I really like both guns. The Marlin GS is a dream to handle but the BLR also feels nice. The BLR is not nearly as nice looking but I do like the rack and pinion lever action. Very smooth to cycle. I do not reload at this time and I'm not sure that I ever will. Though it is something I am looking at more and more. The Marlin is of course 45-70 and the BLR is 450 Marlin. What are some pitfalls or things I should be on the look out for. I will say that I want a stainless gun. Let your opinions fly. I want to hear what you have to say. Thanks, John:D

My biggest concern would be ammunition availability. The 450 is a fine round by all accounts but so were other rounds which are now obsolete. One plus for the .45-70 if you don't reload is the variety of loads available. Factory Win, Rem and Federal .45-70 is loaded very mild, low recoil. Garrett, Cor-Bon, and Buffalo Bore load ammo much hotter for hunting. 450 Marlin rounds are all loaded to Max velocity (and recoil.) What it really comes down to, tho, is which rifle do You like better.
Andy

One plus for the .45-70 if you don't reload is the variety of loads available. Factory Win, Rem and Federal .45-70 is loaded very mild, low recoil. Garrett, Cor-Bon, and Buffalo Bore load ammo much hotter for hunting. 450 Marlin rounds are all loaded to Max velocity (and recoil.)

Totally agree...

Jim

Thanks Andy and Jim. I really like the variety of 45-70 ammo available to the non-reloader. My main use would be deer at or around 100 yards. The 450 seems like overkill. Gun to Gun regardless of caliber what's better?:confused:

That is an even harder question than the .450 vs. .45-70. I don't have a BLR, but I do have a 1895GS, so I am biased I guess. Both rifles offer low scope mounting, light weight and handiness. Both are offered in stainless.

In my mind, the significant advantage of the BLR is clip loading, if you cross a lot of fences, drive a vehicle to likely spots and stalk or climb into and out of a lot of blinds while you hunt, then the clip loading would be a great thing. Its not that hard to unload a Guide Gun, but definitely a point in the BLR's favor.

Advantages of the GS, traditional "look" (not so much in stainless steel), no clip to lose, lots of accessory items (scope mounts, peep sights, levers, triggers) in the aftermarket, a lot of knowledge/ information on the net to tune the rifle, easy to disassemble completely for cleaning or repair.

I don't know about the BLR, but the 1895s are incredible accurate rifles, many of the shooters can get three rounds under an inch at 100 yards.

It still comes down to which rifle YOU like.
Andy

Thanks Andy. You've hit on some good points. My first choice is the Marlin but there's someting about the Browning that keeps from deciding.

Has anyone shot a BLR chambered for the 450? That just seems like it would kick a lot more than a Marlin 95.

I would think you are correct. ThanksHas anyone shot a BLR chambered for the 450? That just seems like it would kick a lot more than a Marlin 95.

I have them both, my fav is the marlin for ease of handling, but they both shoot the same, under 1 inch with reloads. I reload the barnes 300 hollow point and get unbelievable results.

Welcome, Loup, I'm glad someone with a BLR 450 can chime in.
Andy

Do you use the same load for both? ThanksI have them both, my fav is the marlin for ease of handling, but they both shoot the same, under 1 inch with reloads. I reload the barnes 300 hollow point and get unbelievable results.