Description
The Marlin 1895SBL 45-70 Govt, 18″ SS Barrel, Laminate Stock, Scout Rail, Large Loop, XS Sights, 5rd is a modern, hard-use lever-action rifle built for serious backcountry hunting and defense. It combines the legendary power of the 45-70 Government cartridge with rugged, tactical-ready features like a stainless-steel barrel, ghost ring sights, and a Picatinny rail for optics, all wrapped in a weather-resistant laminate stock. This is a rifle designed for those who need reliability in the toughest conditions.
Key Features
- 45-70 Government Caliber: Delivers massive stopping power for large game or wilderness protection.
- Stainless Steel Construction: 18-inch barrel and receiver resist corrosion in harsh weather.
- Scout-Style Picatinny Rail: Allows forward mounting of long-eye-relief scopes or red dot sights for fast target acquisition.
- XS Ghost Ring Sights: Durable, highly visible rear aperture and front post sight system for quick, accurate shots.
- Large Loop Lever: Accommodates gloved hands for easier cycling in cold weather or under stress.
- Gray/Black Laminate Stock: Provides a stable, weatherproof platform that’s more durable than traditional wood.
Specifications & Details
| Caliber | 45-70 Government |
| Barrel Length | 18.5 inches |
| Overall Length | 37 inches |
| Weight | 7.3 lbs |
| Capacity | 5+1 Rounds |
| Finish | Stainless Steel, Gray Laminate |
Weighing in at 7.3 pounds, the 1895SBL manages the stout 45-70 recoil better than many lighter lever guns. The 18.5-inch barrel strikes a solid balance between maneuverability in thick brush and maintaining useful velocity. The action is smooth from the factory, and the large loop lever is drop-in ready for use—no gunsmithing required to start running this rifle hard. At $1879.06, it sits in a competitive spot against other premium, feature-heavy lever actions. You’re paying for the stainless steel, the laminate stock, and the integrated rail system, which are costly upgrades if added separately to a base model.
Who This Rifle Is For
This rifle is built for the practical hunter or outdoorsperson who operates in wet, rough, or cold environments. Think Alaska, the Rockies, or the dense woods of the Missouri Ozarks. It’s for someone who values the immediate authority of the 45-70 cartridge for bear defense or hunting elk and large boar. The scout rail setup is perfect for hunters who prefer a forward-mounted optic like those from Leupold or Burris, keeping their field of view completely open. If your needs are strictly range plinking or collecting, a more traditional, less expensive Marlin might offer better bang-for-buck.
Pros & Cons
Pros: The corrosion-resistant stainless steel and laminate stock make it arguably the most weatherproof production lever gun available. The integrated XS sights and rail offer incredible versatility for optics mounting. The large loop isn’t just for show—it’s genuinely functional with winter gloves. The 45-70 cartridge itself is a huge pro, capable of handling anything on the North American continent with the right load.
Cons: That legendary power comes with significant recoil and expensive ammunition costs per round. The tactical aesthetic isn’t for traditionalists who prefer blued steel and walnut. And with a 5-round tube capacity, you have fewer shots than in some other modern sporting rifles. Here’s the thing—you’re trading classic looks and lower upfront cost for a tool built to survive the elements and perform under pressure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use modern, high-pressure 45-70 ammunition in this rifle?
A: Yes. The modern Marlin 1895 action, especially this SBL model with its robust construction, is designed to safely handle modern “Leverevolution” and other factory loads that outperform older black powder pressure levels. Always consult your owner’s manual for specifics.
Q: Is the Picatinny rail removable to use the iron sights alone?
A: Yes, the scout rail is attached to the barrel via a mounting system that allows for removal, giving you direct access to the excellent XS Ghost Ring sights. This makes the platform highly adaptable to your specific hunt or mission.
Q: How does this compare to the Henry All-Weather side gate model?
A: Both are top-tier, stainless steel, weather-resistant 45-70 levers. The Marlin 1895SBL typically comes with the rail and ghost ring sights as standard, while the Henry often has a fiber optic front sight. The Henry features a side loading gate in addition to a tube, which some prefer. The choice often comes down to brand preference, specific features, and price point—both are excellent, so it’s about which feature set fits your use case. This model is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide, and an FFL transfer is required for firearm purchases.
For the hunter or backcountry guide who needs a dependable, powerful rifle that can shrug off rain, snow, and hard knocks, the Marlin 1895SBL represents a focused investment. It delivers specific, high-utility features without unnecessary frills. If your environment demands toughness and your targets demand authority, this lever action is built for the task.
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