If I did not already have a 45-70 I'd consider a 444. I'm waiting/hoping the 38-55's are going to show soon .
I've had no rusting issues with my 45-70 GBL or any of the other Remlins I own. If it's primarily inside the barrel, it's usually unflushed blueing salts, if you have warranty left, put in a claim.
I'm not saying I've had no Remlin issues, I've just had no rusting issues.
- used 1895G 45-70G from EE would not cycle some brands of factory ammo, new 336W 30-30 constantly breaking barrel band screws, and a new 1894 44 Mag with a fore end issue & lever screw hole threads not finished properly .
I do not recommend buying a Remlin sight unseen. They have a history of QC issues to live down first. Some of the common QC issues that can be picked up at the retailer.
-canted sights
-no rifling
-bluing salts not rinsed from barrel
-poor stiff cycling - if retailer won't let you cycle gun, walk away and don't look back
-poor fit & finish
For a more complete rundown of common Remlin issues look at the marlin owners forum 'rant' section
Other issues they hide at the factory are hard to find until you dissemble.
Stuff like this little piece of plastic in my 1894 44 Mag. It was between the fore end and receiver, to keep the fore end tight/snug .
Remlin has non-standard treads that require ordering the proper sized taps to clean out threads. I had to order a tap from Brownell's to clean out the lever screw hole in receiver of my 44 Mag so I could reassemble it.
My guide to buying a Remlin is to visit a retailer that has more than 1 in stock, check off stuff on common issue list and pick the best of the bunch. I looked over/went over 5 - 1895GBL 45-70's before I selected the one I wanted. The only Remlin I did not dissemble to smooth out action was my newest, 1894 357 Mag /38 Spl (production stamp May 2018).
ATM I own 4 Remlins, 1895GBL 45-70 Gov, 336GBL 30-30 Win, 1894 357 Mag/38 Spl and 1894 44 Mag/ 44 Spl. I enjoy reloading and shooting them all, I can't really say I have a favorite.