The Firing Line Forums - View Single Post - 450 marlin and the 45-70...what are the differences?

jmr40 · December 25, 2012, 11:27 AM

Prior to the 357 magnum's introduction companies loaded a round called 38/44. It was simply a 38 special loaded to 357 magnum power. It was intended to only be shot only in 38 special guns built on the 44, or N frame. But some guys bought the ammo and loaded it in standard size 38 framed guns and developed problems. S&W then developed the 357 revolver built on the N frame and made the 357 ammo just enough longer that the new hotter ammo would not chamber in 38's

Marlin's 450 was the answer to the same problem. You can handload, or buy some specialty 45-70 ammo that will equal or exceed the 450. Many ammo companies were reluctant to load 45-70 ammo that hot fearing shooters would load it in guns not suitable for it.

If you are only interested in the hottest loads and are not a handloader the 450 is your answer. If only interested in mild loads the 45-70 is the better choice. If you handload you can load either as light or hot as you want. I prefer the 45-70, but as a handloader could make either work.

December 25, 2012, 11:27 AM	#6
jmr40 Senior Member Join Date: June 15, 2008 Location: Georgia Posts: 10,809	Prior to the 357 magnum's introduction companies loaded a round called 38/44. It was simply a 38 special loaded to 357 magnum power. It was intended to only be shot only in 38 special guns built on the 44, or N frame. But some guys bought the ammo and loaded it in standard size 38 framed guns and developed problems. S&W then developed the 357 revolver built on the N frame and made the 357 ammo just enough longer that the new hotter ammo would not chamber in 38's Marlin's 450 was the answer to the same problem. You can handload, or buy some specialty 45-70 ammo that will equal or exceed the 450. Many ammo companies were reluctant to load 45-70 ammo that hot fearing shooters would load it in guns not suitable for it. If you are only interested in the hottest loads and are not a handloader the 450 is your answer. If only interested in mild loads the 45-70 is the better choice. If you handload you can load either as light or hot as you want. I prefer the 45-70, but as a handloader could make either work.