Home Forums Lever Action Central Lever Actions - General Accurate commercial ammo recommendations for Marlin 1894 in 44 Mag

Hi all,

I just put a deposit on a "21" prefix (1979) 1894 in 44 magnum.
I have long heard about their oversized bores / picky ammo requirements.
Before I start loading for it, I was wondering if there is any loaded ammo out there with .431 or .432 suitable for use in such a rifle.
Yes, ill slug my bore before I load anything like that. Don't have a lot of time to devote to load development that's all.

Any info or advice appreciated,
Kragman

You probably will find best accuracy with 240 and lighter bullets, from what I have seen. Microgroove and slow twist prefer short bullets. Its a waste of time to try the solid copper in it, such as Barnes. The bullets are too long, even 200 gn. and shoot salad plate sized groups.
240 XTP would be a good bet to start.
Best thing is to bore foam the bore for about 24 hours, if it is used. You never know the history of what was shot through it or how it was cleaned. The microgrooves don't shoot well if fouled bad.

Many on the Marlinowners forum as well as me have good luck with the white box Winchester 240’s.

Mine love Hornady 240gr soft points.

White box Winchester 240's are a great place to start. Dang good terminal performance on deer, too.

I wouldn't have guessed WBW. Thanks for the tip guys.

Anyone having good luck with Magtech 240's?