I picked up a used Marlin 1894 in 44 Mag from my gun store today, and paid $599 out the door. Mine was made in 2019, so it's indeed a so-called Remlin, but the quality seems to be excellent. My other Marlin is a 1894CS in 357 Mag from 1997, made in North Haven CT. I've always enjoyed the solid feel of the Marlin lever action compared to the Winchester offerings. Between Marlin and Henry, I don't think that you can go wrong with either.
What's odd is the Marlin 1894 I bought used says on the barrel that is was made in North Haven CT but has a Remington "REP" proof stamp on the barrel, does that mean they kept putting together JM made rifles but stamping it with the Remington "REP" mark on the barrel? It's also pretty good quality with the fit and finish, unfortunately it has a couple small spots on the barrel where the finish is worn off but I think I can touch it up with cold blue, I got it for a decent price.
Thanks for the video, I've been hoping to see one of the comparison for a while. I have a Marlin 1894 Cowboy Limited in .44 Magnum that I bought back in 1997, I think. It has the 24" Octagon barrel with JM stamp, blade front sight with brass bead and the semi buckhorn rear sight, but the rear sight has two differences from your buckhorn sight. Mine does not fold down and it has an adjustment screw on the right front side for windage. The white diamond is on an insert and can be slid from side to side if needed. I love this rifle! I've used it for deer hunting and target shooting, it has been a rock solid performer. I originally bought it for Cowboy Action Shooting, along with a Ruger Bisley Vaquero in .44 MAG, and a Liberty II Coach Gun in 12GA made by KBI. I ended up not getting into the CASS events back then, and have recently been toying with the idea again. So.... I ordered the new Henry Big Boy with side gate in Case Color Hardened Finish (.44 MAG of course) and should be receiving it within a few days. After I put on the big loop, I'll have to do a comparison to see which is the better shooter. I believe the Henry will be a serious match for my trusty Marlin, so with the Case Color Hardening on the new rifle, it will pair perfectly with my Ruger pistol and my Liberty Coach gun. I've also been considering a Skinner Peep sight, but don't know if that would be acceptable in the CASS matches. Anyway thanks for the video I really enjoyed it. Mike
I don't believe ghost ring sights are legal in cowboy action. I need to get one more Vaquero to complete my cowboy set. I'm really interested to see what Ruger comes out with when they finally release the new Marlin rifles. I would love to get my hands on one.
@@redneckmini14 I did a little research and found that "Tang mounted rear sights may utilize changeable “peep” apertures and eyecups", however, it also states "No bolt or receiver mounted sight is permitted". So I guess the skinner "peep" sights are not legal for SASS competition. The rules I found are fairly restrictive so any modifications to the weapons would have to be something that could be easily changed out so that the gun could be used in the matches. Technically the skinner sights could be added to my rifle, but not for use in any of the SASS events so I'd have to keep the factory rear buckhorn sights in place and remove the skinners before entering the events. I guess I could have one of my rifles set up for competition and the other for range use.
@@MichaelSmith-js5wq Also most of the Henry rifles have rubber butt pads which IIRC are not SASS legal. They have SASS models but those do not have the side gate.
@@mkshffr4936 I hadn't seen that, but then again, I honestly didn't look that deep. Yeah, my Henry has the butt pad and even though it really isn't necessary (especially when using .44 Spcl Cowboy loads like those used in matches), I'm not going to remove my pad. As for the side gate models, I've been told by a local gun range owner that the SASS organizers may allow the new models with the side gate in certain competition strings. However, he did add that he wasn't positive on that. There is a club around here that used to conduct CAS events a few years back, so I'll have to check with them to see what I can find out. I appreciate the good gouge. Aim small shoot small.
Great rifles as I think Henry's are better but I do like my father's 1991 Marlin .3030 as it has a butter smooth lever action....Nice comparison vid as enjoy those beauties.....Good stuff....
I'm a Marlin guy, I've had an old 1894 in .357 for a long time, and it's WONDERFUL and cycles slick as can be. I've wanted an 1894 SBL in both .357 and .44 for a while now, but didn't want to shell out for what might be subpar due to Remington's QC problems. Now that they're making them again after the Ruger merger, they're definitely both following me home one day soon. I've shot Henry rifles, and there's no doubt that they're VERY nice, but I like how the Marlins look more and with the 1894, I like how the bolt design not only stays cleaner, but is easier to clean to boot. I've always hated the safety on the Marlin, though, and wished they'd just do a half-cock and transfer bar arrangement, because I feel that's not only safest but simplest and cleanest-looking. I'm with you on unloading, cycling them through makes me feel way better than putting my hand in front of the muzzle. Initial loading up with the tube opening is faster and easier, though, so now that the steel-receiver Henry rifles have a side gate, they're unquestionably the winners on that front, not to mention it makes cleaning the magazine tube SUPER easy. Also, the color case hardened receiver Henry rifles are GORGEOUS, and I've heard that hard layer on the receiver slicks them up even more. I REALLY wish Marlin would offer this. Anyone would do very well with either, particularly in the Marlin's case with an older (pre-Remington) or brand new (post-Ruger) rifle, Henry rifles have always been very nice quality as far as I've ever known.
I'm with you. I personally like the look of the Marlin receiver better, but both brands are great rifles. I can't wait to see what Marlin (Ruger) comes out with next. I'm also kind of excited about some of these new offerings coming out from Henry this year. I really wish I wasn't poor because I would buy them all.
@@redneckmini14 Agreed. A damn shame all the good old mechanical firearms are so damn expensive. I get it, there's a lot of machine/fitting work involved, it's just a bummer that all the revolvers and lever guns I love are so expensive that I can only justify buying one like every couple years, haha!
@@The_sinner_Jim_Whitney It has been a while since I bought a new gun. I'm itching to get something, but all the guns I'm interested in are out of stock at my gun store's suppliers. I want a Vaquero or something like one of these rifles, but all they can seem to get are semiautos.
@@The_sinner_Jim_Whitney I just know a lot of dealers around here will rip you off on price, so I really only shop with one gun store anymore because they always give you a fair price, but a lot of their suppliers are just out of stock of everything that isn't semiauto or tacticool.
@@mkshffr4936 The disassembly to take the bolt, lever, and ejector out should be the same. I have never taken the stocks off of these two rifles to see the inner workings. I know the Henry has a transfer bar that rides in the hammer, but other than that, I would imagine they are pretty similar.
I haven't shot the Henry yet, so I can't answer that, but the Marlin is accurate enough to hit water jugs at 20 yards or so. That is really all I have done with it, and that is all the more accurate I need it to be because I just bought it to have fun with.
@@redneckmini14 I think a lot of us are in the same boat. I have shot some .22 a bit and my shotgun even less. Hopefully things will get better soon. I'm starting to see more guns and some more ammo locally now. But I really couldn't get hardly anything before. And the prices were nuts.
@@redneckmini14 any update on which one you are enjoying more ? Looking at getting a Henry in .44 or a marlin … how is accuracy and longer term use looking now ?
Thanks for the vid, I love my Marlin 336 in 30-30, but I've been drooling over a Henry in .357...
I'm loving this 45 Colt.
Very informative, thank you! I love my Marlins but will be branching out to Henry soon. Damn, vacuum that blanket lol
I picked up a used Marlin 1894 in 44 Mag from my gun store today, and paid $599 out the door. Mine was made in 2019, so it's indeed a so-called Remlin, but the quality seems to be excellent. My other Marlin is a 1894CS in 357 Mag from 1997, made in North Haven CT. I've always enjoyed the solid feel of the Marlin lever action compared to the Winchester offerings. Between Marlin and Henry, I don't think that you can go wrong with either.
My Marlin is a pretty new one as well and it is pretty decent quality.
What's odd is the Marlin 1894 I bought used says on the barrel that is was made in North Haven CT but has a Remington "REP" proof stamp on the barrel, does that mean they kept putting together JM made rifles but stamping it with the Remington "REP" mark on the barrel? It's also pretty good quality with the fit and finish, unfortunately it has a couple small spots on the barrel where the finish is worn off but I think I can touch it up with cold blue, I got it for a decent price.
I've always unloaded my tube loaders in my hat, always been used to them because had a 39A since I was a kid
Thanks for the video, I've been hoping to see one of the comparison for a while. I have a Marlin 1894 Cowboy Limited in .44 Magnum that I bought back in 1997, I think. It has the 24" Octagon barrel with JM stamp, blade front sight with brass bead and the semi buckhorn rear sight, but the rear sight has two differences from your buckhorn sight. Mine does not fold down and it has an adjustment screw on the right front side for windage. The white diamond is on an insert and can be slid from side to side if needed.
I love this rifle! I've used it for deer hunting and target shooting, it has been a rock solid performer. I originally bought it for Cowboy Action Shooting, along with a Ruger Bisley Vaquero in .44 MAG, and a Liberty II Coach Gun in 12GA made by KBI. I ended up not getting into the CASS events back then, and have recently been toying with the idea again. So....
I ordered the new Henry Big Boy with side gate in Case Color Hardened Finish (.44 MAG of course) and should be receiving it within a few days. After I put on the big loop, I'll have to do a comparison to see which is the better shooter. I believe the Henry will be a serious match for my trusty Marlin, so with the Case Color Hardening on the new rifle, it will pair perfectly with my Ruger pistol and my Liberty Coach gun. I've also been considering a Skinner Peep sight, but don't know if that would be acceptable in the CASS matches. Anyway thanks for the video I really enjoyed it.
Mike
I don't believe ghost ring sights are legal in cowboy action. I need to get one more Vaquero to complete my cowboy set. I'm really interested to see what Ruger comes out with when they finally release the new Marlin rifles. I would love to get my hands on one.
@@redneckmini14 I did a little research and found that "Tang mounted rear sights may utilize changeable “peep” apertures and eyecups", however, it also states "No bolt or receiver mounted sight is permitted". So I guess the skinner "peep" sights are not legal for SASS competition.
The rules I found are fairly restrictive so any modifications to the weapons would have to be something that could be easily changed out so that the gun could be used in the matches. Technically the skinner sights could be added to my rifle, but not for use in any of the SASS events so I'd have to keep the factory rear buckhorn sights in place and remove the skinners before entering the events. I guess I could have one of my rifles set up for competition and the other for range use.
@@MichaelSmith-js5wq Also most of the Henry rifles have rubber butt pads which IIRC are not SASS legal. They have SASS models but those do not have the side gate.
@@mkshffr4936 I hadn't seen that, but then again, I honestly didn't look that deep. Yeah, my Henry has the butt pad and even though it really isn't necessary (especially when using .44 Spcl Cowboy loads like those used in matches), I'm not going to remove my pad. As for the side gate models, I've been told by a local gun range owner that the SASS organizers may allow the new models with the side gate in certain competition strings. However, he did add that he wasn't positive on that. There is a club around here that used to conduct CAS events a few years back, so I'll have to check with them to see what I can find out.
I appreciate the good gouge. Aim small shoot small.
Henry is really nice quality but the buckhorn sights are no good for my eyes
Great rifles as I think Henry's are better but I do like my father's 1991 Marlin .3030 as it has a butter smooth lever action....Nice comparison vid as enjoy those beauties.....Good stuff....
Yeah they are both pretty good rifles.
I'm a Marlin guy, I've had an old 1894 in .357 for a long time, and it's WONDERFUL and cycles slick as can be. I've wanted an 1894 SBL in both .357 and .44 for a while now, but didn't want to shell out for what might be subpar due to Remington's QC problems. Now that they're making them again after the Ruger merger, they're definitely both following me home one day soon.
I've shot Henry rifles, and there's no doubt that they're VERY nice, but I like how the Marlins look more and with the 1894, I like how the bolt design not only stays cleaner, but is easier to clean to boot. I've always hated the safety on the Marlin, though, and wished they'd just do a half-cock and transfer bar arrangement, because I feel that's not only safest but simplest and cleanest-looking.
I'm with you on unloading, cycling them through makes me feel way better than putting my hand in front of the muzzle. Initial loading up with the tube opening is faster and easier, though, so now that the steel-receiver Henry rifles have a side gate, they're unquestionably the winners on that front, not to mention it makes cleaning the magazine tube SUPER easy.
Also, the color case hardened receiver Henry rifles are GORGEOUS, and I've heard that hard layer on the receiver slicks them up even more. I REALLY wish Marlin would offer this.
Anyone would do very well with either, particularly in the Marlin's case with an older (pre-Remington) or brand new (post-Ruger) rifle, Henry rifles have always been very nice quality as far as I've ever known.
I'm with you. I personally like the look of the Marlin receiver better, but both brands are great rifles. I can't wait to see what Marlin (Ruger) comes out with next. I'm also kind of excited about some of these new offerings coming out from Henry this year. I really wish I wasn't poor because I would buy them all.
@@redneckmini14 Agreed. A damn shame all the good old mechanical firearms are so damn expensive. I get it, there's a lot of machine/fitting work involved, it's just a bummer that all the revolvers and lever guns I love are so expensive that I can only justify buying one like every couple years, haha!
@@The_sinner_Jim_Whitney It has been a while since I bought a new gun. I'm itching to get something, but all the guns I'm interested in are out of stock at my gun store's suppliers. I want a Vaquero or something like one of these rifles, but all they can seem to get are semiautos.
@@redneckmini14 I assume any dealer could get you whatever you wanted, are you averse to waiting? My Vacquero in .45 is AWESOME.
@@The_sinner_Jim_Whitney I just know a lot of dealers around here will rip you off on price, so I really only shop with one gun store anymore because they always give you a fair price, but a lot of their suppliers are just out of stock of everything that isn't semiauto or tacticool.
Great video.
Thanks.
Marlin 336 is the bass model and basically the same action as the Henry rifles . The Marlin 1984 is a completely different Action.
It's not a "completely" different action. It is similar enough to compare. It is not like it is a Winchester. That is a completely different action.
@@redneckmini14 Is the disassembly for deep cleaning the same for both rifles?
@@mkshffr4936 The disassembly to take the bolt, lever, and ejector out should be the same. I have never taken the stocks off of these two rifles to see the inner workings. I know the Henry has a transfer bar that rides in the hammer, but other than that, I would imagine they are pretty similar.
which tends to be more accurate?
I haven't shot the Henry yet, so I can't answer that, but the Marlin is accurate enough to hit water jugs at 20 yards or so. That is really all I have done with it, and that is all the more accurate I need it to be because I just bought it to have fun with.
@@redneckmini14 OK Thanks for getting back to me.
@@bigben9379 Unfortunately I haven't been doing much shooting at all because of the ammo shortage. Trying to conserve my ammo.
@@redneckmini14 I think a lot of us are in the same boat. I have shot some .22 a bit and my shotgun even less. Hopefully things will get better soon. I'm starting to see more guns and some more ammo locally now. But I really couldn't get hardly anything before. And the prices were nuts.
@@redneckmini14 any update on which one you are enjoying more ? Looking at getting a Henry in .44 or a marlin … how is accuracy and longer term use looking now ?
I think the Henry is much better looking. The forestock on the Marlin looks hideous!
I think it looks alright.
BTW, my Marlin is a 1977, so (I think) pre- Remington fuckery....
Yeah this one was made by Remington, but I don't have any real complaints. It functions just fine for me.
If you say Ummmm one more time, I’m going to shove a icepick into my ears.
Go for it. no one is stopping you.