I'm getting stuff together for a 45/70 built on a Siamese Mauser action. Haven't had a whole lot of experience with this cartridge. Any suggestions on barrel length? Don't need another carbine, I was thinking 24" at the very least and maybe 26" or??? Worst can happen would be a cut and crown job.

Guess you'll first have to decide what you want to do with the gun. Mine has a 25" X 1" hex barrel, it shoots very good, calms the recoil somewhat. It's very heavy also which doesn't bother me because I carry it in 4 wheeler boot, but weight may be a deciding factor for you. Keep in mind I once had a Ruger #3 in 45-70 that with max loads was VISIOUS!!

For a 45/70 I would definitely keep the barrel to 22" at most. My marlin has a 22" barrel and I feel it would be better off with a 20" or even the guide gun barrel of 18 1/2".

PC is right ( 45-70 in australia ?? ) ,after all the straight case and fast burning powders mean you don't gain by long barrels. I cut my 1885 from 28 to 22" without hesitation. The choice of 18 to 22 look for balance and looks.

The lenght between 18.5" and 22" makes a little difference in performance so I would opt for the shorter one for a lighter and handier package. Good luck.

I'm sure you know what you're getting into. The 45/70 is a little tricky to get to feed and extract in a bolt gun due to the straight wall and big rim. The long barrel won't hurt any and it will probably be a pussycat to shoot. You won't really gain anything over an 18 or 20 except weight, but if you already have a few carbines Why Not?

Mete,

I think the 45/70 is used quite a bit in Australia, all my hunting group have one so assume others do to

It might be easier to get a 450 Marlin to work in a bolt gun. Performance would be identical.

Thanks for the input, guys. A lot of guys have mentioned that there are better and easier, (not to mention more efficient) projects that one could get into, but, well, you know, some guys just never learn...