Choosing between a Marlin 1895 Guide Gun in .45-70 Government and a Henry Big Boy in the same caliber is a decision many prospective buyers face. Both are lever-action rifles known for their power and reliability, but they cater to slightly different needs and preferences. This in-depth comparison will help you decide which is the right fit for you.
Key Differences: Marlin 1895 Guide Gun vs. Henry Big Boy
The core differences boil down to several key areas: receiver design, overall length and weight, sights, stock, features, and ultimately intended use.
Receiver Design and Action
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Marlin 1895 Guide Gun: Features a top-ejecting receiver, meaning spent cartridges are ejected upwards. This is a classic design, but can sometimes lead to slightly more forceful ejection. The action is known for its robust build and smooth operation, though some users report a slightly stiffer action compared to the Henry. The Marlin also uses a solid top receiver which can be advantageous for mounting scopes.
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Henry Big Boy: Employs a side-ejecting receiver, a design that many find more convenient, especially when shooting from a prone position or in tight quarters. The spent casings eject to the side, away from the shooter's face. The action is generally considered smoother and easier to cycle than the Marlin.
Length, Weight, and Handling
| Feature | Marlin 1895 Guide Gun (.45-70) | Henry Big Boy (.45-70) |
|---|---|---|
| Barrel Length | 18.5 inches | 20 inches |
| Overall Length | ~36 inches | ~40 inches |
| Weight | ~7.5 pounds | ~8.5 pounds |
The shorter barrel on the Marlin 1895 Guide Gun contributes to its more compact and maneuverable nature, making it ideal for navigating dense brush or tighter spaces. The Henry Big Boy, being slightly longer and heavier, offers potentially better accuracy and less felt recoil due to the longer barrel. However, it sacrifices some maneuverability.
Sights and Optics
Both rifles typically come standard with iron sights, though their designs differ. The Marlin often features a blade front sight and a semi-buckhorn rear sight. The Henry Big Boy might offer adjustable rear sights for more precise windage and elevation adjustments. Both rifles can be equipped with scopes or other optics, although mounting options vary. The solid top receiver of the Marlin often makes scope mounting easier than on the Henry’s tube-style receiver.
Stock and Ergonomics
Both the Marlin and Henry offer stocks made of wood or synthetic materials. The shape and feel will vary depending on the model and finish. However, individual preferences heavily influence which stock design is more comfortable. Consider handling both rifles before committing to a purchase.
Features and Variations
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Marlin 1895 Guide Gun: Known for its shorter barrel, making it ideal for hunters needing maneuverability in dense brush. Versions with different stock materials and finishes are also available.
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Henry Big Boy: Offers a wider range of variations, including different barrel lengths, finishes (steel, brass, etc.), and even caliber options beyond the .45-70. This makes it a more versatile option for various shooting disciplines.
Intended Use Cases
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Marlin 1895 Guide Gun: Excels as a hunting rifle for close-to-medium range in wooded areas where maneuverability is crucial. Its compact size and power make it a potent choice for big game.
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Henry Big Boy: A more versatile option suitable for hunting, target shooting, and even Cowboy Action Shooting, depending on the specific model chosen. The longer barrel can contribute to slightly better accuracy at longer ranges.
Ammunition Considerations: 45-70 Government
The .45-70 Government cartridge is known for its power. This cartridge delivers substantial stopping power, making it effective for hunting large game. However, it also generates significant recoil. It's crucial to practice proper shooting technique and use appropriate hearing and eye protection when shooting .45-70.
Conclusion: Which Rifle is Right for You?
The best choice between the Marlin 1895 Guide Gun and the Henry Big Boy .45-70 depends on individual needs and preferences.
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Choose the Marlin 1895 Guide Gun if:
- You prioritize maneuverability and compactness.
- You need a robust rifle for hunting in thick brush.
- You prefer a top-ejecting action.
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Choose the Henry Big Boy if:
- You value versatility and a wider range of options.
- You prefer a smoother action and side ejection.
- You want a potentially more accurate rifle for longer ranges.
Ultimately, handling both rifles and considering your specific intended use is the best way to make an informed decision. Remember to prioritize safety and practice responsible gun ownership.