My 1895 arrived!

H4831

H4831

CGN Ultra frequent flyer
Rating - 100%
151   0   0
Location
BC
At 1:35 the mailman very graciously delivered a parcel to our house, containing my new Marlin 1895, 45-70.
Opened box, wiped it down and cleaned the barrel. While waiting for the rifle to arrive from Winnipeg I had loaded some rounds in four lots, varrying in speed, according to the books, from 1200 fps to 1800 fps for the 405 grain bullet. Loaded my stuff together and at 2:20 was at the range, by myself. Shot samples from all groups to see how the little girl reacted to the differing charges.
At 2:55 I sat down at my computer to tell you guys about it.
 
I'll bet that 405 grain, 1,800 fps load got your attention ..... With a load like that, a fellow doesn't have to check to see if the gun went off after he's pulled the trigger (unless, of course, he's just regaining consciousness). I had a Marlin 1895 in 45-70 once and really liked it. I still got two 45-70's, although they're both over 100 years old. Love shooting them.
 
Thanks for the replys, fellows. Today's shooting wasn't for grouping, I just wanted to see what the various loads felt like. And Kirk, you are correct, I didn't have to check to see if the bullets got out the barrel with that heaviest load! It was 42 grains of IMR 4198. According to the story in the Reloaders Digest, that was actually closer to about 1840, in the same rifle as mine. It was certainly a shootable load, though. The loads I had in the 1400 to 1450 were very nice to shoot, so my loads to try accuracy will be from your lowest "yellow lined loads," Johnn, up to the 1400, or so.
The gun is blue. If I had listened to my grandson, it would have been stainless! But somehow, blue has just been engraved in me for too many years, to change now. I am certainly pleased with the appearance of the rifle. Wood to metal fitting is really good and the action cycles very smooth. If Photobucket would ever work for me the way it is supposed to, I would post some pictures.
They look best as they are, but I have the Marlin base mount for it, so will hang a Redfield 1.5 to 4 on it, at least to see what are the best loads.
And Kirk, I too have a 45-70 that is about 119 years old. It is a Springfield Trapdoor in beautiful condition. I hunted with it when I was a teenager. So while I was waiting for the Marlin to arrive from SIR, I loaded some trapdoor rounds and took it to the range a couple of times. On one occassion I met two friends at the range (actually by pre-arrangement) who each brought their respective 45-70s. Both are active in black powder shooting.
Cheers, Bruce
 
I'm sure you'll enjoy your Marlin 45/70....i don't believe their is a better gun for hunting...i dolled mine up with a large loop lever, Williams Peep, and Fibre optic front sight....good luck with your new toy.......Ben
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top Bottom