Quick Look
The Marlin 1895 Trapper is a lever-action rifle rooted in Marlin's long history dating back to the late 19th century. Designed for compactness and power, this rifle features a short barrel ideal for close-range hunting and maneuverability. It maintains strong popularity among hunters who desire a reliable, easy-to-handle lever-action in .45-70 Government caliber.
Why It's a Top Choice
- Compact design for brush hunting and tight quarters
- Chambered in powerful .45-70 Government cartridge
- Traditional lever-action with smooth cycling
- Durable steel construction with classic styling
- Excellent accuracy for medium to large game
Key Variants
Marlin 1895 Trapper Carbon Fiber
Lightweight variant with carbon fiber stock for enhanced portability and reduced weight.
Marlin 1895 Trapper Stainless
Stainless steel version offering corrosion resistance suitable for harsh environments.
Marlin 1895 Trapper Original
Classic wood stock model balancing tradition and performance for general use.
Competitor Comparison Table
| Feature | Marlin 1895 Trapper | Henry Big Boy | Winchester Model 1894 |
|---|---|---|---|
| MSRP | $870 | $750 | $900 |
| Capacity / Size | 5+1 rounds, 18" barrel | 10+1 rounds, 16" barrel | 6+1 rounds, 20" barrel |
| Weight | 7.75 lbs | 7 lbs | 7.25 lbs |
| Optics-Ready | No (rail optional) | Yes | No |
| Trigger Type | Lever-action | Lever-action | Lever-action |
| Notable Pro | Compact, powerful .45-70 caliber | High capacity, lighter barrel | Classic design, proven reliability |
| Notable Con | No factory optics rail | Heavier overall weight | Limited caliber options |
Best Use Cases
- Big game hunting in dense terrain
- Close-quarters brush or forest hunting
- Lever-action rifle collections
- Range practice with traditional lever-action
- Backcountry survival and camping use
FAQs
Can I mount a scope on the Marlin 1895 Trapper?
Yes, aftermarket scope mounts and rails are available, although it does not come optics-ready from the factory.
What caliber does the Marlin 1895 Trapper use?
It is chambered in .45-70 Government, a powerful cartridge well-suited for large game hunting.
How does the weight of the Trapper compare to similar rifles?
At about 7.75 pounds, it is slightly heavier than some competitors due to its robust steel build and barrel length.







