Description
The Marlin 1895 Cape Hunter Package 45-70, 18″ Barrel, Leupold VX3i Scope W/Super Low Mount System is a turn-key, hard-hitting rifle ready for demanding hunts. This package combines the legendary Marlin 1895 lever-action in 45-70 Government with a factory-installed Leupold VX3i 1.5-5x20mm scope, creating a purpose-built tool for dense timber, brush country, or pursuing large game where decisive, powerful shots are required. It ships to Missouri and compliant US states.
Key Features
- Complete, Ready-to-Hunt Package: Rifle and premium optic are mounted and ready for zeroing.
- Leupold VX3i 1.5-5x20mm Scope: Offers bright, clear optics with a versatile magnification range ideal for close-quarters to mid-range shots.
- Super Low Mount System: Provides a perfect cheek weld for fast, instinctive shooting.
- 18″ Barrel with Deep-Blued Finish: Delivers a compact, quick-handling profile without excessive velocity loss.
- Side-Ejecting Action: Allows for easy, low-profile scope mounting without offset bases.
- Solid Top Receiver with Drilled & Tapped Holes: Ensures a secure, stable platform for the included scope mount.
Specifications & Details
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Caliber | 45-70 Government |
| Barrel Length | 18 inches |
| Overall Length | Approx. 37.5 inches |
| Magazine Capacity | 4+1 rounds |
| Scope | Leupold VX3i 1.5-5x20mm |
| Action | Lever-Action, Side-Eject |
The rifle’s solid-top receiver is drilled and tapped, and the included Leupold mount system installs directly—no gunsmithing required. This is a critical detail when you’re in the field and need a reliable, solid zero. The 45-70 cartridge, with a tube magazine capacity of 4+1 rounds, is a proven stopper. At a total package price of $1221.99, this represents a significant value over purchasing the rifle and scope separately.
Who This Rifle Is For
This package is for the hunter who operates in thick cover where shots appear fast and close. Think Missouri whitetail in dense riverbottom timber, or a bear hunt in the Ozark backcountry. It’s for the shooter who understands that a 45-70 isn’t about long-range paper punching; it’s about delivering authoritative energy on target within 150 yards. The setup also appeals to those who want a classic, powerful rifle for wilderness defense scenarios, where the mere presence of such a firearm commands respect. The total weight, around 7.5 pounds scoped, makes it manageable for all-day carries in rough terrain.
Pros & Cons
Pros: The primary advantage is readiness. You unbox, zero, and hunt. The Leupold VX3i is a lifetime-optics brand, offering exceptional light transmission in low-light dawn or dusk conditions. The 18″ barrel provides excellent maneuverability in a blind or thick brush. The side-eject design is superior for scope use compared to top-eject models. The 45-70 platform has immense aftermarket support for stocks, sights, and ammunition from brands like Hornady and Buffalo Bore.
Cons: Here’s the thing—the 45-70 has significant recoil. It’s not a plinking rifle. Ammunition cost is high compared to common calibers. The 18″ barrel sacrifices some velocity versus longer barrels, though with modern ammunition this is less of a concern for its intended range. The lever-action requires practice to run smoothly under pressure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the scope already mounted and bore-sighted?
A: The scope is mounted in the included super low rings on the receiver, but it is not bore-sighted. You will need to finalize the zero at the range with your chosen ammunition. The mount system is solid and installs directly to the drilled and tapped receiver.
Q: What is the effective range of this 45-70 setup?
A: With the Leupold VX3i 1.5-5x scope and modern lever-evolution ammunition, this rifle is effective and ethical on large game out to 150-200 yards in skilled hands. Its true strength, however, is inside 100 yards where its trajectory is very flat and its terminal performance is devastating.
Q: Can I use iron sights with this scope setup?
A: No. The scope, mounted low on the receiver, blocks the use of the rifle’s factory iron sights. This is a scope-dedicated configuration. For a backup sighting system, you would need a quick-detach (QD) mount system, which this package does not include.
Available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide. FFL transfer required for firearm purchases.
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