Marlin Model 1895 .410 Bore Lever-Action Shotgun: A Shotgun with a Lever Gun’s Soul
Marlin Model 1895 .410 Bore Lever-Action Shotgun. The American lever-action rifle has long held its place in hunting lore and firearm tradition—but what happens when you combine that classic cowboy action with the functionality of a shotgun? You get the Marlin Model 1895 .410 Bore Lever-Action Shotgun—a firearm that’s as unique as it is versatile.
Built on the proven and beloved Model 1895 action, Marlin adapted this rifle platform to chamber the .410 bore shotgun shell, creating an elegant fusion of precision, tradition, and practicality. Ideal for small game hunting, pest control, and recreational shooting, the Marlin 1895 .410 brings the nostalgic spirit of the Old West into a new, adaptable role.
Quick Specs: Marlin 1895 .410 Bore at a Glance
Feature | Specification |
---|---|
Chambering | .410 Bore |
Action | Lever-Action |
Barrel Length | 22 inches |
Overall Length | Approx. 40.5 inches |
Weight | Approx. 7.0 lbs |
Stock | American Black Walnut |
Finish | Blued steel |
Magazine Capacity | 4+1 rounds (tubular magazine) |
Choke System | Invector-style removable choke |
Sights | Brass bead front sight |
Safety | Cross-bolt safety |
Receiver | Drilled and tapped for scope mounts |
The Lever-Action Shotgun You Didn’t Know You Needed
The Marlin 1895 .410 isn’t just a novelty—it’s a fully functional, highly capable shotgun tailored to niche but important roles in the field and around the farm. Built with the same attention to detail as Marlin’s centerfire rifles, it provides:
- Smooth lever-action cycling
- Low recoil for fast follow-up shots
- Excellent control and accuracy
- Heritage styling with modern reliability
For those who already appreciate lever-action rifles, this shotgun provides an intuitive and seamless shooting experience. It’s a perfect companion piece—or even a primary tool—for small game, varmints, and light-duty utility.
What Is the .410 Bore Good For?
Though smaller than traditional 12- or 20-gauge shells, the .410 bore offers distinct advantages, especially when paired with a fast-handling lever-action platform like the Marlin 1895.
🐿️ Small Game Hunting
- Rabbits, squirrels, grouse, and upland birds
- .410 provides enough power with minimal over-penetration
- Great for precise shots without damaging too much meat
🦝 Pest and Predator Control
- Effective against raccoons, possums, and snakes
- Quick cycling action is ideal for follow-up shots
🎯 Target and Recreational Shooting
- Low recoil makes it great for casual plinking or clay targets
- Youth- and beginner-friendly platform
🚜 Farm & Ranch Utility Marlin Model 1895 .410 Bore Lever-Action Shotgun
- Perfect for around-the-property use
- Compact enough to keep in a vehicle, ATV, or barn
Classic Design Meets Practical Features
Marlin took the proven 1895 rifle platform and skillfully adapted it for shotgun use, adding key enhancements while retaining the iconic look and feel of a lever-action.
🪵 American Walnut Stock
- Handsome, durable hardwood
- Checkered for a secure grip in wet or gloved conditions
- Classic straight grip lever-gun style
🔩 Blued Steel Finish
- Elegant and traditional appearance
- Durable enough for field conditions
- Matches the visual profile of classic Marlins
🎯 Bead Front Sight
- Simple, intuitive aiming
- Clean profile for quick target acquisition
- Receiver is drilled and tapped for scopes or red dot optics
Choke Versatility and Pattern Control
The inclusion of an Invector-style removable choke system adds unexpected versatility to this .410 shotgun. This allows the user to tailor the shot pattern for specific tasks:
- Cylinder choke for wide pattern and close shots
- Modified or full choke for more range and tighter grouping
It’s a smart feature that increases the effective range and usefulness of the gun across different shooting activities.
Tube Magazine: 4+1 Capacity
The tubular magazine holds four shells, with one additional shell in the chamber. It supports both 2.5-inch and 3-inch .410 shells, giving shooters the option to:
- Use birdshot for upland game
- Load buckshot or slugs for close-range defense or predator control
- Mix loads for flexible performance in unpredictable environments
The side-loading gate makes for intuitive reloading—something lever gun fans will already be comfortable with.
Low Recoil, High Control
One of the biggest advantages of the Marlin 1895 .410 is its incredibly manageable recoil. This makes it ideal for:
- New shooters or youth learning gun safety and marksmanship
- Extended shooting sessions without fatigue
- Precision shots where overcompensation from recoil could matter
Despite the low recoil, .410 shells—especially slugs or buckshot—can still deliver serious performance within 25–50 yards, especially in skilled hands.
Home and Property Defense Potential Marlin Model 1895 .410 Bore Lever-Action Shotgun
While not a traditional tactical firearm, the 1895 .410 offers some compelling characteristics for home defense, especially for rural property owners:
- Fast lever-action cycling for follow-up shots
- Light recoil and noise—especially with .410 buckshot
- Manageable size for tight spaces or truck carry
- Reliable and safe operation
Combined with buckshot or slugs, the .410 can be surprisingly effective in close-quarters scenarios while being easy to control under stress.
Who Should Choose the Marlin 1895 .410 Bore Lever-Action Shotgun?
✅ Hunters
If your primary targets are small game or upland birds, this shotgun provides light handling and precise control in the field. Its compact size and traditional layout are ideal for brush and timber.
✅ Ranchers and Property Owners
This is an excellent “utility shotgun” for the barn, truck, or ATV. It’s perfect for pest control and versatile enough to serve a wide range of needs on the land.
✅ Collectors and Enthusiasts
Lever-action lovers will appreciate the novelty and craftsmanship of a .410 shotgun built on the 1895 platform. It’s unique, collectible, and practical all in one.
✅ New Shooters
The low recoil, ease of use, and classic styling make it a fantastic choice for training and recreational shooting.
Why the Marlin 1895 .410 Stands Out
🔹 Classic styling with modern performance
🔹 Versatile chambering in .410 bore
🔹 Smooth and satisfying lever-action operation
🔹 Perfect for hunting, plinking, or property defense
🔹 A true conversation piece in any collection
This isn’t just a shotgun. It’s a fusion of rifle elegance and shotgun utility—simple, effective, and full of personality.
The Shotgun for Lever-Lovers Marlin Model 1895 .410 Bore Lever-Action Shotgun
The Marlin Model 1895 .410 Lever-Action Shotgun is a standout option for those who appreciate the lever-action platform but want the lighter touch of a shotgun. With low recoil, fast handling, and unmistakable style, it brings something fresh to both the lever-action world and the shotgun category.
Whether you’re hunting rabbits, patrolling your property, or just want a unique and functional piece of American craftsmanship, the 1895 .410 delivers both in form and function.
It’s more than just a firearm—it’s a timeless tool with a modern purpose.