Marlin Model 1895 Trapper – The Mag Life

Whether you’re a fan of levers or not, there’s no denying the beauty of a nicely designed lever-action rifle. You also have to admit the launch of modern levers based on classic styles is a fantastic blend of the past and future, and Ruger is proving it by re-introducing the Marlin Firearms Model 1895 Trapper. This rifle isn’t just a re-launch of a classic, it’s destined to become a classic in its own right.

Ruger is re-introducing the Marlin Firearms Model 1895 Trapper, a classic lever-action. (Photo credit: Marlin Firearms via Ruger)

Ruger has this to say about it:

The Marlin 1895 Trapper was conceived by hunting and fishing guides in Alaska who needed a big-bore rifle that was short, quick-handling and optimized for hunting or protection from dangerous animals. Chambered in .45-70 Govt., this latest Marlin offering from Ruger features a 16.17”, cold hammer-forged barrel with a 1:20” twist. The threaded barrel (11/16”-24), comes with a match-polished thread protector and will accommodate common muzzle devices.

The stainless steel receiver, lever, magazine tube and barrel feature an attractive non-glare, satin finish – as do all of the small, nickel-plated parts. The bolt is spiral-fluted and nickel-plated for an attractive appearance and very smooth cycling.

Marlin Model 1895 Trapper
The Marlin Model 1895 Trapper is a modernized version of an original lever design. (Photo credit: Marlin Firearms via Ruger)

Features of the Marlin Model 1895 Trapper include:

  • Adjustable Skinner Sights peep sights for rapid target acquisition
  • Improved stock finish and checkering for a better grip with wet hands
  • Refined, streamlined stock and forend for maneuverability and aesthetic purposes
  • Threaded barrel with factory-installed thread protector
  • The location of manufacture on the barrel now reads “Mayodan, NC.”
  • A new “RP” proof mark is located on the left side of the firearm.
  • Ruger-made Marlin rifles begin with the serial prefix of “RM.”
  • The traditional black and white Marlin bullseye located on the rifle stock is now red and white.
  • Marlin Horse and Rider logo laser engraved on the grip.
Marlin horse and rider logo
The Marlin horse and rider logo is now engraved on the stock of the Marlin Model 1895 Trapper. (Photo credit: Marlin Firearms via Ruger)

The Marlin Firearms Model 1895 Trapper is a carbine-length, lever-action gun with a 5 +1 capacity. It’s chambered in 45-70 Government and designed to be both aesthetically pleasing and a reliable performer. Some changes have been made to the gun with this re-introduction by Ruger, but they all appear to be excellent improvements. According to Ruger, the Trapper was designed to tighter tolerances and was put through multiple layers of quality control including accuracy audits and numerous inspections.

Ruger Marlin Model 1895 Trapper
The Marlin Model 1895 Trapper has a threaded barrel with a factory-installed, polished thread protector. (Photo credit: Marlin Firearms via Ruger)

Specifications

Caliber .45-70 Govt
Capacity 5+1
Stock Black Laminate
Material Stainless Steel
Finish Satin Stainless
Front Sight Skinner Sights Blade
Rear Sight Skinner Sights Adjustable
Weight 7.1 lbs.
Overall Length 34.25″
Length of Pull 13.38″
Barrel Length 16.10″
Thread Pattern 11/16″-24
Thread Cap Match-Polished
Barrel Cold Hammer-Forged Stainless Steel
Twist 1:20″ RH
Grooves 6
Other details Marlin Firearms are manufactured by Sturm, Ruger & Co., Inc.
Suggested Retail $1,349.00

Do you own a lever-action rifle? Which model is your favorite? Tell us about it in the comments section.