The HSM and Buffalo Bore loads that are zeroed to 50y using the ghost ring sight will hit center at 100y when using the buckhorn sight.

I handled it, worked the smooth lever action, and then tried the trigger.

I was sold on it then and there, and acquired it via cash on the barrelhead, so to speak.

Since then, it has been my go-to rifle for trips into areas where I know I could run into an ornery moose or bear around any corner.

Recoil from the cowboy loads is about at the level of a.22lr (non-existent), Hornadys Leverevolution rounds feel like a.223, and the.457 Alaskan and Buffalo Bore Magnum loads feel pretty stout, about like a 12ga.

It is during the follow-through on these loads that I really appreciate the big loop lever, as a standard lever would probably rap my knuckles.

Even when shooting the heavier, faster loads, the rifle remains comfortable and handy.

One can cycle the bolt quickly and follow-up shots are facile.

The trigger happy kit from WWG is a massive improvement in comparison to normal lever action triggers.

The break is clean and crisp, and the trigger doesnt wobble around all over the place like on my regular marlin.

The safety clicks on and off nearly silently, with only 7 lbs of pressure required.

Though being smooth and quiet, it stays in place either on or off safe.

I can tell a ton of attention and craftsmanship was put into this rifle.

To take it apart, unload and check the chamber, and with the bolt all the way rearward unscrew a knurled knob that connects the magazine tube to the barrel.

I have not experienced any zero shift after breaking the rifle down and reassembling it.

I prefer to use the ghost ring for the most part, though the buckhorn sight provides additional accuracy for longer-range shots with certain loads.

The improved trajectory and accuracy has been a real asset, and I would be comfortable hunting out to 200 yards with this load.

The Black Hills cowboy loads are the most pleasant to shoot all day long, though they do create quite a bit of fouling.

The Buffalo Bore.45-70 Magnum loads are very hard-hitting, with muzzle energy of from an 18.5 barrel at 50 yards of around 3000 ftlbs.

These are the loads I carry when I am in moose or bear territory.

Unfortunately, the.457 WWG loads from HSM are not up to the quality of this rifle.

The accuracy inconsistencies are unacceptable for anything other than range use.

They were the only.457 loads available when I purchased the rifle, and I will not purchase them again.

Thankfully, Cor-Bon makes.457WWG loads as of 2013 and I will get some when Im done with this lot of HSM.

Marlin Barrel Code