Description
The Winchester M94 Short Rifle 450 Marlin 20″ Barrel Grade 1 Walnut Stock is a modern iteration of the classic lever-action, chambered in the powerful .450 Marlin cartridge. It’s built for hunters who need a hard-hitting, fast-handling rifle for dense timber or brush, where shots are close and targets are large. This rifle bridges the gap between traditional lever-gun handling and modern big-bore stopping power, offering a proven platform for North America’s toughest game.
Key Features
- .450 Marlin Chambering: Delivers massive energy for elk, moose, and bear at short to medium ranges.
- 20-Inch Barrel: Provides a balanced, quick-pointing profile ideal for hunting in thick cover.
- Grade 1 American Walnut Stock: Classic look and durable feel with a straight-grip configuration.
- Rebounding Hammer & Tang Safety: Updated safety features for secure carry and handling.
- Traditional Lever-Action: Fast, reliable cycling that’s second nature for experienced woodsmen.
Specifications & Details
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Caliber | .450 Marlin |
| Barrel Length | 20 inches |
| Overall Length | 39 inches (approx.) |
| Weight | Approx. 7.5 lbs |
| Magazine Capacity | 4+1 rounds |
| Stock | Grade 1 American Walnut |
This rifle is drop-in ready for your next hunt. The action is smooth from the factory, requiring no gunsmithing to achieve reliable function. The .450 Marlin cartridge, developed as a joint venture between Hornady and Marlin, pushes a 325-grain bullet at over 2200 fps—that’s serious power in a compact, fast-handling package. At a total length around 39 inches, it maneuvers through a treestand or brush blind without snagging. Here’s the thing—when it comes to stopping a charging boar or anchoring an elk in its tracks, you want a cartridge that hits with authority, and the .450 Marlin delivers exactly that.
Who This Rifle Is For
This Winchester is built for the practical hunter. It’s for the Missouri whitetail hunter who ventures into bear country, or the hunter pursuing elk in the dense timber of the Rockies. It’s ideal for anyone who values a fast second shot over extreme long-range capability. If your hunting scenarios involve shots inside 150 yards against large, tough game, this rifle makes a compelling argument. The price point of $1049.88 positions it as a serious working tool, not a safe queen. It ships to Missouri and compliant US states, ready for the field.
Pros & Cons
Pros: Immense stopping power in a compact, pointable platform. The lever-action is incredibly fast for follow-up shots compared to a bolt gun. The classic walnut and blue steel construction offers timeless aesthetics and durability. Its 20-inch barrel provides a good balance between velocity and maneuverability.
Cons: The .450 Marlin has significant recoil—it’s not a plinking round. Ammunition cost and availability can be a challenge compared to mainstream calibers. The traditional iron sights are effective, but mounting optics requires a gunsmith or specific scout-style scope base, like those from XS Sight Systems.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can this rifle handle modern .450 Marlin ammunition from brands like Hornady?
A: Absolutely. This modern M94 is engineered specifically for the pressures and performance of contemporary .450 Marlin loads, including the potent Hornady LeverEvolution ammunition which improves ballistic performance.
Q: Is the .450 Marlin suitable for deer hunting in Missouri?
A: While it is certainly powerful enough, it’s overkill for typical whitetail deer. This cartridge is better suited for larger game like bear, elk, or moose, or for hunters in areas where dangerous game is a concern.
Q: How does the .450 Marlin compare to the .45-70 Government?
A: The .450 Marlin operates at higher pressures, offering slightly better velocity and a flatter trajectory with similar bullet weights. However, .45-70 has a wider variety of available ammunition, including milder factory loads. The M94 in .450 Marlin is optimized for maximum factory performance.
This Winchester M94 Short Rifle combines legacy reliability with modern big-bore power. It’s a purpose-driven tool for the hunter who needs definitive results in close quarters. See if this hard-hitting lever action fits your needs at firearms-missouri.com.
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