Looking to buy my first lever action for black bears.

I have been looking at a Win94 XTr in 375. I believe they are a top eject. Would that mean I would have to put a scout type scope on it it if I wanted it scoped?

I have also been looking at a 45-70 SS Marlin guide gun. There are a few grizz around but I am not sure if this is too much gun for me. I currently shoot a 300 WIn mag.

I think the 375 would do everything I need of it even on grizz at close range, not ideal but should work just as well to a deer rifel if you stumbled upon a grizz while deer hunting. However I am just not sure.

Any help or comments would be appreciated.

Greg

If you shoot a .300 Win Mag the 45/70 will not be too much gun. Between the two choices you listed, get the Guide Gun; you'll have a bigger bullet for the bear and better availability of ammo for your hunting needs IMHO.

If you live somewhere where the weather is not too nice (I.E. Alberta, Canada), then Stainless is a big plus.

With either caliber, and for the intended purpose, I do not think you need a scope.
It would be big and a hassle.

I would suggest peep sights as they are rugged and the quickest way to get on target.

375 Win is a very nice cartridge if you want your gun to be a bit lighter.
The 45-70 is a pretty hefty gun to carry off into the woods.

Just remember, if this is a gun you will end up using on grizzly, that there is NO cartridge too big for grizzly bear.

-Spencer

I would recommend the Marlin 5/70 Guide gun. My brother has one, it shoots even better than my longer bbld Marlin lever did.