Marlin 1894 .45 Colt Lever-Action Rifle: Classic Cowboy Caliber with Modern Performance

Marlin 1894 45 Colt Lever-Action Rifle. Few rifles capture the spirit of the American West quite like a lever-action chambered in a classic revolver round. The Marlin 1894 .45 Colt Lever-Action Rifle blends vintage cowboy charm with modern reliability, delivering a firearm that’s fast-handling, fun to shoot, and capable of serious performance in the field.

For shooters who want versatility, history, and a strong sense of tradition in their rifle, the 1894 chambered in .45 Colt (also known as .45 Long Colt) is an excellent choice. From plinking at the range to taking down game or defending your property, this lever gun does it all—while looking fantastic doing it.

This comprehensive guide explores everything you need to know about the Marlin Model 1894 in .45 Colt: its design, features, ballistic performance, use cases, and what makes it such a valued choice among lever-action enthusiasts.

A Legacy Born in the West: The Marlin 1894

The Marlin 1894 was introduced in—you guessed it—1894. Designed during a time when lever-action rifles were the go-to long guns for ranchers, lawmen, and frontiersmen, it quickly carved out a reputation for durability and innovation. Unlike many of its competitors, Marlin’s design featured a solid-top receiver and side ejection, which helped future-proof the platform for scope use and better weather protection.

While the original 1894 was chambered for black powder cartridges, today’s versions are built to handle modern smokeless powder loads, and are available in some of the most iconic revolver cartridges ever created—including the .45 Colt.

What Makes the Marlin 1894 .45 Colt Special?

There’s something inherently nostalgic about shooting a rifle that’s chambered for the same ammunition as your revolver. That’s part of what makes the Marlin 1894 .45 Colt so compelling. But nostalgia aside, this rifle offers practical performance for real-world applications—especially when paired with today’s high-performance ammunition.

Key Highlights: Marlin 1894 45 Colt Lever-Action Rifle

• Chambered in .45 Colt, compatible with both standard and high-pressure (within safe limits) loads
• Classic lever-action design with smooth cycling and fast follow-up shots
• Short, maneuverable barrel ideal for dense brush or tight spaces
• Side-ejecting solid-top receiver, perfect for mounting optics
• Hardwood or walnut stock with traditional styling
• Reliable tubular magazine with generous capacity
• Low recoil, high enjoyment, and serious knockdown power in a compact package

Understanding the .45 Colt Cartridge

Originally introduced in 1873 for the Colt Single Action Army revolver, the .45 Colt (sometimes called .45 Long Colt to distinguish it from .45 ACP) has a rich history stretching back to the days of the Wild West.

Why It Works Well in Rifles:

• Flexible Power Range: In revolvers, .45 Colt is typically mild, but from a rifle-length barrel, it offers significant velocity and energy increases.
• Low Recoil: Even full-powered loads are comfortable to shoot.
• Versatile Loads: Choose between soft cowboy action loads for target shooting or modern high-performance loads for hunting.
• Straight-Walled Cartridge: Easy to reload and often legal in states that allow straight-wall-only cartridges for deer hunting.

In the Marlin 1894, the .45 Colt becomes a highly capable cartridge for a wide variety of uses.

Design and Build Quality Marlin 1894 45 Colt Lever-Action Rifle

The Marlin 1894 .45 Colt offers a beautiful balance of tradition and modern engineering. Ruger’s recent stewardship of the Marlin brand has only improved the rifle’s overall build quality, with tight tolerances, excellent finish, and smoother actions than many previous generations.

Typical Features Include:

• Barrel Length: Most 1894s in .45 Colt come with a 20-inch barrel, which enhances ballistic performance without making the rifle bulky.
• Stock: High-quality walnut or hardwood, depending on the model. The straight-grip design offers a natural and fast handling experience.
• Finish: Durable blued or stainless steel, with deep color and polished surfaces that resist wear and weather.
• Lever Loop: Traditional narrow loop (with some models offering large-loop options).
• Receiver: Solid-top, side-ejecting, and drilled and tapped for optics mounting.

This rifle looks just as good on display as it performs in the field.

Ballistic Performance from a Rifle Barrel

The Marlin 1894 dramatically increases the performance of the .45 Colt compared to a revolver. From a rifle-length barrel, you can expect:

• Increased Velocity: In some cases, gains of 300–500 fps over handgun velocities.
• Enhanced Accuracy: The longer sight radius and improved stability help with precise shot placement.
• Greater Energy: More downrange punch, making the cartridge suitable for medium-game hunting.

With proper bullet selection, you can use the .45 Colt for a variety of hunting and defensive tasks.

Ideal Use Cases for the Marlin 1894 .45 Colt

1. Hunting

The Marlin 1894 in .45 Colt is highly capable of taking medium-sized game at appropriate distances (typically within 100 yards).

Common Targets:

• Whitetail Deer
• Wild Hogs
• Black Bear (with heavy loads)
• Coyotes and Varmints (with light loads)

Choose expanding hollow points or hard-cast lead bullets for optimal results based on your target.

2. Home and Property Defense

This lever gun is also a viable option for home defense, especially for those in rural areas. Its combination of manageable recoil, powerful cartridge, and fast cycling make it a great alternative to shotguns or semi-autos.

Advantages for defense:

• Quick follow-up shots
• Good capacity (typically 10 rounds in the tube)
• Reliable mechanics
• Easier handling than pump-action shotguns

3. Recreational Shooting

For sheer fun, few rifles beat the 1894 in .45 Colt. Soft-shooting cowboy loads are enjoyable for plinking and practicing lever-action operation. Whether you’re on a range or in the backyard, this rifle is a hit with shooters of all ages.

4. Cowboy Action Shooting

The .45 Colt is one of the most popular calibers in Cowboy Action Shooting, and the 1894 is frequently used in competitions. Its smooth lever throw and classic lines make it a top-tier choice for both beginners and seasoned competitors.

How It Compares to Other Lever Guns

vs. Marlin 1894 in .44 Magnum

• Recoil: .45 Colt generally has less recoil, especially in light loads.
• Power: .44 Magnum offers more velocity and energy for large game.
• Reloading Ease: Both are straight-walled, but .45 Colt is slightly easier and more cost-effective to reload.

vs. Henry Big Boy .45 Colt

• Loading System: Marlin uses a side-loading gate, which many shooters prefer over Henry’s front-loading system.
• Scope Compatibility: Marlin’s side-ejection makes optics mounting easier.
• Balance: The Marlin is often lighter and better balanced for field use.

Cleaning and Maintenance Marlin 1894 45 Colt Lever-Action Rifle

Maintaining the Marlin 1894 is straightforward, even for newer shooters. The rifle breaks down easily for cleaning, and its robust design handles long-term use well.

Basic Maintenance Steps:

1. Always unload and double-check before cleaning.
2. Remove the lever screw and pull out the bolt for access to the chamber and bore.
3. Clean the bore with a rod or bore snake and solvent.
4. Wipe down all internal components with a soft cloth and apply light gun oil.
5. Reassemble and cycle the lever to ensure smooth operation.

Proper maintenance ensures a lifetime of reliable performance.

Customization and Accessories

While the Marlin 1894 is excellent out of the box, many owners choose to personalize their rifles.

Popular Custom Upgrades:

• Lever Loop: Swap to a large-loop lever for easier cycling with gloves.
• Sights: Add ghost ring, peep, or fiber-optic sights for faster aiming.
• Optics: Mount a scout scope or red dot for faster target acquisition.
• Stock Replacements: Go synthetic for weather resistance or laminate for added strength.
• Trigger Kits: Upgrade for a cleaner break and lighter pull.

Variants and Options Marlin 1894 45 Colt Lever-Action Rifle

Depending on current production, you may find several versions of the 1894 .45 Colt:

• Standard Blued/Walnut Model
• Stainless Model (for harsh weather use)
• Large-Loop Lever Model
• Trapper Model: Shortened barrel and compact size for easier handling
• SBL Model: Stainless, laminate stock, and enhanced sights

Each offers different features but retains the core reliability and heritage of the original 1894.

Who Should Buy the Marlin 1894 .45 Colt?

This rifle is ideal for:

• Hunters needing a lightweight brush gun
• Recreational shooters who enjoy lever-action fun
• Cowboy Action competitors
• Collectors looking for a traditional platform
• Property owners seeking a reliable, easy-to-use rifle for protection
• Reloaders interested in cost-effective shooting

It’s a fantastic blend of power, precision, and personality.

A Lever Gun You’ll Love to Shoot

The Marlin 1894 .45 Colt Lever-Action Rifle offers a near-perfect mix of classic styling, modern performance, and real-world versatility. Whether you’re a hunter, a weekend shooter, or just someone who appreciates the craftsmanship of traditional American firearms, this rifle delivers where it counts.

From soft cowboy loads to powerful hunting rounds, the 1894 in .45 Colt handles them all with confidence. It’s more than just a tool—it’s an experience, a connection to the past, and a joy to own and shoot.

If you’re looking to add a rifle to your collection that’s as beautiful as it is capable, the Marlin 1894 in .45 Colt is a choice you won’t regret.