I have a Marlin 1894 lever in .357 magnum ,or 38 Special for plinking, I would really like to have the 45-70 for hunting.
I found a used 45-70 Cowboy a couple of years ago and picked it up to hunt elk when I lived in WA state. Never got the chance to hunt with it but I still use it occasionally for the long range cowboy action side matches.
Kicks the crap out of ya with full power hunting loads but tames down nicely with loads intended for a sharps or trapdoor springfield.
If I was to to use the 45-70 routinely for hunting I’d probably go with a guide model and make sure it’s compensated. Looking for one to use when I move back to WA.
Can ya’ll tell I love my marlins?