A Slice of History: The Roots of the .45-70
The call of the wild. The rumble of a black powder cartridge. The satisfying click of a lever-action rifle. For over a century, the .45-70 Government round, a true American icon, has resonated with hunters and shooters alike. Its legacy is etched in the annals of frontier history, its performance praised for its power and effectiveness. Today, the demand for this classic cartridge continues to thrive, especially when paired with the elegant simplicity of a lever-action rifle. But in the realm of .45-70 lever guns, a fierce debate often arises: Marlin or Henry? This article dives deep, comparing these two titans of the shooting world to help you decide which lever-action truly reigns supreme.
The Pioneers: The Marlin and Henry Legacies
Before we compare rifles, let’s pay tribute to the cartridge that makes this showdown possible. The .45-70, officially the .45-70 Government, first emerged in 1873. It was designed for the U.S. Army as a replacement for the .50-70 black powder cartridge. The “45” refers to the bullet’s diameter in inches, and the “70” indicates the amount of black powder (in grains) used in the cartridge. This combination created a powerful round, ideally suited for hunting large game and a fearsome presence on the battlefield. Its trajectory might be less flat than more modern rounds, but its stopping power was legendary, and it remains a favorite of hunters in dense forests.
The Pioneers: The Marlin and Henry Legacies
The history of the lever-action rifle is intertwined with the names of both Marlin and Henry. Marlin, a company founded in 1870, soon after the Civil War, quickly became a force in the firearms industry. They refined the lever-action design and, for many years, the Marlin Model 1895 has been a favorite for big-game hunters. It’s known for ruggedness and a reputation for reliability.
Henry Repeating Arms, while a more modern company (founded in 1996), is a direct descendant of the original Henry Repeating Arms Company from the 1860s. Benjamin Tyler Henry’s iconic Henry rifle, born out of the American Civil War, was a predecessor to the Winchester lever action and immediately revolutionized the battlefield. Henry’s commitment to craftsmanship and American-made quality is a cornerstone of their brand, carrying forward the rich history of lever-action rifles.
Unveiling the Details: Examining Key Features
The heart of any lever-action rifle is its design, how it feels, and how it functions. Let’s compare these essential factors for the Marlin and Henry .45-70 rifles.
Design and Aesthetics
A rifle’s looks matter. The first impression can be a powerful one. Marlin rifles, particularly older models, often possess a classic, somewhat rugged aesthetic. They typically feature a blued steel receiver and barrel, paired with a solid wood stock and forend. The lines are clean, functional, and hint at the rifle’s ability to handle harsh conditions. The overall appearance speaks to a no-nonsense approach, emphasizing practicality.
Henry rifles, on the other hand, often exude a more refined and elegant aesthetic. Their brass receivers offer a striking contrast against the blued barrel and wood furniture. The Henry’s receivers are often made of blued steel as well, providing the same contrast with wood stocks. The wood is typically high-grade American Walnut, which provides a beautiful feel and looks. The Henry’s polished finish gives the rifle a richer appearance. The overall look of a Henry rifle is about pride of ownership, with more emphasis on aesthetics and craftsmanship.
Both brands generally use excellent wood, and quality varies with models. Which is “better” depends entirely on individual preference. Some shooters prefer the traditional, workmanlike aesthetic of the Marlin, while others are drawn to the Henry’s more sophisticated look.
Construction and Build Quality
Build quality is essential. Both Marlin and Henry rifles are built to last, but the approaches to construction differ.
Marlin rifles have seen some production changes over the years. Older Marlin rifles, especially those produced before 2007 (or the “Pre-Remington” era), are generally praised for their high build quality, often using high-quality steel and wood. The “Remington” Marlin rifles were often criticized by some for quality control issues. The current manufacture has been taken over by Ruger. The new Marlin rifles should have exceptional build quality, as Ruger has a reputation for quality products.
Henry is known for its meticulous construction and quality control. They often feature tighter tolerances and a commitment to using quality materials, whether brass, steel, or wood. Henry’s quality control is renowned, and their rifles are known for consistent quality. This attention to detail contributes to the rifle’s reliability and longevity.
Action and Operation
The lever-action mechanism is the defining characteristic of these rifles. The smoothness and reliability of the action are crucial.
The Marlin lever-action is known for its ruggedness. Many owners report that it is quick to cycle. However, the design can be prone to jamming if not properly maintained or loaded.
Henry rifles are generally praised for their exceptionally smooth lever-action, described as a delight to cycle. The action is often butter smooth and easy to manipulate, even under stress. The rotary bolt design contributes to its reliability, which allows for a smooth and reliable operation.
Ergonomics and Handling
The way a rifle feels in hand dictates how well you’ll shoot it.
Marlin rifles, particularly the Model 1895, often have a more traditional feel, which has a straight stock. They are usually heavier than some competing rifles.
Henry rifles often have excellent ergonomics, designed for comfortable shooting. The weight distribution is often well-balanced. The design of the stock and forend offers good grip and control. This balance can make the Henry feel more lively and easier to handle for many shooters, even in repeated firings.
Accuracy and Performance
Accuracy is paramount. Both rifles are capable of good accuracy, but with the 45-70 cartridge, it’s generally accepted that you will be making shots under 200 yards.
The Marlin’s accuracy potential is excellent. Some model’s have a proven track record of delivering tight groupings, provided the rifle is properly sighted in, the shooter does their part, and appropriate ammunition is used.
The Henry can be very accurate. When combined with quality ammunition, a skilled shooter can expect excellent results. It’s important to note that the shooter’s technique, the quality of the ammunition, and the sighting system (iron sights or optics) all play significant roles in achieving optimal accuracy with either rifle. The barrel twist rate also plays a factor, influencing how different bullet weights perform.
Magazine Capacity and Loading
How many rounds can you hold? How easy is the loading process?
The Marlin 1895 usually has a tubular magazine, but the capacity can vary depending on the model. Loading is accomplished by pushing rounds directly into the magazine tube. This is a simple and time-tested method.
Henry rifles have a distinct loading process. They load through a loading gate in the side of the receiver or by removing the magazine tube and loading it directly. Some models may have a tube loading process. The Henry loading gate design allows for safe loading and unloading, the method is generally easier to manipulate.
Price and Availability
The price of a rifle is a major factor.
Marlin rifles have, in the past, been available at a moderate price point. Current Marlin models, manufactured by Ruger, are available at a good price point as well, and have excellent value. The availability of used Marlin rifles is generally good.
Henry rifles tend to be positioned at a higher price point. However, the value is reflected in their excellent build quality and craftsmanship. Availability is generally good through various retailers and online platforms.
Aftermarket Support and Customization
The ability to accessorize your rifle is a bonus.
Marlin rifles have a robust aftermarket, with a wide range of accessories available. You can find stocks, sights, rails, and a variety of upgrades. This wide range of accessories is an advantage for those who want to customize their rifles.
Henry also has a good selection of aftermarket accessories. While not as extensive as the Marlin options, you can find scope mounts, sights, and customization options.
Weighing the Pros and Cons
Let’s summarize the strengths and weaknesses of each rifle.
Marlin 45-70
Availability of used models, excellent accuracy potential (depending on the model and the shooter), more traditional aesthetic, and extensive aftermarket support.
Potential for malfunctions, quality issues in some models, and may require some fitting or gunsmithing to reach its full potential, trigger pull may not be as light.
Henry 45-70
Exceptional build quality, smooth and reliable action, outstanding customer service, beautiful aesthetics, and a very high level of reliability.
Higher price point, loading gate loading method might not be preferred by some, and selection of models is less than some competitors.
Making the Right Choice
Which rifle reigns supreme depends on your individual needs. If you prioritize a classic aesthetic, a proven track record, and a wide selection of customization options, the Marlin may be the better choice. If you value exceptional build quality, smooth operation, a more refined appearance, and are willing to pay a premium for it, the Henry might be your preferred choice. Consider how important the loading method is for you. Think about the role the rifle will play. Is it for hunting, target shooting, or collecting?
This decision is not about which rifle is objectively “better.” Both the Marlin and Henry .45-70 rifles offer a rich heritage, a satisfying shooting experience, and the undeniable power of the .45-70 cartridge.
In Conclusion
The competition between the Marlin and Henry .45-70 rifles is a testament to the enduring popularity of the lever-action platform. Both companies have left their mark on the history of firearms. Whether you prefer the rugged reliability of the Marlin or the refined craftsmanship of the Henry, you can’t go wrong with either of these classic lever-action rifles. Ultimately, the best rifle is the one that best suits your shooting style, your hunting needs, and your personal preferences. Consider the factors discussed above, handle both rifles if possible, and make your choice based on your individual needs and goals. Consider adding both to your collection!
