I know this one is a really tough decision here. Which version of the Handi 45-70 configuration do you like the most. You only get to pick one.
Buffalo classic 45-70 Barrel
Standard 45-70 Barrel
Shorty 45-70 Barrel
Well I would say that that's gonna depend on my intended uses.
I have a few shorties and over all I like them. BUT IMHO not all calibers make good choices for a shorty. A friend just HAD TO HAVE a M1A shorty. Skimped sold a few guns and saved and bought it... Shot it ONE TRIP TO RANGE and promptly SOLD IT AT A LOSS! The gun felt great, handled and carried much better then full size but WOW did she bark!! Even with double ears it was too loud to enjoy shooting it.
I have a couple real nice and desireable Marlin Marauder lever rifles. I DONT SHOOT THEM for the same reason!!! Simply too loud!
I had a contender in 12&14" barrels in 375 win and 45/70 calibers... I sold them off for different calibers.
SO a shorty 45/70... NOPE not me!
The std model is a great hunter. Still short enough to maneuver in thick stuff yet the muzzle is far enough that reg hearing protection works well. If I wanted a hunter this would be my choice.
The BC is real pretty, it needs a good peep site IMHO but other than that it's about perfect. If your a cowboy action shooter this makes a good choice for the side matches. If you a target shooter this a hoot to ring gongs at some real long ranges.
If I had to have just one... I'll side with vanity.
I'll take a BC all day!
CW