Recently this winter, a group of 4 Alaskans ran a fast handling and accuracy trial of Model 71s against bolt action rifles. The experiment
was to be as fair and balanced as possible to insure repeatable results. The shooters then also exchanged rifles,
to give a true picture of all concerned factors in a non-biased venue. The Model 71s were twice as fast as the bolt rifles,
AND were more accurate at the ranges tested.
These riflemen were above average in size, and cycled both types of rifles with all the energy necessary.
One of the factors emerging as possibly needing further testing was barrel length. One rifle was a 458 Win Magnum.
One Model 71 was a 450 Alaskan. Another lever rifle was a Model 71 in 348 WCF.
A Marlin Guide gun in 45-70 with barrel length shading under 20" according to the shooters, was no faster than the bolt guns.
Part of this was due to balance issues and perceived recoil in a shorter package.
Some possible conclusions:
1} 22 inch or the original 24 in barrel may provide extra momentum in the levering reload cycle.
2} The internal design of the original Winchester 1886/Model 71 has designed-in fast handling smooth characteristics
3) 24 in barrels provide more velocity, longer sight radius, and may assist in fast cyclic chambering of additional cartridges
More details may be forthcoming on this rifle comparison.
Last edited by 450Fuller; 02/05/18.
