Maybe I"ll buy a new rifle today.

[snackberry]

Hi all,

Wanna-be hunter here.

Thinking of picking up either a Marlin 1895g or a Browning X-Bolt Composite Stalker in .338 (I've ready many posts on both of these rifles here on the Net). The rifles I currently own include a Mossy 500 Persuader with 18.5" barrel and an XT-22.

Primary purpose of rifle would be for black/brown bear defence in Northern BC, although it would be nice to be able to get some moose, elk, or other game as well. I understand that the Browning will have much much further range compared to the levergun.

However, I'm more inclined to pick up the Marlin because of its physical properties but I'm worried about the large number of posters complaining about various issues with the gun.

I've looked it over and can't see any real issues (but then again, I'm really new to firearms, so maybe I'm missing something).

Any comments/recos? (Although at the end of the day, I'll probably still get a Marlin!)



Thanks!

 

[Charlie38]

You can also look at the Browning BLR stainless in 450 Marin, there is one for sale on the EE right now, they are nice too and would fit the bill for bear swatter

 

[Sun_and_Steel_77]

I don't always buy a rifle a day,
but when I do it's a remchester....Stay thirsty my friends!


1895G would be comparable in weight to that browning with a compact optic so it's a wash there.
The Guide will be shorter and handier. The Browning in .338 is the most versatile rifle of the two by a wide margin.
Both rounds will burger a bear with authority.

 

[pilot2001]

Not sure what too say ... lots of good choices out there. I personally am not a Browning fan