quote:

Originally posted by arkypete:
I have a Winchester 1886, so please excuse my ignorance.
What is the difference between the various Marlin 45-70s outside of barrel length. Aren't theu all the same rifle with different accessories?
Jim

Hello Jim,
Yup, the main difference is the barrels. The forends on the Cowboy models are shorter then the rest. I've owned them all at one time, and several of the standard 22" versions. The pistol griped versions are easier on the hand with the heavier loads however. The straight grips tend to hammer the hand more. I sold my '1895 Cowboy however because even with loc-tite, with heavy loads the front of the magazine will twist free of the hanger; a real pain if you don't carry a screw driver. My favorite is the stainless guide gun. With a good scope, 300 yards is not a big deal once you learn the trajectory. Love the Win. '86s. Had several. The weight however was a little more than I cared for, but boy did my big 26" barreled job shoot! Good shootin'