NRA Gun Of The Week: Marlin Firearms Model 1895 SBL

American Rifleman Staff

posted on February 25, 2022

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Marlin Firearms are in production again and despite some transitional hiccups behind the scenes, the first Ruger-made Marlin comes from the stable, horse and rider included, as the 1895 SBL. Watch the video above to see this newest lever-action rifle in use on the range.

The 1895 SBL ships from Marlin Firearms with a 19” barrel made of 410-grade stainless steel. Given the fact that Marlin’s 1895 comes chambered for the .45-70 Government cartridge, each gun is equipped with a 1:20” Right-Hand twist, cold hammer-forged barrel. The forged barrel-making and rifling process leaves users with high-quality design that is capable of producing incredible accuracy.

Taking over the Marlin brand was an extraordinary feat. The powerhouse engineering firm prevailed and even took few extra steps along the way to rope in improvements, giving the classic repeater modern functionality and some extra good looks. Our test sample shipped with a gray and black, laminated wood furniture with laser-engraved checkering, recoil pad and sling swivels.

On the range with the Ruger-made Marlin Firearms 1895 SBL our testers found that the action performed flawlessly. The generous section of Picatinny rail is a handy feature from the factory and the rear adjustable sight aperture, with adjustability, blends well with the HIVIZ post front unit that contains tritium for enhanced low-light performance. It is important to note that the included Picatinny rail ranges beyond the stainless steel receiver, extending onto the barrel to allow for scout-type optic arrangements.

Man in black shirt ballcap earmuffs shooting rifle stainless steel carbine lever-action Marlin Firearms 1895 SBL

To learn more about the Marlin Firearms 1895 SBL lever-action rifle, please visit marlinfirearms.com.

Marlin Firearms Model 1895 SBL Specifications
Manufacturer: Marlin Firearms
Model: 70478
Action Type: lever-aciton, centerfire, repeating rifle
Chambering: .45-70 Gov't
Receiver: 416 stainless steel
Barrel: 19" stainless steel, 11/16" x 24 TPI
Sights: adjustable aperture rear; HIVIZ tritium post front
Stock: wood laminate; gray and black
Overall Length: 37.25"
Weight:7 lbs., 4 ozs.
MSRP: $1,399

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