TFB Review: Marlin 1895 Dark 45-70: A Modern Take on a Classic
The lever action rifle market has seen a significant shift with Ruger's acquisition of Marlin. Building upon Marlin's previous Dark series, which introduced tactical elements to traditional lever guns, the new Marlin 1895 Dark 45-70 takes modernization to the next level. This review explores how this reimagined classic meets the demands of today's shooters.
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A Brief History: Marlin Dark Series
Marlin's original Dark series offered basic tactical features like threaded barrels and Picatinny rails on their 30-30 and 45-70 models. However, these earlier versions didn't fully embrace the current trend of highly modernized lever actions featuring skeletonized stocks, M-LOK handguards, and contemporary hardware. The new Marlin 1895 Dark 45-70 addresses this gap, providing a thoroughly updated lever gun experience.
Key Features and Specifications
The Marlin 1895 Dark 45-70 comes equipped with:
- Removable cheek rest
- Ported muzzle device
- Hammer extension
- Thread protector
- M-LOK handguard
- Partially skeletonized stock with M-LOK slots
Detailed specifications include:
- Caliber: 45-70 Government
- Capacity: 5+1
- Stock: Nylon-reinforced polymer
- Material: Alloy steel
- Finish: Satin black
- Sights: Fiber optic front with tritium ring, adjustable ghost ring rear
- Weight: 7 lbs
- Overall length: 35.50"
- Length of pull: 13.50"
- Barrel length: 16.17"
- Barrel: Cold hammer-forged alloy steel
- Thread Pattern: 11/16"-24
- Twist Rate: 1:20" RH
- Grooves: 6
The Marlin 1895 Dark 45-70 carries a hefty MSRP of $1,429, reflecting its modern features and quality manufacturing that does the “old Marlin” proud.
First Impressions
Upon unboxing, the Marlin 1895 Dark 45-70 presents itself as a thoughtful blend of modern and traditional design elements. The rifle avoids excessive skeletonization or rail space, striking a balance between contemporary utility and classic lever gun aesthetics.
The well-fitted handguard and muzzle device contribute to the rifle's updated appearance. While the muzzle device seems primarily cosmetic, it's worth noting that many users will likely opt for suppressor use. The included rail provides a solid foundation for optics mounting, complementing the standard sights.
Suppressing The Marlin 1895 Dark 45-70
As I just mentioned most users will probably opt for throwing a can on this bad boy and I do not blame them in the slightest. Suppressed .30-30 or .45-70 is highly underrated. I had my Dead Air Primal on it most of the time and it's a perfect can for this sort of setup. It's rugged and hefty without being too heavy.
The SilencerCo Hybrid 46 is a mainstay when it comes to anything big bore like this rifle, and it is often bought because you can use it with almost anything. The same can be said for my Primal with that touch of beef. Although it should be mentioned that if anyone desires a lighter option SilencerCo does have their Hybrid 46 DTM which has weight-saving features like titanium accents and parts.
If user serviceable suppressors are your shtick then Griffin has their Bushwacker which comes with all sorts of accessory mounts and tools out of the box. Not to mention the ability to take it apart and clean the pesky lead deposits from your heavy grain cast lead projectiles, bringing that sweet sweet silence to the range. You can pick up a Dead Air Primal, like the one I used for this review, over on SilencerShop.
Dead Air Primal
Range Performance
Testing the Marlin 1895 Dark 45-70 involved evaluating its performance with iron sights, a red dot, and a scope. Ammunition constraints limited the test to about 60 rounds, focusing on accuracy and handling characteristics.
Iron Sights
Using 300-grain Federal Hammerdown ammunition at 25 yards, standing, produced a 3-inch group. The loading gate proved user-friendly, avoiding the thumb-pinching issues common to many lever actions. Initial stiffness in the lever action eased with use, likely due to the lack of pre-range cleaning or lubrication.
Red Dot Optic
A Leupold Delta Point Pro mounted on the rifle yielded a tighter 2-inch group at 25 yards from a rested position. The included cheek riser proved necessary for proper eye alignment with this setup.
Scope Performance
A Riton 1-10x TACTIX scope was easily mounted, though the hammer extension wasn't strictly necessary given the optic's height. At 25 yards, rested, the rifle produced an impressively tight half-inch group.
Pushing out to 75 yards revealed interesting ammunition-dependent results. The Federal Hammerdown ammunition spread to a 4-inch group, while Winchester 300-grain jacketed hollow points clustered nearly into a single hole.
Concluding Thoughts
The Marlin 1895 Dark 45-70 demonstrates impressive out-of-the-box performance, smooth operation, and noteworthy accuracy. While the $1,400 MSRP may give some pause, the rifle's quality and features justify the investment for those seeking a modernized lever action in a potent caliber. For enthusiasts eyeing this model, saving up for it is likely to prove worthwhile given its capabilities and build quality.
TFB is proud to partner with Silencer Shop as our preferred vendor for all of your NFA needs. Whether you are searching for a new suppressor, SBR, or trust, Silencer Shop is here to provide a seamless and fast service for your next NFA purchase. Head over to www.silencershop.com to begin your NFA journey.
Writer | TheFirearmBlogWriter | AllOutdoor.comInstagram | sfsgunsmithOld soul, certified gunsmith, published author, avid firearm history learner, and appreciator of old and unique guns.
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I can see this type of bubbaization on smaller calibers to provide a defense gun in bam states but in 45/70 this is like going to AutoZone and buying every stick-on chrome thingy and decal to make your car a "racer"