Marlin 1895 ABL .45-70 Govt Lever-Action Rifle: Big-Bore Power with Rugged Modern Style

Marlin 1895 ABL 45-70 Govt Lever-Action Rifle with Gray/Black Laminate Stock and Large. When tradition meets modern utility, you get the Marlin 1895 ABL .45-70 Government Lever-Action Rifle—a firearm purpose-built for backcountry hunters, wilderness guides, and shooting enthusiasts who demand raw power, rugged durability, and timeless performance. With its gray/black laminated hardwood stock, stainless steel construction, and oversized large-loop lever, the 1895 ABL (All-Weather Big Loop) stands out as one of the most practical and visually striking lever-action rifles on the market today.

Whether you’re hunting big game, defending against predators in bear country, or simply enjoying the craftsmanship of a high-caliber American rifle, the 1895 ABL offers the reliability, strength, and power you need—all while staying true to the Marlin legacy.

A Modern Take on a Classic Lever Gun

The Marlin 1895 has been a staple in the world of lever-actions since the late 1800s. Originally designed for the .45-70 Government cartridge, the rifle has evolved over time to include various models suited for specific environments and uses. The ABL (All-Weather Big Loop) variant takes the core of the 1895 design and enhances it for harsh field conditions and gloved-hand operation, making it a favorite among hunters and outdoor professionals who operate in unpredictable climates.

Key Specifications Marlin 1895 ABL 45-70 Govt Lever-Action Rifle with Gray/Black Laminate Stock and Large

Design and Construction: Built for the Real World

Gray/Black Laminated Stock

The laminated stock on the 1895 ABL is more than just visually unique—it’s functional. Unlike traditional wood stocks, laminate wood is resistant to swelling, shrinking, or warping due to temperature or moisture changes. That makes this rifle ideal for:

• Mountain hunting
• Rain-soaked backwoods trips
• Snow and extreme cold

The gray/black color scheme also adds a modern, tactical appearance without compromising its classic silhouette.

Matte Stainless Steel Finish

The ABL’s matte stainless steel barrel and receiver resist rust, corrosion, and abrasion. This rifle is made to get wet, dirty, and scratched—and still function flawlessly. Whether exposed to ocean air, alpine fog, or swamp humidity, the stainless steel keeps the rifle in top condition with minimal maintenance.

Large Loop Lever

Perhaps the most distinctive feature of the 1895 ABL is its oversized lever loop, which accommodates gloved hands—a must-have for cold-weather hunts or tactical gloves. The smooth cycling action and extended loop allow for fast operation even under pressure.

Chambered in .45-70 Government: Legendary Power

The .45-70 Gov’t cartridge has been delivering stopping power for over 150 years. Originally developed for military use in 1873, it has since become one of the most trusted cartridges for big-game hunting in North America.

Ballistics Overview:

• Bullet Weights: 300 to 500 grains
• Muzzle Velocity: 1,600 to 2,000+ fps
• Muzzle Energy: 2,500 to 3,800+ ft-lbs

Whether you’re facing down a charging bear or harvesting a moose in dense brush, the .45-70 round ensures deep penetration and terminal performance that few cartridges can match.

Field Performance: Reliable and Powerful

Brush Gun Excellence

With its 18.5-inch barrel, compact profile, and lever-action speed, the 1895 ABL is tailor-made for thick brush and tight quarters. It points quickly, cycles smoothly, and shoulders naturally, making it an excellent companion for hunters navigating dense forests or steep hillsides.

Recoil Management

Despite its caliber, the 1895 ABL is manageable in terms of recoil. The well-designed recoil pad, laminate stock, and slightly heavier frame help absorb much of the cartridge’s punch. Even with hot loads, the recoil is firm but not punishing.

Fast Follow-Up Shots

The lever-action mechanism is fast and reliable. When paired with the large loop lever, shooters can cycle rounds quickly and confidently, whether firing from a bench rest, standing, or a prone hunting position.

Sights and Optics Options

Iron Sights

The Marlin 1895 ABL comes standard with a semi-buckhorn adjustable rear sight and a ramp front sight with brass bead, offering quick target acquisition in traditional form. These are perfect for short-range shots where speed and visibility are key.

Optics Ready

For those who prefer magnification or red-dot sights, the receiver is drilled and tapped, allowing for the installation of:

• Low-power variable optics (1-4x or 1-6x)
• Scout-style scopes (with forward rail mounts)
• Red dots for rapid target acquisition

The stainless steel receiver makes it easy to install and maintain optics without interfering with the rifle’s ejection path.

Durability in Harsh Conditions

Few rifles can take abuse and still operate with the dependability of the Marlin 1895 ABL. It’s been engineered to work in:

• Wet and freezing environments
• Extreme heat and humidity
• Dusty, debris-filled backcountry

Its side-eject design and robust construction prevent failures where top-eject models might struggle. This is a gun you can count on when things get wild.

Applications: Who Is It For?

✅ Big Game Hunters

Perfect for taking down deer, elk, moose, or black bear with authority. The .45-70 cartridge ensures a clean, ethical kill.

✅ Wilderness Guides and Outfitters

If you need a backup gun for predator defense or client protection, the 1895 ABL’s compact size and power are hard to beat.

✅ Backcountry Adventurers

For campers, hikers, and outdoor workers in bear country, the 1895 ABL provides serious peace of mind.

✅ Lever-Action Enthusiasts

Fans of traditional lever guns will love the updated look and feel of the ABL while appreciating the platform’s historic roots.

Maintenance and Longevity Marlin 1895 ABL 45-70 Govt Lever-Action Rifle with Gray/Black Laminate Stock and Large

Maintaining the Marlin 1895 ABL is straightforward, and its stainless components mean less cleaning and oiling than traditional blued guns. Still, regular care ensures top performance:

• Clean the bore and chamber after heavy use or exposure to moisture.
• Lightly oil the lever and internals to keep the action slick.
• Inspect laminate stock for surface wear or scratches, but it generally holds up well over time.

With proper care, this rifle will easily last a lifetime—and then some.

Why the 1895 ABL Belongs in Your Safe (and in the Field)

The Marlin 1895 ABL .45-70 Govt Lever-Action Rifle with its gray/black laminate stock and large loop lever is one of the most versatile and dependable big-bore rifles on the market. It takes the timeless design of a lever-action rifle and updates it with practical features that enhance real-world usability, durability, and power.

Whether you’re trekking through remote wilderness, hunting heavy game, or simply looking for a firearm that blends heritage with hard-working design, the 1895 ABL delivers.

🔹 Big-bore performance

🔹 Backcountry durability

🔹 American lever-action soul