Marlin 1895: A 2 Minute Review – Lever-action conjures up images of cowboy long-riders and scouts from bygone days. Most of us have one in our gun closet/safe/rack (Winchester Model 94 anyone?). Marlin has continued that tradition into the modern age. Nowhere is there a more evident a marriage between the lever-action and the modern age than in Marlin’s 1895 series.
This particular series has a variety of different rifles under the 1895 umbrella. The one we are focused on today is the Model 1895 22-inch barrel. It’s a beauty that packs quite a punch. And while it may look like just another gun for the collection, I’ll wager it’s more practical (and versatile!) than you think. Let’s hit the highlights.
Stock
The 1895 sports a black walnut stock with a pistol-grip style. It also has the standard rubber butt pad. The pad isn’t as thick as some newer models, but it is more than adequate for this rifle. Although, the bigger loads will still give a lot of recoil. A Mar-Shield finish makes the stock more durable and able to make it through those tough weather days in the bush.
Barrel and Magazine
A blued barrel reaches previously mentioned length of 22 inches. The 1895 has a full-length four-shot tubular magazine. With one is the chamber that makes for five rounds at the ready. A hammer block safety is equipped to make sure your firearm is secure.
Lever
The rifle has a standard loop. Some of the other models in Marlin’s 1895 series do have larger loops if this is a preference. Despite the regular sized loop, it makes for a comfortable cycling of rounds. In fact, the smooth action of the level allows for quick cycling of cartridges.
Sights
This particular model is equipped with adjustable semi-buckhorn rear sight matched with a wide-scan hooded, ramp front sight with a brass bead. It is also top receiver drilled and tapped for a scope mount. Options like the Vortex Crossfire or Diamondback are good options for this rifle. There are plenty of choices out there for your individual budgets.
Handling
With heavier loads like a 325 grain cartridge, the 1895 can really pack a wallop. However, going down in grain makes for a very comfortable shooting experience that can take on smaller game. This can be ideal for whitetail deer. You can also retain the ability to take down larger game with heavier loads, no problem. Out of the box this gun is a tack driver. With a zeroed mounted scope you are good to go.
The Verdict?
The Marlin 1895 is an amazing firearm. While it harkens back to times of old, it is securely grounded as a piece of modern technology. You can tackle both big game and smaller game like deer or hogs with ease. While some may think you are bringing a canon to a gun fight, you can make them true believers when they see the Marlin 1895 in action. Watch it punch through the brush and knock down a white-tail or stop that charging grizzly (let’s hope not!). It makes no difference to the rifle.
Richard Douglas is a firearms expert and educator. His work has appeared in large publications like The Armory Life, Daily Caller, American Shooting Journal, and more. In his free time, he reviews optics on his Scopes Field blog.
