Thanks for the info Tolly,
I'm a lefty, so a bolt action is going to cost me more than regular unless I can
find a good used one. Like you mentioned, the bank is the primary concern on this.
I'm primarily going to be using it for predator protection when I go fishing.
Not really a hunter (wife is a vegan vegetarian, so no red meat at home.. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/blush.gif" alt="" /> )
I like to fish though, and most of my fishing happens in bear country.
I agree with you on the Marlins.
Marlin has a 1895G Guide lever action in .45/70 with an 18.5" barrel, which
looks like it would be perfect for my needs.
Also, I was looking at the Mossberg shotguns. A shotgun with slugs would offer
me good solid bear protection. Mossberg sells their 12 gauge 500 Persuaders in
a combo unit (28" and 18.5" interchangeable barrels).
Cabellas Canada has some good deals on Marlin's, and also on Mossberg
Like I said, my primary concern would be protection from bears.
Not really keen on being eaten if you know what I mean. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/blush.gif" alt="" />
Cheers
Congrats on the PAL!
If you decide to go the lever action route I would suggest looking at the Marlin 1895 series rifles chambered in 45-70. They can be had in anything from 18.5-22" barrels and a few different configurations. I have a couple of them that I hog hunt with and they are the slickest, fastest handling little rifles you can imagine. That carry great in a saddle scabbard and when chambered in 45-70 you will never be under gunned.
