New To Family Marlin 45-70

[AndyLate]

Marlin 45-70s are awesome.

I have a stainless 1895 guide gun, which is a great package, and a Ruger Number 1 single shot - both in 45-70. The Remchester factory loads are pretty mild and the recoil shows it. You can also shoot loads safely in the Marlin that make my eyes water.

I see the 45-70 as a handloader's cartridge because the ammo is so pricey. On the other hand, between the factory 300/405 gr. jacketed rounds, various lead "cowboy loads, Hornady's leverevolution, and Garrett's +P ammo, you can do it all with factory loaded.

I would be very concerned with penetration in the 45-70 - they won't stop inside a person unless you are using a "collar button" bullet like these http://www.westernbullet.com/ly4gr6.html

In my opinion, the 357 Magnum lever rifles are a far better choice for defensive use. The 357 is right on the heels of a 30-30 when fired from a 16 or 18" barrel, and they have a higher magazine capacity. Recoil is naturally much lighter, of course.

Andy