Marlin 1895 SBL Review

Lever-action rifles aren’t really given the credit they’re due for being versatile, functional platforms. Often seen as belonging to the realm of cowboy shooters and the back of grandparents’ closets, levers tend to get set aside for newer, cooler-seeming guns. In reality, the lever-action has a lot to offer, and one of the front-runners comes from Marlin. The Marlin 1895 SBL is a classic for a reason and one that’s enjoyed recent enhancements. Don’t have a lever? Here’s why you should get this one.

Marlin 1895 SBL Background

Marlin has been in business since 1870 and the first 1895 lever-action rifle was advertised in their catalog in 1896. And while the finalized version of the 1895 was in production until around 1917, the modern variant we all readily recognize didn’t hit the market until the 1970s. Even that version varies from the model that’s being manufactured today. The most recent Marlin 1895 SBL went into production after Marlin Firearms was purchased by Ruger, and as a result the gun has a few minor changes in comparison to Marlins made when the brand was owned by Remington. 

The modern Marlin 1895 SBL has only been back in production a few years, but it’s already proven to be a fantastically made gun. It’s made with impeccable attention to detail and strict quality control—basically, it might be the best Marlin that’s been made in decades. This model was closely followed by the re-release of the 1895 Trapper which is, for all intents and purposes, the same gun only with a shorter barrel. That makes sense because the 19.1-inch barrel of the SBL might be too long for some shooters while the shorter 16-inch barrel of the Trapper can be preferable.

Ways the newest Marlin 1895 SBL clearly differs from prior production runs:

• Manufacturer’s mark on the barrel now reads “Mayodan, NC.”
• There’s an “RP” proof mark on the lefthand side of the gun.
• All Ruger-made Marlins have serials with a prefix starting “RM.”
• The classic Marlin horse and rider logo is lasered into the stock on the bottom of the grip.
• The bull’s eye on the stock that was once black and white is now red and white.

Marlin 1895 SBL Features

1 Spiral-fluted bolt

Polished, spiral-fluted bolt for a smoother action and aesthetic appeal.

2 Picatinny Rail

Picatinny rail for quick, simple addition of whatever iron sights, red dots, or other top-mounted accessories you’d like.

3 Front Optic

Ships with tritium fiber front optic.

4 Threaded Barrel

Threaded barrel, making the gun suppressor and muzzle-device ready.

5 Smooth

Slim forend for increased comfort during use as well as overall lighter weight and easier maneuvering.

6 Loop Lever

Large loop lever for easy operation even while wearing gloves.

7 Improved Stock

Improved stock finish and checkered grip panels for a better grasp during live fire.

Marlin Model 1895 Trapper:

Marlin 1895 SBL – Our Take

With its greater overall length, the Marlin 1895 SBL is likely best-suited to defensive use and hunting. Yes, you can run a lever-action fast and accurately for self-defense purposes. This gun has run all manner of courses at Gunsite Academy in Paulden, Arizona, and even more drills at the range. It’s also performed well on hunts for feral hogs and whitetail deer in North Texas. While these levers were first made with the Wild West of the 19^th century in mind, today’s levers are definitely capable of handling a broader variety of tasks. The 1895 is a classic and Ruger has done a wonderful job of further enhancing this rifle.

SHOOTABILITY

Thanks to the soft-yet-sturdy rubber buttpad on this rifle as well as its general design, the felt recoil of the 45-70 Government isn’t extreme. I’ve run guns in this caliber that produce far more felt recoil, but this one is about as soft-shooting as this big bore can be. It’s built for superior balance and natural pointability, making it a simple process to not only get on target accurately but re-acquire targets quickly. Muzzle rise isn’t extreme, either. Overall, the 1895 SBL is a joy to shoot.

ACCURACY

Another great thing about these Ruger-made Marlins is how accurate they are. The Marlin 1895 SBL is among the most accurate levers I’ve shot, and it continues to impress with extended use. You’re most likely to be deer hunting with this gun under 125 yards, and this gun can handle that with ideal precision. It also delivers great groups at 100 yards on paper, proving its accuracy is repeatable as opposed to being a one-hit wonder.

ERGONOMICS

The thinned-down forend of the Marlin 1895 SBL improves its ergonomics to create a rifle that’s easier for a variety of shooters who run well. Not only does the design of the rifle create a smoother, sleeker platform but it makes it quicker to maneuver and better for longer live-fire sessions. And thanks to the swivel studs that come standard, you can add a sling to make carrying it around easier.

VALUE

This Marlin does come with a somewhat higher price point, but it’s worth every penny. You want your lever-action rifle to cycle reliably, deliver consistent accuracy, and feel good against your shoulder—and this one does it all, and then some. It’s better to have one high-quality rifle than multiple lesser-quality guns and the Marlin 1895 SBL gives you the performance and longevity you’re looking for.

Marlin 1895 SBL: Pros and Cons

Gun Deals

Searching the internet to find your favorite firearm can be a big task. However, we put together a list to make things simple. Check out the links below to figure out where you can find your own Marlin 1895 SBL.

Preferred Ammo for Your Firearm

A couple of options include:

Upgrades and Accessories

Below are a few suggestions for things you might find helpful (or enjoyable) when shooting your Marlin 1895 SBL.

1. Lucid Optics E7 Micro Closed Reflex Sight BLUE		Holographic Red Dot Sights	Check It Out
2. The second half of “Eyes and Ears”		Ear protection is also critical. Protect your hearing! Many styles (some stackable) are available	Compare best earpro
3. Appropriate cleaning kit		For cleaning, care, and maintenance Not all kits are created equal	Compare top kits

Keep something in mind when choosing your accessories, upgrades, and furniture: apart from the basic necessities (e.g. a sling, a light, and possibly an optic), you should always budget time, resources, and money for training. All the “Gucci kit” in the world won’t help if you cannot run the gun effectively.

How to Care for Your Firearm

Whether you’re new to the Rifle platform or you just want to brush up on your fundamentals, check out this video breaking down the Marlin 1895 SBL.

Important Links and Manuals

Need more info on this firearm? Don’t worry. There’s plenty out there. We recommend you get started with the following resources:

• How to Disassemble your Marlin Model 1895 SBL
• Marlin Model 1895 Instruction Manual