Why Is the 30-30 Still With Us?

[@samuelrosenbalm]

It's still around because it's an excellent all-purpose weapon. Accurate in the brush and powerful enough to drop anything that moves. The lever action 30-30 is a real classic.

[@GeorgiaBoy1961]

Not only is the cartridge a time-tested classic, the rifles that are famous for firing it are also, namely the Winchester and Marlin lever-guns. The 30-30 embodies the aphorism "Don't let the perfect be the enemy of the good." Why? Because it possesses adequate power to do what it is asked to do, without fanfare and hype - and it is chambered in fast-handling, handy lever-action carbines which work well with a scabbard on horseback or from a pick-up gun rack. Many ranchers, cowboys and farmers keep a lever-gun near at hand to drive off predators. Sure, there are newer and maybe more-potent options available, but for many hunters who won't be called upon to take their white-tail from more than 100 yards away, the venerable 30-30 is perfectly fine for the job and leaves nothing to be desired. Don't fix what isn't broken.

[@williambeglen4771]

Very handy if shit hits the fan.

[@RaderizDorret]

Another advantage is that the .30-30 comes in a format that is naturally ambidextrous which makes it very appealing to southpaws like me.

[@williambeglen4771]

@@RaderizDorret same here. I have the left thumb knob on the hammer.

[@williambeglen4771]

Look for the Hornady 210 grain ballistics tip rounds. Rivals the 308. Rubber tips. So the skinny points don't set off the primers in the magazine tube.

[@WatDaMattaForYou]

I'm 73, and still partial to the 30-30 Winchester lever action. Great short rifle for woods and brush in Pa.

[@Grognarthebarb]

We have one just for the thick brush here in sw-PA

[@outdoorfreedom9778]

So am I. My first 30/30 was the Glenfield Marlin, cost me about $100.00. I finally got the Winchester. It was my Pig Killer until I gave it to my Son In Law. Never got used again!! Now I have a 7mm Rolling Block but at 73 it's a lot of weight to carry! Shoots very well though!

[@saikotikgunman]

From northern PA here, and a .30-30 killed my first deer, a running shot a little south of 200 yards at the edge of a cornfield. Years later, I bought my first deer rifle of my own, and went with a Marlin 336, in 30-30. It's the gun in the rack that's always got a couple rounds in the tube in case of bobcats, coyotes, or poachers, too.

[@crowpile4638]

@@saikotikgunman northern alberta here, the winchester 30-30 killed me two wall hanger whitetail bucks.

[@johnsellers2999]

Michael really for poachers too. Sometimes a poached animal is kinda ok in certain situations. Not that I would poach an animal but just saying,hungry and desperate just saying

[@ffwilver77]

On a Christmas morning when I was 12, I found a great present under the tree. My Dad bought me a 1894 Winchester 30-30. 41 years later that 'lady' is still my standard deer rifle. As my Dad always said, "the gun that won the West." Good little brush gun that's never left me down.

[@traviscoonrod185]

Neat story! It's always special when a boy gets a gun as a gift from his father. I can definitely relate!

[@garymatney9344]

One hundred twenty-seven years 10:58 of use can’t be wrong !

[@Francois_Dupont]

they litterally genocided the bison with that gun. it sure can kill a deer.

[@WombatAnnihilator]

West was “won” by 1895, and not just in the last year after the 1894 was released. but that “gun that won the west” is often said of any lever gun…

[@russellkeeling4387]

@@WombatAnnihilator The Winchester 1873 was the gun that won the west.

[@robertradcliff3254]

I used to hunt back in the the early and mid 90's with my dad , I used a 30.30 open sights , dad used 30.06 with a scope , both great rifles . Those were the good ole days .

[@popsxbox]

Got my 30-30 marlin at 15 years old , I’ll be 54 this year and still got it. $250 new at Western Auto and that took a couple of summers mowing yards, lots of yards lol!

[@davidwevans4132]

Got mine when I was 15 (1972). Coast to Coast HW was having a sale on Win M94, $68.88. Told my Mom, then she asked how much money I had in the bank. $40.00 I told her. Then we'll take that out and I'll pay the balance. We went in the next morning. Well, you had to order it, so we were the 8th to order one. The following week they were in. Oh, what a beautiful rifle. We had to go down the street to the Montgomery Ward Catalog store. They had 2 boxes of 170gr Flat Point. I went down to a neighbors range, fired 1 rnd each at 50yds, 100yds, & 150yds. Hit the bullseye with each shot. Never bought any 150gr bullets. When I was 17 & just finished the school year, I spent the summer at a Cabin next to a river (a few miles outside of town). The Caretaker was a WWII Veteran. I slept out on the front porch which was closed in and had screening for the upper portion of the wall. One night the goats came running up the stairs, nearly pushing the screen out of the door. Grabbed the 30-30 & flashlight, chased them about 100yds out in the field. Walking back to the Cabin I saw a pair of eyes about 40-50 ft ahead. I said aloud, "How did you get past me"? I turned and started counting pairs of eyes. Twice. "Well, all the goats are there. Who the hell are you"? Well, the eyes were bigger than the goats' eyes. They were also only 20 ft from me now! Then it hit me! Some of the neighbors had seen, or had trouble with a large Black Bear. And now he was right in front of me (between me and the cabin). I told him, "I'm not playing dead, I've got a rifle". I aimed between his eyes and fired. Cocked the lever & was ready for a 2nd shot. He jumped around 2 -3 times then stopped about 12-15 ft from me, with his feet spread, holding his head low, like he was trying to look under the light. Now all I could think about was all those stories of hunters being mauled by bears! The flashlight was going dim, and I couldn't see the front sight! So I looked down the centerline of the barrel, and lined up with the centerline of his body and fired. He dropped, and I went for the cabin. The Caretaker says "what are you shooting at....Hippies!" I said "there's a big ole Black Bear out there!" He jumped out of bed, threw a rob on, grabbed his turn-of-the-century model 94, 6 volt dry cell flashlight, out the backdoor onto the back porch. You could hear him growling out there. He handed me the light and said "Hold it on the back of his head." Which I did. Then he put a 117gr bullet into the brain. I was going to check to see if he was dead, and he said "wait about an hour." OK. He's been hunting bear since he was 24. now he's 64 (born in '08) I'll take his word for it. After a few minutes he says, "I've seen too many hunters walk up to a 'Dead' bear, then the bear gets up and mauls the hunter" He'd only seen 2 get killed, which was 2 too many. A lot of them ended up going to the hospital or just a doctor. After 45 minutes, he says to let 'Bo' out. (the Owners Golden Retriever). He walked around for 10 minutes till he was down wind of it (just barely a breeze). then all four feet were off the ground. It was funny! He was back on the porch in a flash. Sherman was laughing his rear off. So was I. Then he says, "Go check on it!" Down the stairs, over to where he lay. I tapped on his rear leg, no reaction. Headed around the front end, tapped him, no reaction. Back inside he called the Owner, said he be out in the morning with some help. Seven vehicles pulled in about 0500. Brought his brother & sister-in-law, with children...Brother-in-law and children...couple of cousins and children. I climbed a Laurel tree and hung a Block & Tackle w/3 sheaves on top, 2 on bottom, with 1" rope. Sherman said about 400lbs. Well, with 6 lines that comes to 67 lbs per line. Couldn't budge that boar. I said "well he weighs more than 400lbs, that's for sure." The owner's brother-in-law says "let's do some measuring". I had my tape on my belt, and he asked me to measure the rear foot. OK. I measured the rear-pad of the left foot. "What 's cha got", I said 15 inches. "The whole foot?" he asked. "No, just the rear foot pad, not the toe-pads." He said "Well, he's definitely bigger than 400lbs." Just adding on: The Caretaker's father had bought that M94 at the turn-of-the-century. 28 inch Octagon barrel, 25-35 Win cartridge. "Williams" Tang-mounted, Pop-up Peep Sight. I took two deer that summer with it. (season was 1st Sat in August to 3rd Sunday in September, limit 2 Black Tail Deer, Bucks, must be Forked on one side, must be 1 inch between points, NO SPIKE Bucks).

[@davidgraham2673]

@@davidwevans4132 Great Story. Loved hearing about your adventure.

[@wendellbell6164]

Oh a 32 special is way better than a 30-30. Atleast 1 or 2 % better.

[@WilliamStihl]

I miss western auto that was a good all around store !!

[@WilliamStihl]

@@davidwevans4132 cost to cost was another awesome store along with western auto we had them both !!

[@ryanaandre]

I'm doing my spring bear hunt with my 1955 Winchester Model 94 30-30 that my Uncle gave me. Sporting elegance with unparalleled tradition and history. Love it.

[@fred8174]

Mine was manufactured in 1951.

[@miguelfilo962]

Leave the bears alone. Do you need to eat the bear to survive?

[@barneybigrig70]

@@miguelfilo962 they make fine sausages, burgers and roasts. Leave the hunters alone, they aren't hurting you.

[@FyrFytr998]

I was wondering if a 3030 was good for bear. Folks always talking about slugs and 45-70.

[@leeadams5941]

The reason the 3030 is still around is the same reason the 30.06 is still around...IT WORKS

[@jeffslote9671]

Unless you're doing long range western shooting it's all one needs for whitetail hunting

[@earlmcmanus194]

But the .30-06 and it's numerous derivative chambering are actually useful for much more than just still hunting.

[@davidkgreen]

@@jeffslote9671 30.06 125 gr works in that application quite effectively.

[@tooboringformost]

@@davidkgreen agreed

[@geesss8675]

@@davidkgreen what bullet are you using 125gr for your 3006?

[@mikedowney5371]

Where i hunt i can rarely see more than a hundred yards. The lever 30 30 is light short and perfect for my thick woods hunting.

[@trapperbobpatriot8288]

I have shot many deer over the years with a 3030. My dad bought me a model 94 for my 14 birthday. I still have it and I’m 58

[@wiseguy4364]

When I was 17 I bag two deer with one shot at 125 yards hit the front one in the neck and then it hit the one standing behind him in the top of the head both went down like a house feel on them.

[@trapperbobpatriot8288]

@@wiseguy4364 my brother did that also. Two in one shot with a model 94

[@Akhazmat907]

I got mine for my 6th birthday. Gave my son to him on his 6th birthday last year. He got a caribou with it this year.

[@guaporeturns9472]

@@wiseguy4364 when I was 16 I got three with one shot , at 126 yards, all in the head.. oh , and they were elk.. huge bulls too.

[@Rakkasan-vr8xt]

I’ve never taken a deer with a 30-30 but I have taken many pigs with mine. I have a Marlin micro groove and aside from being very accurate, it’s the best truck gun around. For me anyway.

[@bifftannen4539]

Only 2 things I take with me when I deer hunt. My 30-30 & my father. Doesn't get no better than that.

[@BilgePump]

amen to that!!

[@kevinroark5024]

I did until my dad passed in Jan.2015,but still have my two grown sons.

[@happyputt9709]

Two Mcfly's with the same gun.

[@iLL_Corvo]

Buff! I own your dad

[@ryancrowley7599]

@@kevinroark5024 I’m sorry for youre loss

[@rickmatz4456]

I remember when my brother turned 16 in 1977. He walked into the co op and bought a new 30 30 Winchester and a box of cartridges for 95 bucks.

[@kennethquesenberry2610]

I bought a Browning HP around 1970 for about $105. I could barely afford it.

[@MJA5]

@@kennethquesenberry2610 that was quite a bit of cheddar in 1970. Kind of like saying you got a new Corvette that year for $8,000 😃

[@kennethquesenberry2610]

A box of 9mm was $5 around 1970. While there are lots of good pistols for around $500 or a little more, a good steel framed pistol will probably be over $600. Don't remember what Browning Hi-Powers cost the last time they were available but a new Colt Government Model is over $800 and is probably worth it, given what the competition goes for. Right now, 9mm is around $20. I haven't been able to find .357 Sig.

[@fizzgigmalmy2567]

Man....those were the days

[@Maelstril]

Must have been nice before inflation and boomer greed

[@BigDadSkyPilot]

Great video and tons of useful information. Thank you. My Marlin 30-30 is the only rifle I’ve ever used and it has never let me down. 35 years and counting.

[@gradyhernandez4699]

303 British

[@lorenkindschy7153]

I've been using mine for 26 years. It just works.

[@rgalletta58]

This is an amazingly timely presentation. I've been after my Dad's Model 94, for decades. Tonight, he turned it over to me.

[@rgalletta58]

@TRUE NORTH RIDING Thank You. I'm stoked. I don't love the Model 94 for it's ballistic attributes. I like Ron's presentation, regardless.

[@mrkyzaa2324]

New Factory ammunition available in stock 9mm,5.56,223,300blackouts,6.5creed,308, 380,40-70 and many others. And many others Due to ammo shortages we sale at affordable prices and offer fast delivery all over US and worldwide with certified ffl You can contact us at [phone] Website: kyz-ammunitions.com

[@johnwallace1729]

Keep it forever , i wish my dad would have been into guns .

[@rgalletta58]

@@johnwallace1729 I intend to, Sir. Thanks for commenting.

[@mikek8089]

@@rgalletta58, Congrats!👍 There's nothing like receiving heirloom firearms! I have 3 myself. I have plenty of firearms, but usually grab one of the 3 for deer season. Dads .32 Win, Gramps .308 Win, and a good friends .401 Win SL.

[@Akhazmat907]

Because its a great round. Up here in Alaska I have dropped everything from caribou to a Kodiak grizzly. I have been hunting with it for 30 years and my father has been using it for 50+ years. My children are hunting with it now.

[@TheSulross]

History, heritage, heirloom

[@Akhazmat907]

@@TheSulross Amen brother

[@georgebellerose4988]

When I spent time up in the Yukon Territory, & roaming around Dawson City, & up in the Cyprus Anvil Range was packing for Grizzlies. ...saw enough of them. I had a Marlin 1894 .44 magnum lever action with micro groove barrel. The .44 ammo was 240 grain jacketed. I know it wasn't recommended, but I also used the rifle ammo in my sidearm.....a Ruger .44 magnum with a 7.5 inch barrel. The recommended sidearm ammo was .44 magnum 200 grain non-jacketed. I wanted close "punch-power" that I didn't think I would get with a 30-30, & that's what most of the guys up there carried.

[@clintoncampbell236]

@@georgebellerose4988 a 30/30 at 100yds has the same muzzle energy as a .44 mag at point blank 🤷‍♂️ just saying.

[@junichiroyamashita]

Does it work against boars? I thought i might help fight the pig invasion.

[@waynemayle865]

The 30-30 has out lived the .25 rem 30 rem 32 rem 25-35 win 32 win 38-55 but I still love them all. 30-30 will be around long after we're gone

[@michaelsalfai9852]

We still have a couple .30-30s in our U.P. Michigan deer camp. Others include the .300 Savage, .30-06, .270, .243, .444, and .45/70.

[@LarryGarcia-p3j]

444 & 45-70 should be an embarrassment to who ever is using them to hunt deer.😢

[@brandondawson3782]

I love a 30-30 lever action.

[@Valor_73737]

I have used the 30-30 for the past 60 years, it has taken Mule Deer, Pronghorn and Elk, often out to 200 yards or so! It has never let me down, and is still my go to rifle. These days I use it on feral hogs. Bottom line: Shoot what does the job for you, that you feel the most confident in using. For me that is the Model 94 30-30.

[@warpig79]

30-30 on Elk? Very interesting. I get shit from people for using .308 on Elk. I guess lots of people think you need anti aircraft guns to bring down big game.

[@Valor_73737]

@@warpig79 A lot of people are ignorant! A properly placed .22 can bring down an Elk. When I was in High School I witnessed a young man take down a running bull Elk with a single head shot at about 75 yards with a long octagon barreled 30-30. He had mastered that gun! Over the ensuing years I took down 6 elk with mine, two at about 200 yards. Only one required a 2nd shot. On deer and other animals of that size I used a 150 gr Corelock. On Elk I used a 170 gr Corelock.

[@Quackerstacker1973]

@@warpig79 shot my first deer and first elk with my dad's model 94 30/30 then went to a 06 the last 10 years I have been shooting a .308 killed deer and elk with all of them hope to draw a moose in the next few years and put the .308 to work

[@jackgriffith9229]

@@warpig79 Anti aircraft?? Okay so I always thought it was eight TINY Reindeer!!🤣!! A center fire thirty caliber cartridge at 125 yards with proper shot placement will drop in its tracks whatever your target is. There have been plenty of Elk Moose Caribou antelope mule deer white tails bears wild boar 🐗 that have been dispatched very effectively with the.30-30 as it was the only choice for a smokeless powder cartridge for quite some time!

[@thomasking4136]

@@warpig79 lol. You are correct. I had a friend drop an elk with a 243. Granted it took 2 shots. Shot placement is key, regardless of 3030 or flak cannon.

[@richardbranton2780]

I killed over 30 deer with my 30 30 that my dad got me for Christmas when I was about 13. Someone broke in my house and stole it about 30 years ago and I sure miss it. Damn thieves I hate them

[@keithlucas6260]

Got setup and had my car with all my guns in it stolen....got the car back though and a friend who owns a gunshop got my original S&W Schofield back..he recognized it and gave the guy trying to sell it an ultimatum.

[@nathanlambshead4778]

@@mrkyzaa2324 I ordered and sent a screenshot. Please email me back.

[@williamgates5652]

I hate a thief too.

[@jasoncown]

@@nathanlambshead4778 That's a fake site man

[@jasoncown]

@@nathanlambshead4778 You got scammed. Get your credit agency or bank to do a chargeback and file a fraud report.

[@robertsansone1680]

My 30-30 is the only rifle I won't sell. It's never let me down & I feel like I was born with it in my hands. Great information. Thank You

[@boddaboom77]

I got my first 30-30 when I was 15 years old. My neighbor gave me his Marlin lever action for cutting his grass through the summer. That and a little .38 special snub nose. Great deal imo lol

[@coreymoore1186]

America moments paid in arms

[@LisaAnn777]

My first gun also when I was 16 from my dad, marlin 336 I have it to this day and it's one of my favorite guns i own.

[@screenname6829]

Living in new York the best I could get for a lawn is 10$ an hour....that was a fantastic deal Count yourself lucky my friend Hell I bet you still have that 30-30 I know I wouldn't get rid of it

[@boddaboom77]

@@screenname6829 yup, still have the 30-30. It was my main deer rifle for probably a decade or more. I forgot to add that same guy also gave my dad a 16 guage shotgun (can't remember the brand) for some work he did on his house once. I just asked my dad about it the other day because I stumbled upon some 16g shells at a store and I haven't seen them in years. My dad told me that someone had stolen it from him years back unfortunately.

[@screenname6829]

@@boddaboom77 Damn shame about that shotgun. All the more reason to treasure that little rifle though im sure i dont need to tell you that. All the best to you and stay safe out there

[@plumbbobslim9313]

Hunting in northern Minnesota woods, like elsewhere, sometimes you might be hard pressed in some areas to get a shot beyond 75 yards.

[@hockeyplayah7912]

Same here in New England. Hills and trees..

[@janesmith4017]

Same here in Appalachia. No one around here looks down on a Marlin 30 30.

[@vanferrell7021]

Have both 30.30 Remington and a 30. 06 Remington just depends upon what kind of hunting I’m doing if I am in the brush nothing beats a 30.30 Open field 30.06

[@nathanlambshead4778]

Here in New England a 30 yard shot is common. My closest shot was around 7 feet. And I missed haha.

[@1notgilty]

Hell, I've hunted some spots in the Adirondack Mountains where I could hear the deer but couldn't see him until he walked out of the brush 10 yards away. No need for a flat-shooting, long-range rifle most places there. A 30-30 is just fine and you used to be able to buy the ammo at every mom and pop gas station. Ah, those were the days when you could buy ammunition at a gas station. It wasn't that long ago, but before the libtards started protecting us.

[@retirednavy8720]

Shot my first buck, a fork horn mulie, with a 30-30 when I was 9. Still have the rifle and it will never be sold.

[@lyndseymarieburke1834]

I love how straight to the point you are. I grew up in New Hampshire and the 30-30 Winchester and 35 Remington where the kings in the deer hunting season 😊

[@guycalgary7800]

It’s the best truck gun EVER! When I was a kid , every ranch truck either had a .22 or a 30-30 lever behind the bench seat .

[@scvandy3129]

I hear ya, "guy calgary." Sadly and realistically in 2021 some 'bad egg' is going to steal it -- whether or not windows are up and truck locked -- or, in more locales than 'in the good ole days' -- some peace officer will pull you over and say, "Where have you been, pal?! You gotta put that baby in the cargo hold -- out of sight and locked." Moi: "But officer, as you can see, my pick-up doesn't have a cargo hold." Officer: "Then, leaver 'er at home. . . . BTW, some 'goodie-two-shoes' / 'nervous Nellie' speed-dialed 9-11 complaining about some vehicle just seen with a gun in it. That's why you and I are having this discussion." So, as your comment clearly states: "When I was a kid . . . " And those easier, more civilized days with an educated and more tolerant populace -- civilians and law enforcement officers -- are never to return. Sigh. . . . . On a truck that's basically limited to the owner's property -- a .30-30 AND a .22 are the ideal duo in a multi-level rack in the rear window. Shotgun or fishing rod optional for the third position. An idyllic sight most definitely. Thanks again, Ron Spomer Outdoors, for an informative, 'by the numbers,' professionally produced, visually entertaining report.

[@johnaverick7468]

Even here in Police State Florida my dad ran around like that in his old Chevy truck.

[@brianhillis3701]

I remember most people kept them on a gun rack across the window.

[@harrymills2770]

Some kids hunted before and after school. It wasn't unusual for a pickup to be parked out in the school parking lot with hunting rifle and/or shotgun in the rack. It just wasn't a big deal, although the boys who didn't have 'em were envious. Quite a few kids had jobs and saved up for a car when they turned 16 or 17. Times were simpler then, and I lived out in the country.

[@dougdownunder5622]

@@harrymills2770 i.e. better.

[@jameschaisson7747]

30/30 is a great choice !!! Would take it over a 243 any day! Yes the 243 has great numbers but the lever action is the best!! Great job Ron!

[@johnshoureas1629]

You can get the 243 or the 308 in lever actions.

[@jameschaisson7747]

Your are correct but if you don’t have a box mag your rifle is useless. I would definitely love one of the 6.5 Creedmoor ones!

[@walterabernathy3229]

Unless you honey pronghorn or deer out past 300 yards the 33rd of the job past 300 yards I would go with a 243. At 400 yards the 243 will beat a 308 and about equal to a 30-06.

[@tanman7879]

Because you don't need a 300 Win Mag for deer like some people think.

[@vanringo]

Depending on where I am hunting, I will use a 30-30 for closer hunts. If I am looking at longer shots I will move to my .308. I used to hunt elk with the 300 win mag, but honestly, I really got to where I could make the same shots with the lighter weapon and didn't need the extra kick when shot placement is more important than impact velocity. Plus I keep more meat with the smaller loads.

[@davidjames6050]

I have said that very thing and great rifle and very dependable in wet conditions

[@robertthomas5906]

300 Win Mag? Well if you want to cut it close. Better get the 50 BMG. LOL.

[@randalhuffman8827]

@@robertthomas5906 lol......

[@357bullfrog9]

Where I live your lucky to get a shot at a deer much past 25 or 30 yards in these thick woods. The young hunters don't want to hear it but s 12 gauge slug is all you need

[@dylandonehue3475]

The first rifle I ever bought was a 30-30 lever action and almost 10 years later I still love it

[@davemeise2192]

When I was 12 and started hunting I was allowed to use my dad's Winchester 94 30-30. I'm 68 now and I still remember using that gun for the first few years. I got my first few moose with it and have spent a lot of time trying to get that original feeling back of weight, balance, comfort etc with several other lever action guns. None of them have quite done it. I have many fond memories of that trusty old 30-30.

[@BiggestRedditor]

The lever action 30-30 just feels nice to hold. I just can’t stop using it. I’ve bought many other hunting rifles but I always go back to the 30-30. Last deer season I bought a nice .270, put lots of money into it and took it hunting once and the next day I was back to the 30-30 lol. It’s easy to carry around and it looks so cool like an old western. It’s a timeless design

[@KarlHeckman]

Yes, great to carry in one hand. A few years ago I got rid of a 1895 Winchester because with the magazine it was uncomfortable to carry in the hand. If I don't love it, it moves on....

[@GeorgiaBoy1961]

One of the reasons the "cowboy' rifles have endured is that their slab-sided design, free of projections or things to snag upon, works so well in a scabbard hung from a saddle. You can use a bolt-gun from horseback, but it just isn't as easy or hassle-free as an old lever-gun. They carry well on the foot, too, and point great and come up fast when that prize deer appears suddenly. And for most shots, an optic isn't needed. Those iron sights work fine once you get 'em zeroed properly and know your trajectory.

[@Robmancan1987]

@@GeorgiaBoy1961 The 30-30 is also a good brush round. It's such a heavy bullet, you can shoot through twigs or grass and not drastically change the trajectory or cause it to disintegrate on impact.

[@mag-nm7tw]

Same reason my Model 94 is always at the ready ( mine is in .44 mag). I happen to like using it over my bolt guns sometimes. It all depends on what mood I’m in. Everything I shoot with it dies within 20-30 yds

[@jonathanharrison4890]

What a lovely video. He made ME fall in love with that old lever action! It's amazing what a few years seems to do for a guy. No cockiness, just honesty and wisdom.

[@thomasd9237]

I love my 30-30. Fast, accurate, reliable. 'Nuff said

[@MattLewis-z3q]

They're not fast at all.

[@grego934]

Two things in life that I can trust , my dog and my 30 30 . ✌️

[@LittleSkork]

Beagle? Great hunting and tracking dog as well as a family dog.

[@todds4101]

That sir is the truth!

[@eddiea3251]

after my 28 yr marriage ended i soon learned that my dog is more faithful and my 30-30 is better to look at.

[@bobsradio6025]

Dudley - This reminds me of a video on You Tube that shows a clip from an old western movie that shows Walter Brennan and John Wayne sitting around, Ricky Nelson playing a guitar and Dean Martin singing "My rifle, my pony and me."

[@blademan6075]

And your better off keeping it that way!

[@eddiebrasher5453]

Just got my first lever gun for Christmas. Winchester 94AE in 30-30. Can't wait to take her out for a spin. At 55 I feel like a teenager again. My wife is awesome!!!

[@tacman2893]

Because it rocks, and the guns it is chambered in are just plain awesome!

[@stevenh.390]

Just acquired my first Winchester 94 Pre 64 in 30-30 over the weekend. Always wanted a lever action rifle. I'm so stoked. The gun has honest wear, wouldn't be surprised the original owner hunted with it.

[@andersonsprairieviewfarm2552]

Pre 64 is a true treasure, no comparison to the latter models, their heavier tighter and smooth operations, newer ones are accurate and reliable, but fit and Finnish is a definite disappointment, and should probably should have Daisy carved in the stock, because it sounds like one when you grab it, lots of rattles.

[@steventanner1428]

The older I get the more I appreciate bigger slower bullets. My current favorite is a Marlin lever action (336). Chambered in .35 Remington.

[@dr.froghopper6711]

Same here. My dad left me a 336 from 1951, in 35 Remington. I’m older, bigger and slower myself so I feel your pain.

[@moonbounce]

I have one also, and I love that rifle!

[@Loiczzr]

@@dr.froghopper6711 yep, got the same year and caliber, waffle top (not drilled/tapped) beautiful rifle.

[@jamespippin9435]

I purchased a Marlin 336 chambered in .35 Rem. About 15 years ago and after using it for a couple of years I haven't taken another rifle out of the safe When deer season rolls around . I feed her a steady diet of Remington core lokt or Winchester power point 200 grain roundnose bullets and she performs perfectly. Most of my shots have been within 100 yards , but I did stretch her out to 325 yards one time which resulted in a dead deer.

[@Freezer003]

Shot my first rifle deer last season with the ole 30-30 and open sights about 50 yards. Made it a wonderful hunt

[@seanbailey1901]

This was a fun watch. 30-30 has always been my favorite rifle. Whatever I'm going to take shooting, I'm still bringing it

[@philgolson6306]

My late father gifted me a wonderful Winchester 3030 and it is one of the most special things I ever received in my early 20s. It has all of that nostalgia you mentioned early in your video, and as I live overseas in a place where I cannot bring my firearms over from the USA, it waits, patiently, for the occasional trip when I can come visit her. Great video.

[@DeimosPC]

Been living in this great country for 5 years and I got my first lever action in 2016. One of the older JM marked Marlin's model 336 and I love it. Nothing points better than a lever action and it's so easy to start on target.

[@gunsandrotors8704]

I came across a mint JM marked marlin 30-30. I passed on it...wished l didnt went home to read up on it ..went back a day later and it was gone.

[@mikecrean8849]

So interesting for us Brits. Brought up with the Winchester, like you, as a kid in countless westerns. Real iconic rifle. Must try one on our next visit to the US. 🙋‍♂️🇬🇧👍

[@thinkfirst6431]

What is sad is that you can't own or try one in your country without a license, a good reason, and is subject to confiscation if you fart wrong.

[@smelltheglove2038]

Sucks you guys let your government steal your right of self protection.

[@johnwurfel2862]

Move here. We want you here.

[@lowhydrogen7018a1]

Here in Maine, the 30-30 is about as good as it gets. Lots of table fair has been had with this fine jewel.

[@litemetal]

They say that the 30-30 has put more meat 🥩 on the table than any other gun. That’s good enough for me !

[@gavinm1347]

I prefer the 32 special for NH for the optional bear

[@jimpeschke3435]

30-30 is a fine deer rifle, but I don't like it for bear. Seen too many people lose bears with it.

[@gavinm1347]

@@jimpeschke3435 choose a 170 grain bullet. It will decimate them much more than the 150

[@jimpeschke3435]

@@gavinm1347 I would expect that to work. I often use a .308 for bear, but I've seen (in video and in person) bears lost or require multiple shots from a .30-30, but I can't say which types of rounds they were using. How many have you taken with your .30-30?

[@deanhoward4128]

I still have my model 94 - 30-30 that my dad gave me for my 15th birthday in 1974, it was new then & I have taken several deer with it; I have other rifles in .308 Winchester & 30-06 , but the old Winchester is still my favorite!

[@jonfisher9960]

The “Legend” will live forever

[@foghornleghorn4173]

My first rifle too, bought it at the Old Port Mill in 1972. Promptly shot a couple deer with it then graduated to the 30-06 in a Rem. 760 pump. Both are great on running deer back in the days when we could still really hunt and chase deer.

[@dwaybetoggymackinaw5893]

I had a 760 in 308. Loved it but it was crazy loud. Wicked accurate gun though, and a dandy little trigger

[@robburton3255]

Great review! I got my first 30-30 from my dad when I was 12. That was 40 years ago and I still have it. I've harvested a lot of deer with that trusty rifle. Probably still my favorite rifle.

[@logicalgamer4136]

I have a Winchester 30-30 that my grandpa bought for my mom. it survived being in a house fire we had it re blued and new stock it still shoots straight today .

[@renzo4296]

This is so awesome, I grew up hunting with my father, we had 30.30's , we had 2 Winchester's and 1 Marlin, they are the best guns all around and we used them exclusively.

[@RaidShadowRipoff]

the 30-30 and 35 Rem are probably the best all around for lever action hunting.

[@jc6077]

I still use a 35 today….my grandfather, dad, and myself have killed many deer with it. Never had a reason to ‘upgrade’ it.

[@gewglesux]

Never had a 35 Rem..

[@davidwevans4132]

Well, .25-35 Win, .30-30 Win, .32-40 Win, .32 Win Spl, .348 Win, .35 Rem, the 38-55 Win, & the .45-70 Govt. Of those, I would say the .30-30 Win, .32 Win Spl, & the .35 Rem. I’ve seen more .32 Win Spl in Northern Calif than .35 Rem. Seen more .35 Rem in AZ & TX than .32 Win. Basically, those 3 cartridges top the Lever Action hunting. Although, over the past few years the .45-70 has been making headway, mostly moose & bear hunting.

[@davidwevans4132]

@@tonyv8925 It’s on my list! .32 Win Spl.

[@davidedwards2773]

Bought my Marlin 30-30 W in 1973 with a scope. I use Hornady ammo and tighten up my groups by an inch at 80 yards. Never will sell it 😎👍🏻

[@LostMyMojo100]

That Hornady ammo really works well in my Marlin 336... Extends the range also.

[@LarryGarcia-p3j]

You don't need a scope

[@OldGuy2-m4c]

Marlin 336 w/Scope from the factory. I bought it the week I retired at age 55. My first .22 was a Marlin 1870-1970 gold triggered commerative. These are my favorite rifles even though I have built numeras AR's. The 30-30 is just plain fun to shoot. Between the kick and the lever action, you won't waste ammunition on rapid shoots in quick succession because you have re-aim. A marvel of ingenuity!

[@seektruthpeterman]

Thank you Ron.. For putting out great historically informative, and entertaining videos! The Ol' 30-30 is bad ass as we all know. I never regret watching your videos! Time well spent!!

[@donaldanderson3249]

My favorite rifle period . I have 3 , my great grandmother's, my dad's that he bought the year I was born ( 1962 ) and mine , a ( 1974 )

[@63DW89A]

@Donald Anderson: The 30-30 will actually out perform the 7.62 X 39 by a decent margin, especially with the newer Hornady Flex Tip bullets. In the 30-30 I've actually hand loaded High BC bullets like the Hornady 165 gr SST for improved longer range performance, but have to limit the rounds to only two, one in the mag and one in the chamber to prevent a possible detonation in the tubular magazine.

[@Mntnere]

Love the lever actions, I've had 2 30-30's but have owned a .35 lever gun from Marlin for over 20 years. Hits hard and they drop

[@johnk9698]

My first deer rifle was a Stevens 30-30 bolt action. I shot a buck at 200 yards with it. Great caliber!!!!!

[@bushcraftnorthof6012]

One of my favourite cartridges! I run a Marlin 30AS in .30-30, and it’s a real sweetheart. I love my .44 Magnum and my .45-70 as well, but that old .30-30 is a great woods walking rifle. Grouse and ptarmigan to moose and black bear. Cheap to feed, decent capacity, no recoil and fun to reload for, as well. Thanks for a great video on it.

[@itbigboy1984]

Within 200 yards and you have done your homework THEY WORK! I've used them for 55+ years and I have never looked back!

[@nikispaniki]

And if you’re like me, you can’t hit anything past 150.

[@brazzy1467]

I inherited my grandfather's 30-30 Winchester 94 Trapper and I still deer hunt with it. In the thick woods of Arkansas it's my go to deer rifle.

[@thomashanke6750]

Always wanted one. Finally bought a Henry 30-30 in their x line. The feel and smooth operation of it is awesome. Looking forward to using it this year. It'll be my new deep woods/swamp gun where woy don't have more than a 50 yard shot. Kept it with iron sights.

[@supobostarman]

Love my Winchester 30 30! Had it since 1987. Does everything I need a rifle for.

[@ClanDunchad_c.650]

At 8 years old, my dad started taking me and my brother, 10, big game hunting. He started me with an old Bear whitetail long bow. My first shot would've been a 2-3yr doe, but I didn't draw, was rather captivated watching her curiously and cautiously investigating who and what I was ...after she got within 6ft of me she bolted. At that moment, the respect my dad had taught us about nature and game before he allowed us to carry weapons really resonated with me. "Leave no sign of your entry behind, harvest only what is legal and only what we need on the table or in the freezer." He was stern and meticulous as he taught us thorough gun safety and outdoorsman skills. When I was 10 dad graduated me to his Mossberg 500... I looked at it as a young boy like it was a Howitzer, respected it the same I'm sure. At 12 dad handed down to me his prized possession and favorite go-to rifle, his '76 Marlin 30-30 gold trigger. I had arrived, proved myself, crossed the threshold. Many big game, fond memories of hunts with my dad and years later the "sledgehammer" is by far my favorite. Many calibers and fine rifles later, that ol'sledge was ever faithful, effectively accurate within range, even made many long range shots with experience judging distance and windage, used with open sights for years until when I was 16 a dear friend of my dad's, a Korean War sniper gave me a scope from his personal collection, a Weaver K10X... today, the "sledge" hangs ready, willing and within reach, gold trigger glistening and catches your eye same as it did as a young boy while dad carried it.

[@snoopu2601]

My Pop's kept his 5 son's away from fire arm's but we made are own out of wood barrow a neighbor kid's toy rifle traced it on wood cut it out with a jig saw made it look real with a file shaped it. We used to hike in the park but it looked like a Forrest had many tree's creek. Play like we were on some type of army patrol hike all over the hills. We were pretty far from home thinking back none of us were teen's. It wasn't until we became adults to buy are hunting riffles.

[@Tsayoga]

Love that, thank you for sharing that piece of your story.

[@LarryGarcia-p3j]

You don't need a scope for that 30-30

[@ClanDunchad_c.650]

@@LarryGarcia-p3j Copy that, and very true. Though considering 'the man' who opened his gun cabinet and freely offered me, I proudly mounted it with the raised mounts- option of using that treasured Weaver for longer range or iron sight, best of both worlds, respectfully.

[@willmears1111]

In my Northern woods my Marlin 30-30 is the best.

[@stevenstewart2102]

Great gun

[@nathanlambshead4778]

I hunt the Northern Woods. Also with a Marlin 30-30. I like it better than the Winchester for shooting, but to be honest, the Winchester is an easier carry and quicker to throw to the shoulder. I have both. but I always take my Marlin. Just love it more I guess.

[@1pottercounty]

My first deer was taken with a Winchester 30.30 with iron sights and at 12 years old. Potter County Pennsylvania October 1966.

[@LP-bi5xo]

First rifle Dad bought for me…marlin lever action .30-.30. Loved it then. Treasure it now over 30 years later. My favorite among all my firearms.

[@blueduck9409]

The 30wcf is still with us, because it is extremely effective, and highly versatile. I just dont see it going away anytime soon.

[@dgambrel9241]

Hard to beat a lever rifle for woods work. I use my 336 .44 “jam master”, aka my favorite rifle and my 45/70 guide gun that everyone on the Internet says shouldn’t shoot because it is a Remington version that is a fantastic rifle.

[@mfallen4277]

I've got an old JM 1895 CB 24in as well as a "remlin" GBL and while the wood isn't matched as nicely, and the checkering is a little more wonky, the action is almost as smooth as the 40yo JM and with maybe 150rds through it the thing isn't even broken in yet. Groups just as well if I do my part. They did put out some really crappy guns in the first few years, but people act like ALL of the Remington guns were awful and that's just not true. My 1894 in .44mag was built in late 2019 and is nearly perfect cosmetically, has an awesome 2-stage trigger I installed (factory trigger wasn't bad, I just wanted a little less of that Marlin trigger slop) and the "finishing touches" like loading gate spring strength, sharp edges, etc were taken care of quite well at the factory. Both are fantastic guns that I'll never get rid of

[@wolfmanrebel874]

I as well have a remlin 336,1895 GG,and 1894 cowboy...I think aside from woodwork and fit&finish that obviously is not up to classic Marlin standard the 1894 gives the bad rap, the 1895 and 336 functions great,just as well as grandad's 336 and 1895 but the 1894 cowboy is Not even close to the Henry BBS in grouping and honastly the Rossi 92 at half the price is better out of the box, granted of course working them over makes all the difference but a $1000 tool should not need work out of the box when a $400 and $800 do not, my Henry BBS will stack holes all day long but sucks for cowboy action because not being an "opentop" if you start running it hard an extract will hang in the port therefore as far as PCC are concerned the Henry is my ranch workhorse ,the Rossi is for cowboy action and the 1895 45-70 and 336 3030 for packing freezers, the remlin 1894 I am not very pleased with and the company don't give 2 shits about my satisfaction...Henry on the other hand sends me birthday wishes,lol

[@wolfmanrebel874]

@@mfallen4277 I just read your full comment, I'm glad you like your 1894 , myself as well as a few folks In my CA crew wasn't as fortunate,of course we were able to smoothe out our issues and ain't the end of the world by no means but issues none the less such as lever jamming..not sticking...jamming to a point of disassembly which appears to be rather common with the CB model at least the batch we got into around here I'm sure the manufacturer probably have that more or less figured out at this point but I can say that's the only Marlin/remlin I can complain about, otherwise satisfied owner of 1895's,336,and model60 ( this one I am really impressed with, especially after ditching the plastic trigger group you can't choke this thing down even with the cheapest of 22ammo)

[@mfallen4277]

@@wolfmanrebel874 I've heard the 1894's had more issues than the remington 336 and 1895. Mine has been phenomenal thus far. Only have maybe 400rds between mag and special through it, but I can shoot 3-4in groups at 100yd off-hand. Not world-beating by any stretch, but no lever action is going to be consistently sub-MOA just due to the barrel banding, constant weight/vibration variability as the tube empties, which will effect how the barrel performs, etc. My brother has a Big Boy in .44 and I shoot the same groups with it (though it's preferred ammo is Win white box) I have noticed that my 1894 is really picky with ammo. It loves the American Eagle loads in 240gr and for some reason, the PPU 240gr jhp's. It really doesn't like 180gr, at least of the few I've put through it. Groups open up to 8-9inches with 180gr. Not had a chance to try anything heavier than 240 yet so maybe I'll find an even better one at some point. Also read from others that their 94's can be quite finicky with what it will shoot accurately, so maybe you've just not found "the one" yours likes? Could just be that you got a bad one, as that does seem to be the model people are still finding issues with. If nothing else, once Ruger has Marlin up & running again you should be able to send it in and have them evaluate it. Not positive, but I'd bet they will be honoring any repair policy Marlin had in place.

[@mfallen4277]

@@wolfmanrebel874 Ah, I sent a comment just as you did! I thought you were referring to accuracy. If it's jamming to the point where it needs to be disassembled that's a big deal! Hopefully Ruger can get you sorted out this fall when they re-open Marlin. Sorry to hear you got a bad one... I guess that's why Remington folded; they just couldn't get their act together quick enough, and with Henry and Rossi both putting out great pistol cal lever guns, Rem had zero room for error. I expect good things from Ruger though, hopefully getting these problems sorted out and maybe even some new models/chamberings.

[@8626John]

Marlin model 336 was my first modern deer rifle. With a fixed 4 power scope, it made a perfect woods rifle.

[@chrisylink]

I still have my grandpa's winchester model 94 (pre 64) and it's my favorite gun. Just a legend in my mind.

[@TCS_Aquatics]

I’ve got my grandfather’s old Winchester 30-30, my grandfather is still with us at 80 but finally let me take hold of her. He got it when he was a very young man from a much older gentleman in our community who used it for deer hunting before moving to a scoped bolt action. Such a treasure for me to be trusted with.

[@1969darr]

.30-30 and .35Rem Best woods guns ever made.

[@leebaker2588]

and, 356 winchester

[@johnwillis4706]

Don't forget the tried and true 45-70.

[@leebaker2588]

@@johnwillis4706 Have one of those as well. Should've bought a 307 when they were inexpensive. . . . one always gets away!

[@johnwillis4706]

@@leebaker2588 So it would seem. I missed a beautiful engraved and stocked Winchester .264 mag, some time ago.

[@357bullfrog9]

I would like to get a 35 remington. I've herd tins of good stuff about that round

[@GulfShoresVacationGuide]

30-30 is a perfect gun for hunting Whitetail in the thicker woods with shorter shooting lanes and brushier areas. I have had mine for 25 years and I find myself packing it for my hunts more often than any of my other rifles. Plus it's light and easy to carry in and out of the woods and for still hunting :)

[@peterweikel7123]

It's a load of fun to shoot with mild recoil and unadulterated effectiveness, it won't be going anywhere anytime soon

[@musicordeon3790]

i dunno man i have a model 94 and it kicks like a mule

[@peterweikel7123]

@@musicordeon3790 I always thought the 3030 and the 308 kicked hard until I started shooting rifles that actually recoiled. If you doubt I have a 45-70 or a 416 rigsby that would put it into perspective for you😉

[@musicordeon3790]

im sure they do.

[@josiahwilliams752]

Hearing Ron spomer say his first deer hunt was in the black hills was legendary for me because that’s where I live

[@joshualund4876]

Same here

[@reb1050]

I personally prefer the .35 Rem. but when looking for one, I ran across a great deal on a 30-30. SO, I went with the 30-30 and really don't have any regrets. I also prefer the Marlin 336 over the Winchester 94 mainly because of the pistol grip stock and side eject. It's definitely my thick woods, medium range deer rifle as well as my "truck gun".

[@blueduck9409]

Marlin makes a fine rifle, but i have discovered that the 94 winchester is more accurate, and jams alot less. Thats just my own experience growing up with the 3030.

[@reb1050]

@@blueduck9409 My first deer rifle was a Winchester 94 in a 30-30. Being young and new to deer hunting, I must say I didn't know s**t. I missed a couple of deer, blamed it on the lack of range of the rifle, and went to a Remington 30-06. Later in life, I got a Marlin 336 in the .35 Rem. For some reason, I have had 2 in my life but kept getting rid of them. 5 yrs. ago, I wanted another one and found the Marlin 336 in the 30-30. I'm keeping it for a truck gun if nothing else. The Winchester is a very good gun, but personal preference makes me go with the Marlin.

[@blueduck9409]

@@reb1050 like i said Marlin made a fine rifle, at least the older ones anyway. I cant say much about the new ones. When i was growing up my best friend had the marlin 336 in 3030 and i had the winchester 94. We spent considerable time in the woods being boys with our 3030s. My buddy made some impressive shots with his Marlin, but over the decades i remember his Marlin jammed often, sometimes it jammed so bad it completely locked up his rifle and had to be taken home for disassembly. In the 30 some years ive carried a winchester 94, i have never had it jam or lock up. I have made excellent shots at all practical distances and my 94 out shot my buddies Marlin many times. Like i said those are just some of my own experiences with Marlins and winchesters.

[@reb1050]

@@blueduck9409 My experience is somewhat limited. I only had the Winchester for 2 or 3 yrs. and all totaled, between 3 different Marlins, maybe a total of 15 yrs. I can't compare accuracy since the Winchester I had was iron sights only while the I put scopes on all the Marlins. As far as dependable and reliable, I never had any malfunctions with either the Winchester or the Marlins. As I said, my main reason for choosing the Marlin is the pistol grip stock and the side eject.

[@blueduck9409]

@@reb1050 I always used open iron sights on my 94 winchester. When hunting i want reliability, and scopes just dont have the same reliability as iron sights. I think the accuracy is the difference in the barrels. Marlin use to use micro groove rifling and winchester used ballard cut rifling. The difference in accuracy wasnt very much, but it was noticeable when shooting paper targets. The winchester always printed just a little tighter groups. I have a modern Marlin 95cb and i still notice the difference between it and my winchesters. The Marlin has a larger chamber, and wont print good groups unless i make ammo that has a larger bullet diameter. One thin g i really like about the Marlin is the ease and simplicity of taking down a marlin lever gun. It took me 20 years to get the nerve up to learn how to take apart my 92 model winchester. Its not very easy. Lol.

[@jimstates321]

I have hunted whitetail with a 30-30 for 26 years. A savage bolt and a marlin 336. Always felt like I should get a bigger gun but every time I shoot at something it goes down quick. I have come to love that little caliber.

[@chrisblake1918]

Exactly so!

[@gzzacordeon]

Dad accidentally dropped his 30-30 in the river while hunting when I was a kid and could never recover it. I am looking to get one for him again soon. Yes there's a lot of better cartridges out there, but a 30-30 is just historical and brings me memories of hunting with dad. Great video.

[@guaporeturns9472]

Go back and magnet fish it out. How cool would that be?

[@blueduck9409]

Which river, and at what point on the river?

[@guaporeturns9472]

@@blueduck9409 the river in which he dropped it..at the point where it was dropped. Any more questions , youngster?

[@blueduck9409]

@@guaporeturns9472 Im not a spring chicken any more. Lol.

[@guaporeturns9472]

@@blueduck9409 nor am I my friend , nor am I ... but I really want to try magnet fishing .. looks cool.

[@greenthumb774]

I have the marlin 30-30 336 XLR stainless steel with the 24inch barrel

[@clayton.harmer8399]

My dad always called the 30 30 a brush gun .. His meaning was it had so much power it didn't matter what was in the line of fire like tree limbs it will do the job

[@jonnwray960]

Spending 32 year in the military, I've fired and qualified with numerous rifles over the years. My all time favorite, durability, able to withstand mud, crud, dust and grit, a temporary wash with a garden hose, and packs a punch out to about 150 yards.........the lever action 30-30! If our country goes belly up, I'm grabbing my 1911, my S&W .40, my .38 revolver, my AR, my 12 gauge, and my 30-30. The rest I'll leave behind, maybe someone who really needs a weapon will find them and put them to good use.

[@koreykilburn5303]

I love my Winchester 30/30. Based on serial numbers it was built in 1959. Back when Winchesters were hand built. I had the Marlin first but sold that one to my brother when I found my Winchester. Love this brush gun. I grew up shooting in the high Sierras. Lots of forest.

[@rolandgold4988]

Lets not forget another reason the 3030 is a popular brush gun, the shape and weight of the projectile makes it less prone to deflection from obstacles. A lighter faster conical projectile will deflect more easily from things such as twigs and leaves. This is actually the same reason that Vietnam vets liked the 7.62 over the 556/223. Great content btw.

[@tonyjackson5115]

I've always heard this and it makes sense. Have you seen any information to back it up? I'd be interested in seeing it tested.

[@SlavicCelery]

@@tonyjackson5115 There's been some testing of "brush gun" ballistics. The results are varied. In general though, the .223/5.56/5.45 sized projectiles are particularly vulnerable to deflection. Any super long and thin round has a greater chance for developing a wobble after contact with something else.

[@JohnSmith-oe5kx]

@@tonyjackson5115This video is interesting m.kzbin.info/www/bejne/hmbHp5htq6aMb6s

[@Gottaculat]

You got me curious, so I opened up my Lyman 50th Edition reloading handbook, and I immediately see a HUGE advantage using a .30-30 Win over a .243 Win from a reloading perspective, and that would be powder consumption. The .30-30 is using in many recipes around 10gn less powder per cartridge than a .243... heck, it's even using less powder than my .303 British rounds (42gn of Winchester 760 ball) I'm running in my Enfield No.4 Mk1*. Granted, the .30-30 can't reach out effectively as far as the .243 or .303, but if you're hunting with less than 100 yard sight lines, being able to save around 10gn or more per shot is incredibly economical. With my .303 Brit, I get about 166 reloads out of 1 pound of powder. With a 28gn load in a .30-30, I can make that same pound stretch out to 250 reloads. That's 84 more reloads per pound (7,000gn) of powder! That's a significant difference! So while the more powerful cartridges are gonna be better for longer range shots, if you know you'll be hunting in close, those more powerful rounds are actually less efficient. A perfect profile shot to the brachial plexus of a deer under 100 yards is lights out regardless of whether you're using a .30-30 or a .243 (or in my case, a .303 Brit), so why not use the more powder efficient, more economical choice? Powder is difficult to find for a good price these days, so if you can get around 84 extra rounds per pound, why not?

[@travisrolison9646]

For even more savings cast your own. Heavy 30-30 doesn't need to be pushed fast like a lot of cartridges which makes it easier to use cast lead.

[@-John-Doe-]

Your velocity and distances have to match. _• 1st, select the projectile with a sectional density appropriate for the game animal._ _• 2nd, select the cartridge that will deliver the appropriate velocity at the expected distances._ Sectional Density & Velocity work in tandem. velocity determines the expansion characteristics of the projectile. An expanding bullet will lose penetration as its sectional density increases. _• Too high of a velocity will cause jacket separation and total fragmentation._ _• Too low of a velocity won’t expand sufficiently in its intended target._ 30-30 provides ideal velocities below fragmentation threshold, which is about 2400 fps. 30-30 with 150 gr .226 SD ammunition has a muzzle velocity of 2390 fps _(24” barrel)_ This provides you with a point blank range on a 4” target of 183 yards. _(PBR zero meaning it will be on that 4” target from the muzzle to 183 yards)_

[@robbiebaker2412]

My go to hunting rifle is still my marlin 30-30. Most of my shots are 100 yards or less so it hits like a sledge hammer. I do have a scope on it but I have the raised scope rings that still allow me to use iron sights. I love it

[@mysticvalleywoodworks2777]

Marlin 30-30 was my first deer 🦌 rifle. At when started hunting at Rice ol age of 21. Im 50 now and still use it every time I hunt the mountains of S.W. Virginia and N.E Tennessee. I also have a savage 270, I use when hunting more open country. Both rifles have served me well.

[@simonacerton3478]

The first 11 seconds of the video show the answer to the question. Easy to carry, accurate, powerful enough and lighting fast. Its just as good as when it was new maybe with some of the newer ammo, just a bit better.

[@dakotawaalkens7303]

this was my first deer rifle. My dad bought it for me at a rummage sale for 65 dollars. I hated the thing at first because of the sights and was jealous of my buddies who had 30-06 and 308 browning rifles. As I have gotten older, I have come to appreciate the simplicity of the model 94. It is well worn with a cracked a stock and some external pitting on the receiver. I took it out a few weeks ago and had a great time on the range. I am strongly considering using it this fall for Wisconsin whitetails. Thank you for your channel. I appreciate your wisdom. keep them coming!

[@MarriedFucker]

Because it is one darn fine round!!!

[@victorferrari7617]

Another fine video Ron. I finally got a Model 94 Winchester a few years back. Seeing The Rifleman back in the 60's made me always want one. I once read a great article about a guy that hunted a pronghorn with a 30-30. It made for a much more challenging hunt, but that just makes it more exciting.

[@Dan-qt7kq]

They are accurate, and reliable. My son just got a deer with his son with my grandfathers 30/30 Marlin.

[@oleboy7615]

I absolutely love my Winchester 1894! The great thing about the .30-30 is that it works! For a 200 yard shot, the .30-30 is hard to beat! Mild recoil, tons of punch, and it’s available. I love it!!!

[@rclaws1347]

I do too.

[@drewfife5169]

I grew up hunting in the thick forests of the Pacific Northwest. This was a great gun for that territory. Rarely do you ever have a shot greater than a 100 yards. It's light, easy to manuver and quick to sight. And if you ever hunted there or anything like it, you'll appreciate that.

[@JohnSmith-oe5kx]

Yup, and the snub-nosed bullets do not deflect much in the brush

[@conradsutton]

Great video, Ron. I bought a Winchester 3030 a few years back at a pawn shop. It was sitting by another W3030, but they were asking $100 more for it. I took the more expensive one, because it was made in 1959, and the cheaper was made in the late 60's, meaning the one I have is made with machined parts, not stamped. In fact, I took it deer hunting this morning for the same reasons you mentioned in this video. I love this little rifle and appreciate your 'ode' to an era of better quality products!

[@waydeglover443]

I love shooting my 30-30 Winchester with the buff sights it's about as accurate as you can get and fun to shoot

[@mjohlinir]

I love that he used the term point blank properly

[@sixpointforge5573]

I just barley got my model 94 30-30 yesterday for my 14th birthday. It was awesome.

[@jamesweise480]

Very well done overview on the .30-30 Winchester cartridge. I have both the Winchester, model 1894 and the Marlin, model 336.

[@DonziGT230]

This is the kind of honesty I really enjoy. "I love the 30-30, but here's why the .243 is better, and I still love the 30-30."

[@jimpeschke3435]

Well said. It also bolsters the notion that ballistic tables aren't the only criteria was apply when choosing a rifle.

[@Bowhunter1300]

“Better” is subjective.

[@jimpeschke3435]

@@Bowhunter1300 That was an empty statement. Ron Spomer expressed his opinion, and you disagree. So what?

[@benjimenfranklin7650]

Another really good brush gun is the 35 Remington . It's great for bush and for short range.

[@KumasKitchen]

I always carried a 30-30 as my saddle rifle. Perfect size and simplicity for the job.

[@thedynamicsolo4232]

I was a little skeptical about the video, but what a find. Very eloquent sir in your delivery and great production value. I was told by a Vietnam veteran to have a 30-30 in my collection, when I asked why he said "it's accurate at 100 yards and 700 yards". That made sense to me. Cheap ammo, good performance and not a lot of money to invest in one. Thank you Ron.