First Marlin

[.45]

Just bought my first Marlin. It's a 1895. Was wondering what year of manufacture is. Serial #B0058xx. Will have pics and range report as soon as weather clears.

[Swampman]

I believe that's a 1972 era 1895. I have one too s/n B0035XX. 1972 was the first year of production.

[win92]

we are not to far down the assmbly line S/N B0049xx

[.45]

The 2 pics look the same as mine. Thanks for the info. I can't wait to shoot it!!

[Swampman]

These guns are my favorite Marlins. They have all the best features IMO.

[Noah Zark]

.45: Congrats on acquiring a very desirable (IMO) Marlin 1895 variant, if not the most desirable.

My 1972 straight-stocked Marlin 1895 has a cross between Microgroove and Ballard rifling, something like eight lands and grooves IIRC. It's been a while since I counted them. I like the straight stock, the balance and handling, and it shoots cast bullets like no tomorrow.

Noah

[.45]

I will be casting my own bullets, so it is good to hear these rifles like them.
Since I do not yet have any mold for 45/70, anyone have some favorites?

[win92]

I purchased an inexpensive Lee aluminium mould 405gr hollow base as this was my first experiance with cast bullets.All I can say is now I'm hooked . This thing likes them, also the 420 RCBS flat nose, 300 gr Laser cast as well as a variety of jacketed stuff. I wish I had discovered a 45-70 years back. Easy to see why it has survived over 130 years.

[marlinman93]

I have several molds for the .45-70, but two of my favorites for the later 1895's like your's are the 405 gr. and 360 gr. Lee Molds. I have had good luck with Lee molds, and those two work well in the Micro-Groove barrels of later 1895's.