New Winchester 1886 vs new Marlin 1895 (45-70)

[rikstar65]

I have read so much about the decline in quality of new ( post 2009) Marlins and I have a new Winchester ( made by Miroku) 1892 45 colt that I am very happy with- very well made and shoots great. So now I want a 45-70 cal lever action rifle. Any thoughts on the New Winchester 1886 vs new Marlin 1895 ?
Rick

[Graybeard]

Given a choice I'd sure take the 1886 in a heart beat.

[Swampman]

The 1886 is very nice.  It's much heavier and about twice as expensive as the Marlin.

[oberhaz]

Have you noticed the quality, or lack thereof in the new Marlins. Don't even waste your time and hard earned money. I may sound a bit harsh, but do yourself a favor, look for a used 1895. The new Winchesters are very nice but pricey. I'd opt for a nice used Marlin.

[mannyrock]

 
  Or, save yourself some money and find a quality used Marlin 1895.   They are pretty easy to find.

[Ranch13]

Careful shopping will get you a new model Win 86 for not much more than the msrp on a Marlin.
They are of course two entirely different rifles. The marlin is nothing more than the 336 action adapted to take 45-70 cartridges and thereby allows the top mounting of a scope.
 The 86 is a continuation of the original design with the addition of a tang saftey.The 86 will handle 500 gr bullets with ease, the Marlin maybe not so much unless using specially designed deep seated bullets. Top mounting a scope requires the use of a scout scope. But the 45-70 isn't necessarily a scope required cartridge and a good reciever sight will serve well. The 86's do stand head and shoulders above the Marlins in fit and finish, and that will account for some of the price difference.
Just look at your 92, imagine a rifle about 3lbs heavier with the action long enough to accept cartridge length to 2.8 inches and you'll have a good idea what you're getting into with an 86.

[rikstar65]

Thanks for all of your input. It was very helpful. I was leaning toward the Win and now it's settled!

[eastbank]

top rifle is a first year 1895 serial number B001920, bottom rifle is a marlin 94 sporter 44mag, the sporter is quite hard to find as less than 1500 were made in 1973. . both shoot better than i do. good used marlin,s can be had for a good price eastbank.

[Swampman]

If you're going to shoot lead the Marlin will be more accurate.

[uno676]

I have a marlin 1895 cowboy I like it . Very accurate but the previous owner put a crescent stock on it ok for cowboy loads but not real hunting load. It will take chunks out of your shoulder. Ouch!


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