While I'm a big fan of Marlin's lever actions, and have seriously considered the .45-70 in one on several occassions, the very heavy recoil of any load with anything like 2000 fps. convinced me to look elsewhere for a hunting rifle.
Now, if ringing steel is what you want, Marlin makes several which are excellent and fun for that. Any of their Cowboy Action Rifles would be my first pick. There is, or was, even a long, heavy .45-70 in that line. Other offerings include the .38 Special, the .44 Magnum and the .45 Colt.
You can also step down a tad to the .444 Marlin. Another round in that same class with a little less recoil at 2000 fps. plus.
As a hunting rifle, I've learned over the years that the critters don't follow my preconcieved game plan by standing around at the ranges and under conditions that allow me to shoot my best.
That's why my iron sighted, heavy cover rifle is a Rem 760 in 30'06. Much easier to reach with than the .45-70. E
