A friend of mine that is quite a “gun guy” says that a shotgun is just not accurate enough when being charged by a bear. I don’t know. He says we should really go with the Marlin 1895g 45/70 and after we get used to the kick and weight, we’ll be able to shoot from the hip. I just don’t know now, just when I had made my mind up for the 20 gage.
Here is what Marlin says about it:
Model 1895G “Guide Gun”
The hunter who’s looking for plenty of power in a compact, stow-anywhere package will find the ideal solution in our Model 1895G. The mighty 45/70 Government cartridge has proven its worth on every species of large North American game, from Maine to Alaska. This rugged lever action rifle weighs only 7 lbs., and features an 18.5″ barrel with Ballard-type cut rifling.
Caliber 45/70 Gov’t.
Capacity 4-shot tubular magazine
Action Lever action; side ejection; solid top receiver; deeply blued metal surfaces; hammer block safety.
Stock American black walnut straight-grip stock; cut checkering; ventilated recoil pad; tough Mar-Shield? finish; swivel studs.
Barrel 18.5″ with deep-cut Ballard-type rifling (6 grooves).
Twist Rate 1:20″ r.h.
Sights Adjustable semi-buckhorn folding rear, ramp front sight with brass bead and Wide-Scan? hood. Solid top receiver tapped for scope mount; offset hammer spur (right or left hand) for scope use.
Overall Length 37″
Weight 7 lbs.
Owner’s Manual Download Owner’s Manual