.444 chamberings

There used to be lively debate on this on the old Marlin Talk site :shock: Guys either sold on one or the other.

I had actually set my sights on a 444 for my first big bore lever rifle a few years back. But, a real nice 45-70 showed itself first. I'm happy with that for sure. But, I think I may still own a 444 some day. I'd put a scope on that gun........
 
The .444 came about in 1963 when the 45-70 had faded into obscurity. With the resurgence of the .45-70, the only real reason to pick up a .444 is the better factory loads for it. If you handload, the .45-70 is bigger (.458 vs .429) which is better. I have both, but don't use the .45-70 much.
 
444 is neat caliber, surprisingly accurate at 100-200yrds, and yet very honest bush rifle with a 265gr projectile. Having said that I’m kinda a sucker for levers and big bores and can also say pretty much same for 450marlin and 45-70, with biggest noteable differences being projectile weights increasing to 325-350gr and up. Definately not ‘need’, but to guys who have more than one or two rifles, a 444 as an option will leave ya with very few regrets.😁
 
I had a CVA single shot 444 for almost a year. Was a great rifle, but I just didn't get a chance to shoot an animal with it.

The best thing about it was the ability to load up a few "shot" loads to carry while out hunting to be able to take the odd grouse.

Changed things up to a 450 BM, just because I found a new ruger #1. Prefer the #1, but it is not a rifle to really compare to the CVA scout. Best thing about the #1 is I can load hot loads in it and push the limits with the falling block set up. Could not figure out a "bird shot" load for it unfortunate as I think the shell is just too short. I might have to give it a go another day with some 3D printed tips to hold the shot out farther.

I read the same thing about the 444 ability to push out past the 45-70 with less recoil. I'm now doing the same with the 450BM, less recoil, and still pushing the copper 290 gr tip @ 2270 fps from the muzzle.

The only other thing I found was a draw back with the 444 is the lack of available bullets to use in the heavier range. Just no one making much of anything anymore. The hornady 265 are impossible to find tips, and only factory ammo available.
 
Few single shots on the commercial market, contender, cva, handi rifle I believe. Winchester did a lever at one point to. I’ve got a bolt action, but it is a custom build.
 
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Rossi is releasing the R95 in .444 Marlin soon-ish, someone needs to back me up on that tho. No clue when they'll make their way here.
Ruger really taking their time giving us a .444 now that they own Marlin, only time until that I suppose
 
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