Browning 1886 SRC or Marlin Guide Gun?

[RIFLE MAN]

Here's a good question just waiting for an answer. What is your opinion...
which is the "better" all-around rifle: the Browning 1886 SRC pr the Marlin Guide Gun, both chambered for the 45-70 cartridge? What are the reasons for your answer?

Much appreciation,
Rifle Man  

[John Y Cannuck]

I have an original 1886. I like it, so I'd go with the Browning.

[John Traveler]

I lusted for a Browning/Winchester M1886 for a long time, and was unable to find one in a condition and price that I was willing to pay.

I got the Marlin 1895 as a second-choice, and after shooting, reloading, and tinkering with it for the last three years I will have to admit that it is "OKAY", but lacks the smoothness and design details of the M1886 Winchester that have endeared it to several generations of big-bore shooters.

I would go for the M1886 Browning if I had to do it all over again.

[Lloyd Smale]

the marlin is a great gun for the money! But I guess if the funds were unlimited the browning would be in my cabinet or better yet a real winchester.

[ButlerFord45]

I have an 86 in rifle config. and am lusting for a SRC to go with it.  It wouuld take dire cirumstances for it to be pried from my posession and it would be the last one to go, but to answer your question as to which would be the "best all round" I believe it would be the marlin.  Take down for cleaning is much easier with the marlin, minor repairs and 'smithing is much easier with the marlin.  If I were to bang up a marlin, I'd fuss a bit then hang it back on the rack.  If I were to bang up the '86, I sit and cry big 'ol crockadile tears.

[Cabin4]

I have never owned or lusted after the Browning. I can only tell you my experiace with the Guide Gun that I own.

It is an outstanding value in a hunting rifle. I find it to be very accurate considering the 18.5 inch bbl. I consistantly get 1 to 1.5 inch groups at 100yards using a 4x power scope. Nothing to complain about at all. In fact, using factory ammo and a 4x power scope, I can't belive the accuracy. Image what custom handloading and a 7x or better scope could produce ! However, in this configuration, a 4x is needed.

It has decent walnut and an excellant fit. Blue finish is good by todays standards. Never had a problem with it other than the action was a bit stiff when new and with a little polishing that was resolved.

For $417 brand new, its hard to beat.

Good luck

[Enforcer]

In my opinion based on 20yrs of lever action collecting,handloading,shooting and hunting all over the US and outside(Mexico,Canada,Italy,India,South America).I will also be hunting in Africa this Feb.I choose the Win M1886 hands down.I just had a 510 Kodiak Express built on the Win M1886.Why?Because my gunsmith said its  stronger,higher quality and just a better all around rifle.Nothing against Marlin levers.I have 8 of them.I just prefer the Winchesters.Whether it be Win M88,Win M71 or Win M1895.Winchester always gets my vote!      


Enforcer

[mazarelo]

I picked up two, both unfired and in the box.  One to keep and one to trade/sell.
  Looking at trades first.  Been looking for a nice 35 whelen in a win mod 70, mauser,
 or maybe an 03.  Let me know what you got.
email me at 4570gov@realguns.com

-mike

[Hook]

Rifle Man, I have both! They are both great. The Marlin is by far the best value if having a hunting rifle chambered to 45-70 is your goal. The Brownchester 1886 SRC is a pure delight to own. It cycles and locks up like a bank vault door. Both shoot great, but the Marlin can be easily scoped. If you have old eyes like me, that can be a serious difference.

I lusted after an 1886 since the early 60's when a buddy and I used to sneak his granddad's original 1886 out and shoot it. It was heaven to a coupla 14 year olds. Every since then I've had my eye open for one and finally ran across a deal I could swing three years ago. Haven't regreted it for a second.

[Dakota Confederate]

Well I have a Browning 1886 SRC and I LOVE it!!!  I thought about getting a Marlin 1895 before and the wife sure loves the looks and feel of the stainless guide gun so that may be something to look at in the future to get for her.  Personally though I am very happy I got my '86 and wouldn't trade it for any Marlin.

[86er]

 I've been loading, shooting and hunting with Winchester 1886s  for many years, They are the smoothest, strongest and best looking leverguns around. You might think about the Miroku 1886 EL. It has the same 22" bbl as the Browning SRC and is a tad lighter.
   Contact CDNN Investments in Abilene TX. They were selling these guns for $599.95. That price cannot be beat.Their web address is www.cdnninvestments.com. Landline is 1-800-588-9500.
         Best regards, Mike

[TScottO]

Go with the best you can afford. The marlin will never be an 1886. On down the road you will aways have the classier gun. When ever I buy a gun rather it's expensive or inexpensive I always keep it in new shape the best I can. If you want a knock around gun find one thats already marred and blemished from a pawnshop or second-hand some where for a good deal.

I like the idea of buying a few higher quality guns as compared to several lower quality ones.

Scott

[R. Tillery]

I have an 1895 GG and a Winchester 1886 Extra Lightweight. While the 1886 is a thing of beauty to hold and shoot, my EYES prefer the 1895.....and its Williams' receiver sight.