NRA Gun Of The Week: Marlin Firearms Model 1895 SBL

by
posted on February 25, 2022
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **

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.

gray and black laminated wood gunstock with checkering diamond and horse/rider Marlin Firearms logo

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

Latest

EDC handguns
EDC handguns

Honest EDC: A Realistic Assessment of Your Concealed Carry Kit

The problem is not that most concealed-carry loadouts are bad. The problem is that most concealed-carry kits are never re-examined against reality.

The Rideout Arsenal Dragon: Thinking Way Outside The Box

Over the years, many designers have attempted to use a low-bore axis to result in a flat-shooting pistol. One of these attempts, the Rideout Arsenal Dragon, is now more than a concept. It’s on the market.

The Armed Citizen® June 8, 2026

Read today's "The Armed Citizen" entry for real stories of law-abiding citizens, past and present, who used their firearms to save lives.

Inside Today's Super-Short Riflescopes: What You Gain & What You Lose

Several new "super-short" riflescopes have hit the market recently, and they've become popular. But what are you giving up in these compact dimensions...and what are you gaining?

Pro Shop: 5 Must-Have Accessories For Your Silencers

Suppressors are hot—in more than one sense of the word. Here are five extra accessories that will make silenced shooting a whole lot easier and more enjoyable.

Storm on the Horizon: US Palm's Storm Cat4 Rifles & Pistols

Known primarily for its line of AK-platform accessories, this year, US Palm branched out with a full line of AR-style rifles and pistols, all of which have a unique feature set.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.