Winchester or Marlin levergun in .444?

[Salty Dog]

So I have a dilemma of the most wonderful kind; I recently found my way into a little extra money, and I've decided to purchase a levergun in .444 Marlin.

Found a good deal on a Marlin 444SS listed online, and went to my local shop to work out FFL transfer details. While I'm there he shows me a trade he just received into the shop, a Winchester 94 in .444.

Now, after transfer and shipping fees, these guns are essentially the same price. Which is the more reliable gun? How about accuracy. I know the Marlins come with an excellent reputation, but I don't know much about the Wins for this cartridge.

I understand the 94s can be problematic when mounting a scope (I'm not sure I would do this anyway) does anyone have any input on this?

Any help is much appreciated! Thanks!

 

[Oldnamvet]

I'd go with the Marlin. Their .444 rifles have been out there a long time and have proven to be reliable and rugged. Scope mounting is not a problem on them.

 

[Surefire]

I prefer Marlin, based on my lever-actions, the Marlins give a little more quality for the money.

 

[Cosmoline]

I wouldn't be too keen with a '94 frame and a .444 pressure level. I'm sure it's safe but the Marlin will give you more room for handloads and less chance of shooting things loose. On the plus side the Win is quicker in the hand.

 

[hoghunting]

I also agree with everything that has been said about the Marlin and will add that the Marlin is easier to clean. By removing one screw, the lever and bolt are removed from the receiver so you can clean from the chamber. You almost have to completely strip the Win to clean from the chamber.