NRA Gun Of The Week: Marlin Firearms Model 1895 SBL

by
posted on February 25, 2022

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

Guns Of Edward Maynard
Guns Of Edward Maynard

The Guns Of Dr. Maynard

Dr. Edward Maynard, a Washington, D.C.-based dentist, developed a number of mechanical innovations for firearms, including a new ignition system and a cavalry carbine that saw use in the American Civil War.

Preview: Holosun P.ID Dual

Holosun’s P.ID line of weapon lights is compatible with nearly any pistol featuring a Picatinny rail thanks to a pair of interchangeable mounting adapters.

New For 2025: TriStar Arms Protégé X Sub Compact

TriStar Arms expanded its handgun offerings with the M1911-style Protégé X Sub Compact chambered in 9 mm Luger.

Preview: Federal Hi-Bird Fiber Wad Bismuth

When it comes to hunting, knockdown power matters, and so does being friendly on the environment, which is where Federal’s Hi-Bird Fiber Wad Bismuth loads come into play.

Gun Of The Week: Iver Johnson MF20

In this video, we’re taking a closer look at an AR-style, semi-automatic shotgun that’s made in Turkey by Izmir Armed and carries the name of an iconic American firearm manufacturer. This is the Iver Johnson MF20.

The Armed Citizen® June 13, 2025

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

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.