I just purchased a Winchester 94 Bigbore Black shadow rifle in 444 Marlin cal. with a 20", 1 in 12 twist Barrel.What diameter hard cast bullet should I use in this gun, and will it hold up to the hot 280 gr test load's posted on this forum by Marshall. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *


(Edited by DSM at 11:22 am on Mar. 5, 2001)

DSM
Your new Black Shadow indeed will handle the 280 grain bullet loads listed, but with any data, start below the listed charge and work up prudently in your individual rifle.   You'll be amazed at what that little carbine will do!   Beware however, my experience has shown that the Winchester stock configuration can deliver some mighty recoil!

Bullet sizing would be best at .432" in your 444 Big Bore.  It, like the Marlins, has a large diameter throat,(about .4325").  Fill up the throat and they shoot superbly, the .4305" diameter bore never knows that little extra diameter bullet is even there!

Let us know what you find with that little 94BB!

God bless,

Marshall