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3/8/2026 2:05:08 PM EDT
I have a straight stock SS 1895G it’s a JM model and before it comes up I’ll never sell it. I also have more than one 1895. So no worries about resale value.
I am thinking about a 12 or 14 SBR threaded.
I like the classic look so if I SBR nothing else changes aside from barrel length, threaded and a couple in off the stock.    I already have a 16in so I’m very familiar with the recoil.  I also hand load so no issues loading mild to wild.    Some 405-500 subsonic loads and some lower recoil loads would make it enjoyable to shoot.   It also would a great tree stand gun for the deep pines etc

I can’t think of a single reason not to do it. That said it seems like a topic to discuss.   There isn’t much info for similar projects.     I know the TC guys have experience so even the 12in barrel would work just fine with the right powder.      I just need to think out if there are any issue with rifling twist etc.

Fire away
"Never argue with an idiot. They drag you down to their level, then beat you with experience."
3/8/2026 5:25:04 PM EDT
[#1]
fyi Rossi makes Marlin pattern mares legs in .45-70 and Henry is bringing out one in their X format as well, if you don't want to have a gun cut down.
3/8/2026 5:44:29 PM EDT
[#2]
Any straight walled cartridge is a prime candidate for SBR.
3/8/2026 5:51:52 PM EDT
[#3]
Go for it, I've got an 1894 in .44 that I just had GACS chop the barrel to 10.5".  I still need to finish building it.
3/8/2026 8:11:53 PM EDT
[#4]
I think it will be a fun setup
"Never argue with an idiot. They drag you down to their level, then beat you with experience."
3/8/2026 8:59:14 PM EDT
[#5]
It is a waste as that cartridge needs some barrel to burn prolpellant.  Something like .458 Bushmaster, .458 SOCOM or .458 x 2" will perform better if you want to hit something and keep it hit.
3/8/2026 9:40:55 PM EDT
[#6]
Is there a purpose of this gun or just something to fuck around with?

I have a Marlin 1894SBL with a 16” barrel and after hunting with it this year, I find it’s the perfect weight and balance to lug around the woods for a week.

If the $200 tax stamp was still a requirement I’d say there’s no reason to go shorter than 16” but since that’s gone, I’d base my decision on ballistics. Seems like the 45/70 would be better off not going so short.
3/8/2026 10:49:58 PM EDT
[#7]
I have a 44 mag SBRed Rossi ranch hand... by far my most entertaining gun, but I load some lighter loads for it to plink with.  I also load 45-70 at 1300 FPS to shoot cowboy long range competition and I think that would be even more fun in SBR than a 44.

If you don't reload, 45-70 is too expensive and too punishing to plink
IDF, A.A. 215, "Scorpion" Company. 1993-1996
3/8/2026 11:07:58 PM EDT
[Last Edit: Buckeye33][Edited] [#8]
I like the idea, but practically in a barrel that short wouldn’t you be better off using a 45 Colt?
I had a Guide gun cut to 16 inches. It was fun. I just question that much case to fill for a reduced load
3/14/2026 11:46:35 PM EDT
[#9]
Pretty sure we have a member with that exact setup. Between it being a big case with slower powder and the small capacity it's not something I'd want. I do however want SBR 357's and 44's....and a 500 while I'm dreaming.
BikerNut:
Normal people like motorcycles. Real people like motorcycles.

People who don't like motorcycles are just... weird.

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