B.T.- L.F.N. (1325 fps / M.E. 1189 ft. lbs.)
(Big game up to 1000 lbs.) Per Box of 50
$72.75
Order Now! Per Box of 20
$33.95
Order Now
Item 4B: 300 gr. Speer J.F.N. (1300 fps / M.E. 1126 ft. lbs.)
(Big game up to 1000 lbs.) Per Box of 50
$72.75
Order Now! Per Box of 20
$33.95
Order Now
Item 4C: 270 gr. Speer Uni Core. (1450 fps / M.E. 1260 ft. lbs.)
(Big game up to 800 lbs.) Per Box of 50
$72.75
Order Now! Per Box of 20
$33.95
Order Now
Exterior Ballistics
Item 4A 100yds (0) 150yds (-9) 200yds (-27) 250yds (-53)
Item 4B 100yds (0) 150yds (-10) 200yds (-27) 250yds (-54)
Item 4C 100yds (0) 150yds (-8) 200yds (-22) 250yds (-45)
.44 Magnum +P+
Item 4D: 340 gr. LBT-LFN GC . (1478 fps / M.E. 1649 ft. lbs.)
Per Box of 20
$35.16
Order Now
NEW HEAVY 44 MAGNUM +P+
This new load is designed for only certain revolvers that have the cylinder length to handle it. They are as follows. Ruger Red Hawk, Ruger Super Red Hawk, Ruger Super Blackhawk or Vaquero, Freedom Arms Model 83, Taurus Raging Bull and Dan Wesson Revolvers. Suitable rifles include T/C Encore, "modified" Marlin 1894, Winchester 1894, any rifle with a falling block action and the Handi Rifle.
What do we mean above by “modified” Marlin? Marlin (for an unknown, not well thought out reason) is using a very slow rate of twist (1/38 inches) on their 1894 chambered in 44 mag. Because of this slow rate of twist, the heaviest bullet that the factory Marlin will stabilize is about 270grs. Other firearm makers that chamber for the 44 mag all use a much faster rate of twist so that their guns will stabilize and therefore accurately shoot bullets over 300grs. Many folks today want their 44 magnums to be able to utilize the heavy 300gr. and heavier bullets—Marlin has not figured this out. If you want decent accuracy out of our new +p+ load in a Marlin, it will need to be rebarreled with a twist rate of roughly 1/20 inch. I have Dave Clay rebarrel all my Marlin 1894’s with a faster twist barrel. A 44 magnum that wont accurately shoot 300gr. or heavier bullets is useless to me. Call him at 817-783-6099 for pricing.
This load brings a level of power to the 44 mag. that has never before been known.
The below velocities tell the story.
5.5 inch factory stock Red Hawk--1401 fps
7.5 inch factory stock Red Hawk--1478 fps
http://www.buffalobore.com/ammunition/default.htm#45colt
Last edited:
I understand the Buffalo Bore guy's objection to .44 rifles, because his goal is to load the heaviest possible bullets at the highest velocities, in any gun.
However, from a practical point of view, why in hell would you want a bullet over 300 grains in a .44 carbine?
Get a REAL gun (.45-70) if you need bullets over 300 grains.
Realistically, bullets over 300 grains in a pistol caliber carbine are a VERY specialized niche.
However, from a practical point of view, why in hell would you want a bullet over 300 grains in a .44 carbine?
Get a REAL gun (.45-70) if you need bullets over 300 grains.
Realistically, bullets over 300 grains in a pistol caliber carbine are a VERY specialized niche.
Wow Guys-
Thanks for all the advice.....upon consideration of reloading ammo availability and what I already have (Large Frame Vaquero in .44 mag) and the brass, dies, and bullets I already have I have decided on .44 simply for logistics.
Most people here recommend Marlin 1894's, any objection to the Winchesters? Also should I be looking for the more compact 16" barrel or a 20" barrel, which do you think is more practical, and why?
Thanks,
Josh
Thanks for all the advice.....upon consideration of reloading ammo availability and what I already have (Large Frame Vaquero in .44 mag) and the brass, dies, and bullets I already have I have decided on .44 simply for logistics.
Most people here recommend Marlin 1894's, any objection to the Winchesters? Also should I be looking for the more compact 16" barrel or a 20" barrel, which do you think is more practical, and why?
Thanks,
Josh
Ben Shepherd
Member
I prefer the win 94s over the marlins. Slimmer, lighter, and handier than the Marlin. Some folks dislike the full length action in pistol calibers, I personally don't mind it.
The big drawback right now is you'll have to find one in the used market, and a lot of folks are engaged in, shall we say, speculation.
The big drawback right now is you'll have to find one in the used market, and a lot of folks are engaged in, shall we say, speculation.
Last edited:
The Marlin is much easier to add alternative sights (e.g. Skinner) or optics if you want (probably not on this gun). The closed-top design keeps dirt out and it's a good deal easier to clean (one screw and everything comes out).
I prefer the slightly fatter Marlin, but I do like the handling of the old 1892.
I would choose stainless over blue for a working gun.
I prefer the slightly fatter Marlin, but I do like the handling of the old 1892.
I would choose stainless over blue for a working gun.
gvnwst
Member
Go to page 1, the BIG honkin' revolver krochus is showing off? That comes in 45/70 too
And any other big, harsh, and loud handgun cartridge.Link:
http://www.magnumresearch.com/bfr_specs.asp
Sorry for the thread drift...
bubbadad
member
I have a puma in 44 mag and another in 480 ruger. matched with 12" taurus hunter in 44mag. and raging bull 480 ruger. I actually shoot the 480 combo better.
streakr
Member
Why not several? It is certainly possible with the great choice of Marlins and Rugers in 357, 44Mag and 45LC
I do!
s
I do!
s
flipajig
Member
I just finished two mo ago with a m94 in 44 mag to go with my SBH im verry satisfide with both of them,(If I could get my m94 to shoot some cast bullets) I plan on hunting with both of them. so you can see where my vote is
BENELLIMONTE
member
I own a Winchester 30-30 Trapper 16". I am contemplating a "BFR" in 30-30. How does that sound for matching caliber rifle & revolver?
Good luck,
"Monte"
Good luck,
"Monte"
MT GUNNY
Member
I will mention that my Winny in .357 also shoots .38 Special just Fine!
I thought that might intrest you!
I thought that might intrest you!
GRAYRID3R
Member
I just bought a Henry Big Boy in ,44 mag/.44spl. I already owned a couple Ruger revolvers, a .44 mag Redhawk and a .45 Vaquero. My option was a .45LC or a .44 mag. I went with the .44 for better hunting capabilities. IMO the Henry is a great rifle choice. Why has nobody here suggested it?
memphisjim
Member
- Joined
- Jul 15, 2008
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your initial trhought was best 357mag in both
plinckwith 38
plinckwith 38
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