Marlin 1894 44-40
Marlin 1894 44-40
Marlin
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Model / Origin: Marlin Model 1894 lever‑action rifle, classic American design (late 19th century origins; many modern reproductions).
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Chambering: .44‑40 Winchester (also called 44 WCF / .44‑40) — one of the original bottlenecked lever‑gun cartridges.
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Action type: Side‑ejecting lever action with tubular magazine (smooth, fast cycling ideal for lever guns).
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Barrel & Lengths: Typically offered in a range of barrel lengths depending on variant; barrel length affects velocity and point‑of‑impact.
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Magazine capacity: Tubular magazine — capacity typically ranges by model and barrel length (commonly ~6–10 rounds).
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Sights / Optics: Often equipped with a blade front and adjustable rear (buckhorn or semibuckhorn); many owners fit side‑mount bases or receiver rings for scopes.
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Stock: Usually walnut or synthetic options; straight or pistol‑grip styles available on different trims.
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Typical bullet weights: Common factory and handload bullets are in the 200–220 grain range (also 180–240 gr seen).
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Typical muzzle velocity (approximate ranges):
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200 gr ≈ 1,000–1,300 ft/s (varies with barrel length and load).
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216–220 gr ≈ 950–1,200 ft/s.
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Typical muzzle energy (approximate):
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200 gr @ 1,200 fps ≈ ~640 ft·lb.
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200 gr @ 1,000 fps ≈ ~444 ft·lb.
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216 gr @ 1,200 fps ≈ ~690 ft·lb.
(Energy will vary with exact bullet weight, powder and barrel length.)
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Performance / Use: Excellent for close‑to‑moderate range hunting (deer, hogs, medium game at typical lever‑gun ranges), cowboy action shooting, and plinking. Pointable, quick follow‑up shots are a strength.
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Ammunition availability: .44‑40 remains commercially available in modern factory loads and is popular with handloaders; brass is common for reloading.
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Reloading notes & safety: Many owners handload for best accuracy. Because some vintage rifles were proofed for lower pressures, always verify your rifle’s condition and designated pressure limits before using modern smokeless loads — consult a reputable reloading manual or gunsmith. Do not use high‑pressure magnum loads intended for modern, strong actions unless the rifle is specifically rated for them.
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Maintenance / inspection: Check bore, extractor, magazine spring, and timing of the lever/bolt; keep action clean and lubricated. For antique examples, verify headspace and have a gunsmith inspect before regular use.
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Collector notes: Original finish, matching serials, correct sights/stocks, and good bore condition raise collector value. Many shooters prefer a quality used vintage piece or modern reproduction depending on intended use.
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Practical tip: For a classic lever‑gun experience and reliable field performance, choose bullet weights and loads appropriate to barrel length and always prioritize safety checks on older firearms.
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