The better Winchester?

[Mastrogiacomo]

I'm going to save up to get the Winchester model 94 in a .357 caliber. Question is, which to buy, the 94 ranger compact that carries 9 rounds and has a 16" barrel -- or the Trails End that has a 20" barrel and carries 11 rounds?

Both are nice guns but which would be better to use at home and the range? Thanks.

 

[Elkslayer]

If it was me, I'd get the Marlin!

 

[Mastrogiacomo]

So far it looks the Trails end is getting the vote. I'd be curious why the Ranger compact wouldn't get the nod due to the smaller barrel -- it looks to be a better bed side gun based on that.

 

[macavada]

I think the Marlin does feed .38 Special rounds more reliably.

The longer barrelled rifle also has a longer magazine thus holding more rounds.

 

[Mastrogiacomo]

But the .357 probably packs more punch....

 

[macavada]

No doubt. I'm just talking about from a versatility standpoint. I have a 94 .357 with the 24" barrel. It shoots just fine, but it's a little work to get it to feed .38 Specials.

I've heard that the Marlins feed both cartridges reliably. Just another thing to consider.

 

[Mastrogiacomo]

Still, I've heard the trigger pull on the Winchester is actually smoother.

 

[telomerase]

I've fired good examples of both Marlin and Winchester (though I see why people switch the sights to ghost rings for longer-range use). I like the short barrel if it might be used indoors.