Marlin 94 Question and Marlin/Ruger Loads

[SaukValley Sam]

I am new to this sport but have been around guns since I was young.  Just purchased a pre-owned Marlin 1894 Cowboy Limited in 45LC to go with two Ruger Vaqueros , 5 1/2 barrels, in 45LC.  I have been researching these guns and ammo on this sites and other web areas and have a couple of questions.  I see a lot of shooters use 200 or 250 grain bullets successfully but can not find much info on 160 or 180 grain bullets.  For cowboy shooting would either of these weights work for rifle and pistols?  Also, have found a couple of sites that say Marlins may not feed brass shells as well as nickel plated.  Any feed back on this?

Any feed back on quality or experience with purchasing bulk cowboy loads  on internet companies such as Ammodirect?

Finally, have not been able to research history on specifically the Marlin Cowboy Limited (Model 1894CB - Cal 45 ColltSN 02006565).  It has stock and forearm checkering, 24" octaginal barrel, and peep site mounted on tang.  I would like to find some info like manufacture date and number manufactured.  Is the pep site original or added later?

I know this is a lot of questions but I am in no hurry for answers.  I do appreciate ya'll sharing your exoerience with me here in San Antonio.  Thank you.

[Camille Eonich]

Used to use a .165 gr bullet in the .45 Marlin and the Rugers.  Also used it in all of the '73s.  No problems with it at all with the exception that it's a very dirty load compared to something a little stouter.

I don't know where you could find them already loaded.   We roll our own.  Somebody will probably come around shortly and tell you where to go though.   

[Big John Denny]

Pard, for the rifle I would recommend the 250gr load. I believe it better helps the shell case mouth to expand and seal up the chamber, thus causing less blowback from the powder. This is also why I like to use a heavier load for my rifle shells than my revolver loads.

I've never had trouble with a Marlin feeding brass shells.

[litl rooster]

Pard, for the rifle I would recommend the 250gr load. I believe it better helps the shell case mouth to expand and seal up the chamber, thus causing less blowback from the powder. This is also why I like to use a heavier load for my rifle shells than my revolver loads.

I've never had trouble with a Marlin feeding brass shells.

Would have to agree with BJD about the blow back. The Marshall posted a new AMMO vendor today....His prices are good for .45L.C. loads.....He even has the Holy Black......Good Shootin to ya.


BTW I believe if you have a 1894 CB with checkering it's a newer model gun.

[Silver Creek Slim]

I am new to this sport but have been around guns since I was young.  Just purchased a pre-owned Marlin 1894 Cowboy Limited in 45LC to go with two Ruger Vaqueros , 5 1/2 barrels, in 45LC.  I have been researching these guns and ammo on this sites and other web areas and have a couple of questions.  I see a lot of shooters use 200 or 250 grain bullets successfully but can not find much info on 160 or 180 grain bullets.  For cowboy shooting would either of these weights work for rifle and pistols?  Also, have found a couple of sites that say Marlins may not feed brass shells as well as nickel plated.  Any feed back on this?

I use 255 gr boolits in my Rugers and Marlin, but I use black powder. I load 200 gr boolits in my wife's loads for less recoil with 5 grs of Hodgdon's Clays. We have never had a problem feeding brass shells through the Marlin's action. I think the main problem is not getting the cartridge overall length correct which causes feeding problems.

Any feed back on quality or experience with purchasing bulk cowboy loads  on internet companies such as Ammodirect?

Sorry, I've never bought bulk CAS ammo. I load my own.

Finally, have not been able to research history on specifically the Marlin Cowboy Limited (Model 1894CB - Cal 45 ColltSN 02006565).  It has stock and forearm checkering, 24" octaginal barrel, and peep site mounted on tang.  I would like to find some info like manufacture date and number manufactured.  Is the pep site original or added later?

According to that SN, it was made in 2002. The tang peep site is not original equipment. It was added later.

I know this is a lot of questions but I am in no hurry for answers.  I do appreciate ya'll sharing your exoerience with me here in San Antonio.  Thank you.

Hope that helps.

Slim