I just picked up a 1973 made Marlin 1895 45-70 for $440. I would say it is in very good condition. The bluing is worn right at the balance spot from carrying, otherwise it is in pretty good shape. It also has a Williams receiver sight which was exactly what I wanted.
I think you did well!!! Sounds like a good one!!!
I cleaned it up last night and the barrel is bright and shiny with no discernable wear. I looked at the bolt face and it almost looks like a new gun that hasn't been fired. I think I found one that has been carried a lot, but shot little.
When we were kids back when them rifles came out, my compadre snagged one about that vintage. It was back in the early/ mid 70's. He made some impressive shots with it. But then we could see in them days too!
I wouldn't hesitate to buy one at that price.
Congratulations on a great find!
I was wrong. It is actually a 1972 model and it is one of the first few thousand made and has Ballard rifling instead of microgroove. I shot it yesterday and it was the first time I had ever really shot a 45-70 except for a few cowboy loads in an old trapdoor. I had some of the Hornady Leverevolutions. Recoil was stout but not unpleasant. Actually is was a lot of fun to shoot.
It was fun to see the effect of those big bullets. I had an old computer tower that I just demolished. Once at about 60 yards I actually knocked it over. When you consider that it probably weighs twenty pounds, that was pretty impressive.
JoeBob. load that puppy up with 405g cast over trailboss and you will be in love.
dang good price too! especially for a pre safety, ballard rifled.
