Correct! They’ve put out some real dogs, but it’s what some people want. Marlins with all the extra meat in barrels and laminated stocks, big loop levers, tactical rails, and who knows what else are heavy. It’s all extra crap people either like the looks of or think they need. For many of us it’s just weight that adds up and clunkiness that feels poorly in the hand. Some variations like the TK or the Texan are really done right. Others can be made that way with a little work. Just thinning the forend on a Marlin makes a difference. If you get a chance to handle any of the things old 1800/1900s guns you’re bound to notice the differences with the modern ones.
I’d also recommend checking out the .45 colt versions of the 1894. They’re pretty handy and will likely cover the ballistic needs described by the OP.
Last edited by pabucktail; 06/04/19.
