New Marlin 1895 Trapper vs 1895 SBL - Two Great New 45-70 Lever Guns From Ruger

Finally got my hands on a new Marlin 1895! The Trapper. And Clint and I are going to give close-ups and shoot both the Trapper and the SBL. Lots of details and lots of shooting. Enjoy!
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[@-o-The-Duke-o-]

I'm really glad Ruger stepped in and saved Marlin. They really seem to be bringing back quality and pouring all they can into them. Thank you Ruger!

[@TargetSuite]

Amen!

[@brunomeier1089]

After I found out that Ruger is making the new Marlin SBL, I ordered a rifle. Unfortunately, I am still waiting for it to find its way to Switzerland.

[@warmachinegaming-zf2tn]

I have the Remington made Marlin SBL. I've had it for almost a decade and I've never had an issue.

[@kerrybarnard1485]

I've become a lever guy myself, starting w/2 Rossi 92s, but hope to one day have the $$$ to step up to one of the new Ruger built Marlins. Ruger is very savvy, the AR malaise has made lever guns really sought after and they know this! Good investment on their part and for the shooting community.

[@Johanthegnarler]

Who's gonna save Ruger though? Build quality is still a little meh, but I still want this rifle.

[@andrewbayram765]

I'm in the UK. I'm putting in for a variance on my firearms licence for a 45-70. I saw one of these Marlins at a gun show receently and was quite taken by it. I have a Miroku 1874 winchester in 357. I also haver a 1916 SMLE IN 303 and another Lee Enfiled in 308. I enjoy the lever action immensely, so does my son. I'm enjoying the shooting just by eye (iron sights) more then scoped and it suits the range I go to. These videoss are immensely useful so a big thanks from over here in the UK. 👍👍

[@douglaswegener9086]

So can anyone in thr UK own a rifle, shotgun, or handgun? I live in Englewood, Colorado, and have hundreds of firearms, and I'm not sure if we are lied to about other countries?

[@seanfrank4158]

I'd prefer the matte finish over the gloss but both are beautiful rifles. I'd be happy with either one.

[@Leverguns50]

That was a really cool comparison between two really fine lever actions, good to see that Ruger did something good with them

[@TargetSuite]

Thanks! What a hoot to shoot two great guns like that!

[@wilmamcdermott3065]

I have a sbl and a guide gun along with my old one i bought in 1990 and a 26inch cowboy gun they all shoot accuratly for remlins. My jm always was accurat

[@fairlylocal7189]

I have a 1895 sbl that I bought 7-8 years ago while Remington owned marlin, the fit and finish are perfect I’ve never had a single problem with the gun at all.

[@PatRMG]

Interested in seeing the velocity difference between the two. That fireball coming from the Trapper might be telling.

[@TargetSuite]

Yes Pat, I think it's going to be a significant sacrifice in velocity to gain the handiness of the trapper. But at the end of the day a heavy bullet traveling a couple of hundred feet per second slower is still going to go through seven or eight zombies😄

[@trumpie5399]

On my handloads in the 20” Guide Gun With 350gr Speer @ 2000 fps same load in Trapper 1750 fps. The Trapper sure makes a good canoe rifle for moose hunting.

[@tedpfenninger4972]

Thanks George! Love your videos. I'm a blued steel and walnut guy and I like some weight with a rifle as big as a 45-70. Never the less, you don't have to carry one very far to appreciate a light, short rifle. It's great that al sorts of guns are available!

[@TargetSuite]

Thanks for your comment Ted. As much as I love my Winchester 1886 I would hate to have to carry that very far. But then again our soldiers during World War II carried an M1 Garand all day every day and it weighed about the same.

[@jamesellsworth9673]

The Marlin Trapper seems to be the better 'brush gun' due to its shorter barrel. I LIKE the idea of fitting a suppressor, although I suspect game animals will still detect where the danger might be.

[@johngorman4052]

Thank you guys for the comparison between those two Marlin rifles. I'm so glad Ruger took up the brand and the fit and finish is certainly worthy of the Marlin name, Ruger really has stepped up to the challenge. The .45-70 Govt. cartridge smacks the butt hard into the shoulder, not for the faint of heart!!

[@TargetSuite]

You are welcome. It was a fun project to do. And yes with high velocity loads those little guns are not for the faint of heart.

[@rooster3019]

I see someone has been working on their lever action shooting technique;. Kept the butt plate shouldered. I notice you kept your eyes down range on the target, your cheek welded to the stock between shots, and you even managed to keep your trigger hand thumb to the side for quicker action (you had to think about that last one). Thumb over the tang is probably more secure, like your guest did, but thumb to the side is quicker. Choose yer poison ;-) Next, I sure hope Ruger considers a more traditional model of this rifle; solid figured walnut with rich blued finish, octogon LLLLOOOOOONNNNNGGG barrel. And that they keep the Skinner sights. Thanks for the great video.

[@TargetSuite]

Thanks for watching! I think we have the same wishlist!

[@chipsterb4946]

Rooster +1,000 on a 22-26 inch barrel, full or half octagon, full length magazine tube, blued with walnut furniture. Please Ruger .. PLEASE!

[@brianklamer3328]

The SBL will be my go to when purchasing a 45-70. I lie the rail along with the peep sight, would be perfect for a fixed 2 or 4 power scope. Thanks for another great video!

[@jimd1968]

This is one of the best videos on these two beast of rifles.

[@theleveractionhunter]

Great video George! I had an awesome time shooting and filming with you. I can’t wait to do “round two” with the 1895’s suppressed!

[@TargetSuite]

Hi Clint. It was great to shoot content with you. Sorry it's taking me so long to get through the comments but you know we were busy this weekend at the event. As you can tell from the comments a lot of folks are looking for chronograph data and other things so a follow-up is a must!

[@A.G.798]

Wow, thank you for this Video ❤ and the two very nice Rifles from New Marlin 1895 SBL and Trapper in Cal. 45/70,fantastic.

[@Jhollywood3698]

So glad ruger stepped in and seem to be bringing quality back to Marlin , Both of these are excellent rifles Great video

[@TargetSuite]

Thanks!

[@texasfarmer3367]

Thanks for the video, George. I’m hoping to see a Marlin 1894 in .357 coming soon.

[@Tex_I_Can]

Yes please!? I wouldn't mind one in 44 magnum as well.

[@ricktaylor5744]

I'm quite sure that they would out sell even the great 45-70 . The pistol caliber carbine is a great hunting rifle. Both the.357 & the 44 mag. Out to 75 yard's or so they're dandy for deer. And more fun to shoot on the range .

[@TargetSuite]

@Texas Farmer I'm looking forward to the pistol calibers as well. Thanks for your comment!

[@TargetSuite]

@New Tex_I_Can that has always been number one on my list from the new Marlins.

[@TargetSuite]

I think you are right. But I know the square bolt 1894 is more difficult to manufacturer. So it made sense for them to start with the 1895 / 336 round Bolt models.

[@OGsDangerShow]

Another great video, George. Excellent job. I have the 1895 SBL but now I’m thinking I might need to add that Trapper because I have more money than brains. Stay safe down there. -OG

[@TargetSuite]

Thanks OG! My son and I just left the NRA show and had to run the gauntlet of protesters. But we're safe now😄

[@glawtonmoore]

I agree with the pairing! It’s important to bridge generations! I’m supporting your channel! Oh yeah! The gun talk hit all the right points!

[@AlternateAlien]

I got the 1895 sbl, was skeptical spending so much on a gun, but I'm glad I did! It's a gem in my opinion.

[@TargetSuite]

Gem is right! All of the new Marlin lever guns are fantastic but that sbl is in a league of its own.

[@frankwright5528]

Congrats on another excellent presentation of interesting hardware that hasn't yet made it to the corner hardware. I'm impressed that Ruger actually seems to have improved an American standard. (How can something like that occur today?! Recently (ok, the last forty years or so) I have come to appreciate levers, especially Marlins, though my newest is from the 80s. (I even house and feed two with those ridiculous 'critical shot interruptor' buttons.) No stainless yet, but yours are very appealing, indeed. That high polish may be the best I've seen on commercial production. Criticisms: Absence (for now?) of traditional longer tube options, and especially being force fed those 'Big Loops'. Pure senseless Hollywood and a stain on the eschutcheon of The Great John Wayne! Who twirl-cocks their levergun from horseback!? The best that can be said is that, with training, they can be manipulated almost as well as the system they replaced. (Rant endeth.) I'll add my request for a chrono comparison, plus some accuracy info. Again, Sir, you have a great channel! We appreciate your efforts.

[@TargetSuite]

Thanks! I'm not a big fan of big loops either!

[@TheJonnieredeyez]

You were correct Sir. This video made this old man smile.

[@beep-beep]

It’s neat to see this old cartridge come back around into the spotlight. Creeping up on 200 years old now, but still has a lot of value for big game hunting even today. It’s terminal ballistics are interesting, it’s a usually a very hot load but the size and flattened shape of the round creates a sort of “rainbow arc”, in which it rises at a certain distance and falls short of other later cartridges like 30-06 and .308. But it packs an incredible punch of around 3000lbs generally, and is very easy to reload due to its lack of a bottleneck. I’d been reading on it for years, so it’s neat to see it getting recognition. If I could pony up the cash, I’d have a Henry… but there aren’t many “budget options” around for a good old fashioned lever-action. They won the west!

[@TargetSuite]

It has had an amazing Resurgence over the last decade or two. And if you keep your mileage short it's a very capable hunting cartridge . . . as you point out it packs a lot of punch!

[@richardelliott9511]

Thanks for the show! I have a 95 Cowboy II and a 94 in 44mag both with 24" barrels. I have always been interested in the relative power between the two. Now more than ever, with partial thanks to you, since the rounds taylored for 44mag rifles have come on the market. Love what you do!

[@TargetSuite]

Thanks! You are the second comment to mention the 45-70 and 44 mag. I think I need to make a vid! 😉

[@ronnieskaggs8148]

I have an 1895 Marlin 4570 and a Henry big boy 44 magnum. Love them both the 44 magnum ammo from Federal hammer down is 270 grain bullet and 1715 FPS this is close to the 4570 ballistics. The Henry has a smooth action and holds 10 + 1. The Marlin 1895 4570 holds only 4 + 1 and kicks harder but the ammo variation is very wide from about 300 grain bullets at 1300 FPS to 500+ that can only be fired from certain rifles. Both are excellent rifles.

[@T410ce]

I bought one of the last 1895 SBL’s made by Remlin, from Cabela’s. It is a terrific rifle with zero defects and shot @ 1.75” group @ 50 yards out of the box. The only thing I wished it had was a fiber optic front sight.

[@twp616]

I have always favored longer barrels, for the ballistic advantage and increased round capacity. Personal choice

[@TargetSuite]

Mine too. My purchase of the Trapper was just to give you guys a look at what Marlin has available now. I hope to continue to cover all the new models for a while as the iconic brand rises from the ashes.

[@dave-d-grunt]

Early 2000’s GG is 4 + 1. Later they extended the tube to 5 + 1. JM Marlin

[@sparky_-mf2cs]

In 45-70 you dont gain much speed from a couple inches of added barrel length. And in real world test. ( paul harrells meat target😂 RIP paul) ...slight barrel increases made little to mostly no difference at all in effectiveness

[@gabbyhayes1568]

Man, that’d be a tough choice. I like the Trapper’s satin finish better, but I think I’d opt for the SBL’s longer barrel and capacity.

[@richardross4996]

I just got the trapper, finish is great, no glare. Shoots amazing

[@gabbyhayes1568]

@@richardross4996 I have a “JM” Marlin Cowboy in 45-70 I bought new in the early 2000’s for $600. The price of these new ones is just insane to me.

[@Tex_I_Can]

Awesome video! It's great to see Ruger really beginning to get these out the door. If I had to choose it would be the 16" barrel with the satin finish. I'm anxiously waiting for the pistol calibers.

[@TargetSuite]

I'm with you. I love these guns, but I'm really just biding my time until the 1894s roll out.

[@johnandlorna]

Do you have any idea when the new Ruger made ones will be in 44?

[@chipsterb4946]

@@johnandlorna “soon” tm Just kidding - haven’t heard anything but the 1894 in 44 Magnum can’t come fast enough. I have an older, pre-cross bolt safety 1894 in that chambering and love it. So handy, so versatile.

[@woofie8647]

I have the 1894 CSBL .357 Magnum they released a couple of years ago. I love it. Looks just like these.

[@comiketiger]

Great guns. Thanks for sharing. They look to be getting made right, now! 👍👍👍🙂🙂

[@TargetSuite]

Yep. I think they have got this planned out well.

[@Mr_Mojo_Risin]

Ruger did a fantastic job bringing back what Remington destroyed. Sadly Marlin was driven to sell but thank God for Ruger. Great video!

[@TargetSuite]

Thanks. Yes without Ruger I'm afraid the Marlin brand would have disappeared.

[@Prepare2Survive]

I can't wait for the 357 magnum to come out.

[@TargetSuite]

Amen! The 1894s can't come soon enough!

[@blindjoe8300]

Don’t thisn shoot bigr

[@Prepare2Survive]

@@blindjoe8300 Yes, it shoots bigger and heavier projectiles, but I handload my own ammo and 357 mag brass is 50 times easier to find for free at my local shooting ranges on the ground than 45-70 brass.

[@michaelhodges8312]

Starting to use Buffalo Bore 350JFN 45-70 Govt Magnum in my Trapper for bear defense. Also equipped with the Comet muzzle brake. Winchester 300JHP for self defense.

[@InGratitudeIam]

Thanks for saving me the time, money and neck ache! What about the thickness of the forends? I know the Trapper's is thinner than the previous Remlin. I believe that rear sight is licensed from Ashley, but I could be mistaken. For hunting, some jurisdictions might have a minimum barrel length requirement of 18". As to ballistics, the "rule of thumb" is about 50fps/inch. Buffalo Bore seems to alter that universe. It will be interesting to see if you have any money left (and functioning nerve endings) to do some chronograph tests. Thanks for taking the time!

[@TargetSuite]

Glad to save you the misery! Both these guns have the thinner for ends and I like them. And yes I do have some Buffalo Bore ammo and plans to do chronograph work. Clint and I have been talkin about when we can get together for that.

[@paulcupach8196]

You must be reading my mind d. I was looking for a video just like this! Well Done!

[@TargetSuite]

Thank you Paul!

[@kennethhowell1272]

Be interesting to see a comparison between a Remington Marlin and the new Ruger Marlins. For a hunting application, the matte finish would be much better. Years ago I owned a JM Marlin 95, which had a 22" Micro-groove round barrel and a straight grip stock. The gun was as smooth as glass and I still miss that gun.

[@TargetSuite]

Kenneth I plan to do that very comparison. Just need to get my hand on a late model Remington made Marlin.

[@1895gunner]

George, well done as usual. I got to the range with my new trapper today and experienced a problem which I shot a note off immediately to the team back at Ruger - waiting for a reply. Glad to see yours working so well! I'm not discouraged, and I love my SBL. I'm sure we'll get this Trapper tuned up shortly!

[@TargetSuite]

Thank you Scott. I met with the Ruger/Marlin team today at the En-are-ay event. Even spoke with Mr. Kiloy for 10 or 15 minutes. Great people, all!

[@ChuckTruitt]

@@TargetSuite Ha, "En-are-ay event," it's a shame it has to be like that!!! They haven't outlawed cars because of drunk drivers... yet.

[@davidchrist428]

What was the problem? It's not a secret.......do tell.....

[@DouglasPrice-p9q]

... lots of muzzle flash tells me the MV is taking a serious hit with a 3" shorter barrel ... it would be interesting to compare chronograph results for these 2 rifles

[@henryherman9113]

Both nice levers...I have the 1895 trapper in the 45/70 Bought it in 2018 the last of the marlins. It is awsome with no issues what so ever.A big fan of the 45/70

[@TargetSuite]

Yes it was good to see the Remington folks work out the kinls from those horrible early years. I wouldn't be concerned at all with buying one of those late model "Remlins"

[@derrickedwardsu430]

You can also unload the rugers through the load gate by pushing it in .

[@waynebowman2315]

Excellent video on my absolute favorite style guns and my favorite caliber, thanx for posting

[@TargetSuite]

You are welcome. It was a great treat to get to shoot these two great guns!

[@billbright1755]

The venerable .45/70 government chambering. A wide variety of projectiles and propellent choices available to the savvy hand loader and marksman. The Marlin 95 platform a supreme firearm and in the hands of an expert rifleman a very capable big game powerhouse. Mine is a 1972 issue and with its micro grove rifling has excellent accuracy at all practical ranges. Lever guns hone in from action cycle use and my Marlin operates like on roller bearings after fifty years use.

[@DouglasPrice-p9q]

... The 18.5" bbl Marlin Guide Gun I find to be the best compromise between compactness, portability and ballistics ... I'm getting an average MV of 1910 fps with the factory Hornady 365 grain LeverEvolution FTX ammo (advertised MV 2000 fps)

[@jamesmcclendon1203]

sexy guns, but watching you both cycle the large loop and seeing you both have issues with it causes me to wonder if they will offer a standard loop.

[@TargetSuite]

For whatever reason, the public is demanding larger loops on guns like these. But I'm assuming Marlin's more traditional offerings will have a traditional lever Style. I personally do not like the large loop lever.

[@theleveractionhunter]

The large loop was designed for people who hunt up north and wear heavy winter gloves. For us here in the South I prefer a medium size loop like the one made by Ranger Point Precision. To me it is the perfect size!

[@davidlane9724]

Honestly I just like the looks of the bigger loop

[@HarryPalmer-P.I.]

Agree might be just something to get used to.

[@Capt_McNugget]

Got myself a 1985 black knight.. Can't wait to try her out

[@mitchellmiller7717]

It's always amazed me that the world thinks that big loop on the lever is the better way to go. To many people have seen the rifleman. But the fact is the normal lever is hands down the best and most efficient way to go. It showed All over your video!!!! And you can say all day - I just have to get used to it. They are trash but those of us that know better are now stuck in a world of D. A.

[@TargetSuite]

I'll never get used to a big loop, because like you I don't think they are functional. But they certainly are in style and there's no getting around that.

[@mitchellmiller7717]

@@TargetSuite Styles come and go like the wind. The tried and true withstand the lack of intelligence that seems to be seeping into each new generation these day's. Do they actually think they are the first to think about a bigger loop?? I don't know for a fact but I am sure it was looked at before and set to the side because the lack of functionality .

[@belliott538]

I see numerous “Big Loop” replacement parts for the Ruger/Marlin 1895. Reckon anyone will come out with a Standard Size Loop replacement?

[@Hammer.Paladin]

I happen to have number 140 of 500 ever made JM Marlin Stamped 1895SDG "Special Davidson Guide" limited edition rifles that has yet to be fired. I keep thinking I'm going to take it out and shoot it some day but it is such a beautiful firearm and being a collectors limited edition rifle I just haven't been able to bring myself to fire it. It is all original and in 100% mint condition. A real beauty. And being an original JM Marlin you just aren't going to find one of these very easily. The last time I've seen one of the other of the 500 built it was missing some of the original parts and the wood was in terrible condition. I've had a couple museums ask if I would consider selling but I've yet to decide. It's such a rare firearm that I can't decide which way to go. But those 2 you have in this video are pretty darn nice. It's great to see that Ruger stayed true to their dedication of quality and brought back some really nice looking firearms. Remington drove the Marlin name into the ground. They took what was a real work of art and ruined the 1895. Thank you Ruger for resurrecting this great firearm. If you would like a few pictures of my 1895SDG just let me know. Great video and very nice 1895's.

[@TheCowboyfromhell87]

Great comparison! I got the new SBL already and love it, but that trapper is also calling to me. If it had a straight stock and smaller lever I'd definitely be actively searching for one. Can't wait to see what other modesl they come out with next.

[@TargetSuite]

I'm looking forward to a standard lever design as well. I understand the demand is there for the big loop lovers but that is not my first choice by far.

[@dave-d-grunt]

I like the straight stock also. The standard lever with a pars cord wrap is perfect. 1895GG

[@jamesjaquinto4560]

I pick up my SBL today so excited!

[@Tonyblaine73]

Great video on two nice rifles, thanks.

[@scottsever7656]

Great video It was down to earth, and covered all the bases

[@gungriffen]

I'm on the fence. I want a long range 45-70 full length Rifle, but I want one to carry camping (not hunting) but as a self defense Bear Rifle and the Trapper really fills that role better.

[@TargetSuite]

I'm on the fence too. I love these guns because they are a symbol of the Resurgence of the Marlin brand. And a high quality Resurgence to boot. But my ideal gun is as you described a full-length rifle and for me, preferably with a walnut stock and blued finish. Thanks for your comment, and thank you for watching!

[@Rsford1193]

I have the full size. It's still a very handy gun. Definitely compact and maneuverable enough for my taste

[@foilist1]

Wow, I like them both. But I think I might take the SBL simply b/c it’s longer and can load one more cartridge.

[@TargetSuite]

Thanks for watching. It's kind of a toss-up but since I bought the Trapper I'm going to love it😉

[@jpcquadnet]

@@TargetSuite Me too

[@lonnieeichele2498]

Nice comparison and like others would be interested to see velocity differences. I've got 2 Marlin levers a Cowboy 45-70 with octagon barrel. I love it. The other is a 336 338 Hornady Express. I haven't really got that dialed in. Now it's gonna be a challenge. Hornady doesn't sound like they'll be making any Flex-tip .338 any time soon. I did find dies and a Nosler 200 grain bullet. Now the quest for a proper powder. Keep up the good work George!

[@TargetSuite]

Thank you! I will be breaking out the Labradar for the next video and we will compare velocity between these two and a longer Barrel 45-70. Thanks for watching and thanks for your comment!

[@thetraveler5798]

Love them LeverGuns ..! 👍🌟👍

[@TargetSuite]

Amen!

[@michaelhodges8312]

Like that Aggie ring Clint! I’m class of ‘84. Nice video!

[@atomross13]

I would get both! Both look great!

[@royseifert3078]

If only I could find $1,200 I'd have one of the SBL models. My birthday is this Sunday, maybe my wife will be good to me! Nice to see a guest on your channel, George.

[@TargetSuite]

Thank you for the comment, Roy. It was fun working with Clint. He's got a ton of love for traditional leverguns.

[@MTwoodsrunner]

Nice !...though I don't know about them oversized loops and muzzle break...especially at a range...LOL...thanks for sharing!...woods

[@TargetSuite]

Between you and me and the fence post, I'm not a fan of the big Loops at all. But that is the style that is in demand, at least for now. I think I mentioned in another comment that I had never worn gloves too thick to fit inside a standard lever profile.

[@johnshoureas1629]

Great video. I like the dark laminations and satin stainless.

[@TargetSuite]

👍👍

[@wayneg5697]

Yours is one of my favorite gun channels. Informative with zero ego. I wonder if you like the Marlin over the Henry X-model?

[@TargetSuite]

My Henry X model was a quality firearm. And I would put it on par, for this style of gun, with the SBL or Trapper. But I have always been a Marlin fan and all things being equal, continue to lean that way😉

[@langleyj8199]

I owned both of Marlin versions. I kept the SBL. Only because I like the longer barrel. Both are great. Looking forward to seeing the Ruger versions. They look great.

[@TargetSuite]

So far so good. And I watched a lengthy video that showed some of their factory production. They definitely have quality control in place. So I am confident that these rifles are representative of the kind of quality we'll see in the future.

[@bx7993]

I did the exact same , I had trapper and sbl , sold trapper . My reasons being Trapper was harder to shoot way too much kick and not acurate at all for my liking . Sbl had more acuracy and the extra 3 inches just gave it a better feel and balance to the rifle . And also nice to get the extra velocity . That being said the 45-70 is not a super accurate cartridge anyhow.

[@involvementinc7748]

I would have liked to see the chronograph difference between the two barrel lengths. That might be a real deciding factor...

[@TargetSuite]

If you will email me at [e-mail] I'll share the Excel spreadsheet data with you.

[@exodortch]

Faster Powder selection will make up for any velocity loss in the shorter barrel.

[@ronlafitte6864]

Great video and fine rifles! Where did you find the ammo? HaHa! I love my two JM Marlins, one with a 22 inch barrel and the CB with its 26 inch barrel. I would love having the stainless model from Ruger , but hopefully in either 44 magnum or 357 magnum. I think that would round out my Marlin collection quite well!

[@TargetSuite]

Thanks for your comment! Clint actually provided ammo for the video.

[@ronlafitte6864]

@@TargetSuite I would bet money on the quality of the Ruger rifles being much better than the Remlins were!!

[@theleveractionhunter]

I believe this ammo was found at Academy or Walmart. Cant remember exactly?

[@Mj-CWO4]

I now have the Trapper model and love it, fits me perfectly. It would have been nice to get actual velocity readings.

[@michaelparker3105]

Hi guys, not a bad review and thank you for the time invested to share your thoughts. What would have been nice finish to this vid is to see a precision shot grouping difference between the two barrel lengths. They are already both short carbines, however would the three inch barrel length lead to better projectile accuracy over the longer distances? I know none of these are long range rifles but

[@semtech30]

You both missed shift's because of those large loop leavers. Meant for wearing gloves to fill the gap. I don't like shooting with gloves so stuck with the standard lever. I also chose the 20 in. barrel to get a full revolution on the bullet before it leaves the barrel. It may benefit accuracy. Lot's of hitting power in these guns for sure. Thanks for the demo.

[@TargetSuite]

You are welcome. Thanks for your comment. And to be sure I do not like these large loops. People talk about needing them for wearing gloves and I say bunk! Maybe for Arctic mittens😉

[@JosephTMeiroseIV]

@@TargetSuite The large loop is perfect for, and meant, for Alaska climate as self defense weapon. Hardly enough time to counter a Grizzly charge already but to remove heavy gloves first would be impossible. Right weapon for the right application.

[@dylanhayden8825]

I cringed when you put your finger in that loading gate. My Remlin SBL took the tip of my finger off doing that, razor sharp inside there. Good to see Ruger addressed that!

[@TargetSuite]

Believe me, I did that off-camera gently several times to make sure I wasn't going to show blood in the video. It's just a testimony to the fact that they are tumble deburring all of their receivers and other parts that hands can touch.

[@phillipmarlow5267]

Both truly beautiful rifles. I've found myself with 3 45-70's now. 1 1865 and 2 Henry's. I'm just waiting for the Marlin 444 dark for my last purchase.

[@TargetSuite]

I'm waiting on the 444 also. I bought dies and Brass six months ago in anticipation😄

[@phillipmarlow5267]

@@TargetSuite LOL, I bought a new Hornady Progressive as well. I've already got a 444 and have been reloading for it for a while. Been using an old Lyman Hollywood Turret press my dad and I used from back in the early 70's. The Henry 45-70 Dark is a really well made rifle and as it tends to happen, is my favorite now.

[@Simon-hf3lw]

You are a 100% correct I almost cried when I see them rifles Beautiful 👍 ❤️

[@TargetSuite]

Amen!

[@saigudbai]

Probably the Trapper for the shorter barrel. Since I'd just be using it for a short range rifle, maybe Grizz protection. Put a short rail on it and a reflex site possibly.

[@ChuckTruitt]

I have a Henry Big Boy 45-70 and love it, otherwise, I'd be looking for that Trapper! All I shoot is my 405 g reloads, and they are stout with 51 grains of 3031. -Gunny T

[@TargetSuite]

Yep. Stout! Thanks as always for your comment!

[@theblitz6838]

Nice rifles, I'm not a fan of peep sights so the SBL would be the obvious choice for me. Rugger outdid themselves with those two, absolute beauties.

[@lacrossed55]

Thank you for this video. This has helped me decide which gun I can't get.

[@srtwentydet]

I wish they had chronographed the same round through each rifle to see the real velocity difference. Maybe do a video with chronograph results between the two and penetration tests between the two to see if the barrel length is worth it or not.

[@richardruiz6972]

Great video very nice rifles.... wow that is a big kick....im going to check to see what other calibers are available

[@TargetSuite]

That is only available in 4570. But there are some mild recoiling loads out there. Hornady has a new subsonic round that is very pleasant to shoot and yet still very powerful.

[@polymath5119]

Thanks for showing these George. We have a late production Remlin Trapper that's well made, but the idea of having a Ruger-made Marlin is very appealing. Hopefully they eventually produce the 39a.

[@TargetSuite]

Thanks for your comment, I talked to the product manager at the NRA event here in Houston last weekend and discussed, among other things, the 39a. They are talking about it but just don't know what kind of response they would get for what would certainly be an expensive 22 lever gun. I think it would sell like crazy, but what do I know😉

[@trumpie5399]

Ruger 1895 priced above what most can afford. Excellent quality but overpriced.

[@johnconway8492]

I always wanted to see a stainless 39a. Actually , a stainless laminated 39a with 16 inch barrel would be sweet. And let’s not forget a loop lever. It would be so cool and actually cost less to manufacture than a blue steel model.And how about that package in .17M2 or 17HMR!

[@JoseyWales44s]

Beautiful rifle. Does the enlarged loop cause issues with slipping while working the action? I noticed a couple of slips while levering the action quickly. I have a number of lever actions but none with the large loop.

[@TargetSuite]

I'm definitely not a fan of the bigger loop levers.

[@trumpie5399]

Changed my Trapper Lever big loop to the standard lever like it much better. I can work the action faster with no slack.

[@OrieCipollaro]

That’s a Big damn bullet!

[@TargetSuite]

Yes it is. But I look at it this way. As I become more fumble fingered with age the 45-70 is easier to handle😄

[@easttexan2933]

morning George. must say, both of those are outstanding pieces. I really like the matt finish. did the muzzle break/flash suppressor tame the flash any? the days of shooting a 45-70 for fun are long gone for me lol. Is that range near Houston? I didn't recognize it right off. Is it the one off 290? As far as the Skinner peep goes, not going to be able to fine tune it for great accuracy but can get it close at 50. Very limited elevation adjustment on it. Have you done a sight in video on your gun before? Good video.

[@TargetSuite]

Great questions Max!I will work on a follow-up vid this week and see if I can answer them.

[@TargetSuite]

Btw, that was "filmed" at a private gun club north of Houston.

[@easttexan2933]

@@TargetSuite very nice facility from what I saw. Definitely not Carter's Country.

[@dittman2564]

Skinner calls that front site with the white line, that is on the Trapper, the "Bear Buster". I purchased one for my Henry X-Model 45-70 gov't.

[@ltgreen6626]

That trapper model, I would install a Ranger Point butt stock take down screw, then take it down, roll it up in a 24" long wool blanket,canvas tarp bedroll, throw some leather straps around it, use the rifle sling as a shoulder strap. Add a couple boxes of ammo,hunting knife, lighter,etc. to the bedroll, then use it as a grab and go for the truck,camping,etc.

[@TargetSuite]

Yes it would be a perfect candidate for that.

[@hettro-cv6082]

Very interesting ! I was hoping the quality was there. Looks like it is.

[@TargetSuite]

Yep. These are nice guns. Probably still a few little kinks to work out but Ruger is extremely sensitive about getting it right.

[@sifilmaker]

Nice video, Im just wondering, it seems like the lever working is little difficult. I love the Henry golden boy and Mares. love them both. Smooth lever, the SPL would be my choice based on this video.

[@lettingthebearout7528]

Love them. Would love them even more if the laminate was brown vs grey and you could get them blued. Basically I want the Guide Gun appearance with ghost ring or peep sights from the SBL or Trapper. Would also love it if they made this setup available in the 30-30. Anyway, I’ll never sell my lever actions, only buy more. That muzzle break looks very cool.

[@conanlive3784]

Pretty sure the 1895 SBL comes in wood furniture and blued metal as well as this all-weather version.

[@clutchcargo1239]

Lol, get them both if you can. If I could only have one of these 45-70's, I'd get the laminated 1895 SBL because it's prettier. If I needed something a little handier and more economical to shoot, I'd get the 1894 SBL in 44mag. It's finished, just like the 1895 SBL with the laminated stock and shiny finish. Ruger has done a good job on all these Marlins. The classic 1894's are also beautifully done. I'm thinking I'd like one of all of them... .357, .44mag, and 45-70's... It's just money.😁

[@kygreenskeeper8326]

I absolutely gotta have one of these... Best looking lever action I have ever seen..

[@collinbarry7139]

Well you am a trapper type shooter!! The short barrel trapper works on Hog hunting, if you have done this you will understand!! I have a Guide Rifle from the lake 90’s in 45/70 it has an 18” barrel and compensated in the barrel! Sweet shooting heavy 405 gr and my favorite reloads!!

[@TargetSuite]

I have killed quite a few Hogs here on the place. They were mostly at close range and mostly at night. That's a different kind of hunting.

[@jimilee8979]

Thanks Guys........... yay for Ruger

[@riverrivers250]

Real pretty guns.... but do you think with the shorter trapper barrel 16" it would have a down side with Velocity and Range??? With the already slow fps 4570..... Vs the Standard 20" barrel

[@chadmcginney1600]

Been trying to get a hold of an SBL, but I suppose the quantities available are limited. I have one on order and can’t wait to get it!!!

[@TargetSuite]

Right now Ruger only has one production line up and running making Marlins. And last I heard it was currently making the Trappers. With other models coming up soon I am guessing it will be months at least before they get around to the SBL again. But I also heard they were working to get more lines up and running. The from what they've shown so far they're going to take it slow and at those lines will come up to speed very slowly.

[@robertkovalak1368]

I just picked up the trapper from a local store. Lucky to find one at a retail/msrp price instead of a resale for 400-600$ more. They had 2 in stock. As soon as I saw it on their website I rushed over as soon as they opened. I've seen custom builds on gunbroker asking 3500$

[@chadmcginney1600]

@@robertkovalak1368 enjoy it!! Still waiting for mine to come in! I actually found a Henry 45-70 side gate at a local store and bought it. It was the only one in the entire state at the time. It’s an awesome gun and work of art! It shoots awesomely too!!! Hopefully, the SBL will come soon! Next is learning to reload the 45-70!

[@hutehund9519]

Oh yeah!!! More with this one please.

[@TargetSuite]

I'll be doing some accuracy work with the Trapper this week. Hope to post that on Friday.

[@nardvt89]

Nice job guys. I enjoyed the review.

[@staccatoglock]

Got VERY lucky and snagged one of these for MSRP😎🍻🥳

[@TargetSuite]

That's fantastic! I've seen a few for MSRP around here as well. Thanks for sharing with us!

[@jodenthal719]

I had one of the last 1895 SBL’s before they stopped. Someone offered me crazy money for it so I sold it. I’m going to be picking up that trapper for sure. Also could you check them with the chronograph?

[@TargetSuite]

Yes! I already told Clint we would do that in the nectar video.

[@jodenthal719]

@@TargetSuite awesome!

[@scottydouglass1892]

first. I had the cowboy and it was to heavy to hunt with. But a 20 inch would make more sense. Too bad you can't get them with an octagon barrel.

[@woodworm3615]

What brand Muzzle Break was that? I picked up the SBL. Love lever actions. Simple to clean and use. Thanks guys. Weather looked perfect there for plinking.

[@joebarrett5310]

Nice video George and Clint. Would love to see you slide a Henry brass side gate 45-70 into a comparison with these two. That Trapper looks very nice, as did the SBL.

[@TargetSuite]

Thanks for the suggestion. Maybe we can work that in a future video.

[@deangerger8190]

Beautiful guns like both of them

[@virgilcain8152]

Ruger Marlin! 2 great names in firearms! I own 4 JM Marlins, 1 45/70 and 3 30/30's!

[@brianlee6849]

I like the darker laminate on the trapper but I would choose the SBL but it's a close decision both are great 👍. It would be interesting to see velocity difference? Thank you

[@TargetSuite]

Clint and I are talking about a follow-up video now with velocity comparisons. I suspect there is going to be a substantial difference.

[@brianlee6849]

@@TargetSuite Yes I think you are right especially depending on the powder used. If you do the video include your 86 with it's longer barrel for fun. Have you done any accuracy test yet? I've heard these Ruger made marlins are very accurate one review claimed a average of 1.25 over a wide range of ammo and groups. I recently watched a Ruger/Marlin factory tour and Ruger really seems to have brought back Marlin to a whole nother level. Thank you 👍

[@CHenry1951]

Thanks for sharing, I better start saving !!!!

[@TargetSuite]

Lots more models coming from Marlin. It's just going to take time.