Back from East Wa Hunt...Looking at mountain guns now

[Mongo Hunter]

Hey guy so I just got back from Dayton, unfortunately no Muleys but it was still fun. anyways I think I came up with a new excuse to buy a gun (not that I normally need one). Hiking up and down those freaking mountains and trails was killer and I'm trying to think of a way to shed a bit of weight for just mountain style hunting. I normally use a Remington 700 in 7mm for my primary hunting rifle (about 46.5" in length and 7.6lbs naked), however this time I was using my late grandfathers Ruger #1 in 25-06 (42" in length and 8lbs naked). while both are not what I would call boat anchors after you get a scope, sling, shell holder ect. they start to get heavy especially after some of those hills.   

So it got me looking at a short lightweight rifle for just these sort of occasions. the two I'm looking at are the Marlin 45-70 (about 37" and 7lbs) and the Thompson Katahdin (34.5" 7lbs). I'm trying to figure out the advantages and disadvantages of both.

 I have always wanted a Marlin 45-70 in stainless and I like the extra rounds it holds, however the new ones I have heard are a bit spotty on QC and its a little longer than the Thompson.

The Thompson is the shortest has great QC/REP and it can break down very small to even be a backup hunting rifle, but is only a single shot.

I understand the compromise that these guns are, they will never reach out as far or as accurate as my 7mm BUT they are significantly shorter and lighter than what I have.

So my question, what would you pick/use/have? Is there something I missed that maybe would be a better option?

No bolt guns, I have 3 and trying to convince the wife of a 4th wont happen, but if I can sell the one (Remington 788 in 243) I could easily convince her of one of these other two or something similar.

Thanks guys!

[Smokepole54]

Hello easy choice between the two JM stamped 1895 45-70 done and doneu

[jackelope]

Id get a TC but I wouldn't get the Katahdin assuming it's the .500 S&W and you're looking for a deer rifle to use in country like what's outside of Dayton. I'm a TC guy. The single shot thing is a non-issue. Really makes you take your time and make good shots. You could buy the rifle with the .500 barrel then get another lighter barrel more along the lines of a Deer rifle. I use a .280 Rem and a .300 win mag. Also have .30-06 and .22-250 barrels for mine.

[jackelope]

PS I think my rifle with the .280 barrel weight like 7.5 pounds scoped.

 

If I can find my scale I'll check today and report back.

[Bob33]

I don't think I'd consider a 45-70 as a "mountain caliber".

[gundogr]

Okay, I will give my thoughts on the Guide Gun but first I would be remiss not to point you in the direction of the Tikka Super-Lite. My son and I bought twins sort of (mine in 30-06, his 308). They weigh about 6.5lbs before scope, stainless fluted barrel, camo synthetic stock. THE way to go for mountain hunting unless you want to go Kimber Mountain Ascent at 5lbs and change.

Now to the Marlins... I have owned four. The newer ones nicknamed 'Remlins' and three original 'JM' (John Marlin) stamped on the left of the barrel near the receiver.  I have heard the and seen the horror stories of the early RemLins and in some ways lived one. My declarative statement, if you get one, get an original JM. More on why...

Okay, I have owned three guide guns and a 336 in 35 Remington... first was one of the first Remington/Marlins SBL, good rifle, horrible trigger but with upgraded trigger, stainless barrel, full XS rail, carries seven rounds with full cartridge tube. But that adds weight to the barrel if you run her full. Though I got rid of it, I liked it a lot.

Next came a Marlin 336, this is an older JM model, great trigger (maybe a tad light), rifle handled great. I need another one and it was a mistake to let this one go. You can get them in 30-30, 35 Remington, 308 Marlin Express (like a 308 magnum really)... the 35 is nostalgic and a good caliber for brush from deer to elk within reasonable ranges. But ammo can be hard to come by unless you reload (which I do).

Stainless JM 1895 45/70 was my fourth (I will get to the second, last and current GG). This is a beautiful rifle, nice trigger but I traded it to get my second (and current) one back. 45/70, blued, ported and great trigger. I have been some customizations to it to make it exactly what I like... but if you get one, the JM triggers, fit and finish are the best. I put WWG Happy trigger and the orange followers in mine (so it will handle the Hornady FTX 325gr bullets), put on the scope or sights you want (I have a Leupold VX3 1-5x20) and you are set. Short, accurate, and will put whatever you can hit down for good.

The best news is you look around and can usually find these for $5-600.

Cheers.

[Encore 280]

I also have the TC Encore in 24'' SS 280 and it's a tack driver. Also have the blued 24'' 06 and 26'' SS 7mm and it's a tack driver too. Have 2 blued 15'' 308 barrels, 2 blued and 1 SS frame, don't ask me why I have so many. I can't figure out why they can make a 300 mag barrel but not a 7mmRUM barrel.

[jackelope]

I also have the TC Encore in 24'' SS 280 and it's a tack driver. Also have the blued 24'' 06 and 26'' SS 7mm and it's a tack driver too. Have 2 blued 15'' 308 barrels, 2 blued and 1 SS frame, don't ask me why I have so many. I can't figure out why they can make a 300 mag barrel but not a 7mmRUM barrel.

They're not strong enough for RUM's because the wall thickness ends up so thin in order to accommodate the RUM case. 

[jackelope]

.45-70. 0 at 100 yards, 10" low at 200.



.500 S&W 0 at 100. 20" low at 200.




If you like to hunt up close and personal go for it. Otherwise I wouldn't bother with either of your 2 choices for a mountain rifle.

[Curly]

You might want to message YorkeTransport on here and get his opinion on a Savage Striker. 

[cooltimber]

.44 Blackhawk with a scope   

[Mongo Hunter]

.45-70. 0 at 100 yards, 10" low at 200.



.500 S&W 0 at 100. 20" low at 200.




If you like to hunt up close and personal go for it. Otherwise I wouldn't bother with either of your 2 choices for a mountain rifle.

That's using a 430gr bullet. the Hornady Leverlution is a bit better trajectory wise than that, but anyways. the only "new" cartridges I'm willing to add are 45-70 or a 308. so is there another light, small gun in either 30-06, 25-05, 7mm, 308 or 45-70?

[theleo]

Of the two the OP said I'd go with the 45-70, the hole they make is just cool, and the lack of blood shot meat even cooler. I'm not sure what the personal limitation is on range, but if we are talking light easy carrying in the hand rifles I'd be on the look out for a 30-30 or 32 Special in a carbine style model 94. Now if we are talking the modern meaning of "Mountain Rifles" something along the lines of the Tikka's or Kimber Ascent fit the bill more. I'd shy away from magnums in light rifles though, they have a tendancy to bite. A Remington model 7 in a 7mm-08 or 6.5 Creedmore is really pleasant to pack and shoot.

[CAMPMEAT]

I've got a Remington 700 Mountain Lite 25-06 w/Vortex Diamondback 3.5x10x50 you can have for $1200 firm. I think it weighs right around 6.5 pounds w/o ammo.

[2MANY]

25-06 in an ultra light is a sweet set up.

[jackelope]

.45-70. 0 at 100 yards, 10" low at 200.



.500 S&W 0 at 100. 20" low at 200.




If you like to hunt up close and personal go for it. Otherwise I wouldn't bother with either of your 2 choices for a mountain rifle.

That's using a 430gr bullet. the Hornady Leverlution is a bit better trajectory wise than that, but anyways. the only "new" cartridges I'm willing to add are 45-70 or a 308. so is there another light, small gun in either 30-06, 25-05, 7mm, 308 or 45-70?

Buy a TC Encore or Pro Hunter with a .308 barrel. When someone says mountain rifle, I think lightweight, somewhat compact etc.
I just weighed my Encore. It's a 24" SS .280 Rem, 4-16x42 Vortex scope, claw sling and a Harris bipod. It weighs 9.2 pounds with all that stuff. I'd drop the bipod and lose a pound or so if I was hunting in the mountains. If I wanted to save more weight id put a smaller scope on it. I could be under 8 pounds ready to roll. You could do the same thing with pretty much whatever caliber you want.

[Bob33]

By ruling out bolt actions, you eliminated the vast majority of the best mountain rifles.

[JimmyHoffa]

By ruling out bolt actions, you eliminated the vast majority of the best mountain rifles.

Think there's multiple definitions being thrown around here.  The current sales/gun writer use for 'mountain rifle' is a really lightweight/ long, contoured barrel, generally bolt gun in a flat shooting caliber.  Even the muzzy world is doing this--shaving off weight and it now becomes a 'mountain rifle'.

[beaslayer6]

If you are looking for light gun buy a bolt gun. tikka is great or or the Kimber ascent in a 300wsm or 270wsm or have one built.. I have a 338rum in a light which is a bear to shot but awesome to carry around in the mts. in a Alaska. its right at 6.5lbs with a scope. but its not friendly. If you don't like heavy recoil rifles.. a guide gun in a 45-70 would be sweet to own but. for a mt. gun they don't have the best ballistics as jackelope pointed out.. 10" low at 200yards. Where do you plan on hunting with this gun. The bush would be where I would be with it.

[Curly]

http://hunting-washington.com/smf/index.php/topic,184688.msg2438920/topicseen.html#new

Here you go.  Check out the link above. Not my idea of a mtn rifle, but maybe would fit your definition.

[Fl0und3rz]

http://hunting-washington.com/smf/index.php/topic,184688.msg2438920/topicseen.html#new

Here you go.  Check out the link above. Not my idea of a mtn rifle, but maybe would fit your definition.

I was just thinking about this, too. 

Many options are out there.  I would probably go with the Remington 700 Mountain or Ruger All Weather.  Both are about sub-8# with scope.  If you want a brush gun, go with the Marlin.  I have all three.

With the OP specs, I'd go with a TC, but with a flatter shooting caliber.  I need one of these.

[Longbowz]

As already mentioned a Tikka T-3 Lite or Ultralite is probably the best deal in a lightweight mountain rifle going.

Another option if you can find one is a Remington 600 or 660.  I recently found a 660 in .308 that was in almost new condition.  My problem now is as soon as my wife saw it she claimed it as her new rifle!     

[Curly]

Mongo,

BTW - that BLR that is for sale weighs in at only 6.5 lbs.  That is 1/2 pound lighter that the 2 options you were considering.  Plus in .308 win, the trajectory would be much better than a 45-70.

BLR '81 specs

[Mark251]

The Tikka is a great choice...lightweight, accurate and durable.  I think Cabelas has them marked down to $500 right now....I believe they are also adding $50 worth of "Cabelas Bucks" to use on your next purchase.

[MountainWalk]

Handi-Rifle?

[high country]

A point to consider, the 45-70 may be a light and handy rifle, heck I have some and they are.....but the extra mag capacity adds a possibility of gaining nearly a pound of ammo. Those big slugs add up fast.

When I go to a mountain rifle, I consider the ammo. Can I carry a few extra shells without a noticeable weight gain? Not in a big bore....

[yorketransport]

You might want to message YorkeTransport on here and get his opinion on a Savage Striker. 

I saw that guy on the interwebs, he seems legit!

Since you don't want a bolt gun and you like the Encore, why not an Encore Prohunter pistol in 7-08? It will weigh less, offer better range, and do anything that the rifles will do with a little practice.

Or I can help you slap together a bolt action pistol in 300 RUM if that's more your speed Mine weighed less than 7# scoped and would duplicate the 300 win mag's ballistics without even breaking a sweat.

Andrew

[mountainman]

.45-70. 0 at 100 yards, 10" low at 200.



.500 S&W 0 at 100. 20" low at 200.




If you like to hunt up close and personal go for it. Otherwise I wouldn't bother with either of your 2 choices for a mountain rifle.

That's using a 430gr bullet. the Hornady Leverlution is a bit better trajectory wise than that, but anyways. the only "new" cartridges I'm willing to add are 45-70 or a 308. so is there another light, small gun in either 30-06, 25-05, 7mm, 308 or 45-70?

Buy a TC Encore or Pro Hunter with a .308 barrel. When someone says mountain rifle, I think lightweight, somewhat compact etc.
I just weighed my Encore. It's a 24" SS .280 Rem, 4-16x42 Vortex scope, claw sling and a Harris bipod. It weighs 9.2 pounds with all that stuff. I'd drop the bipod and lose a pound or so if I was hunting in the mountains. If I wanted to save more weight id put a smaller scope on it. I could be under 8 pounds ready to roll. You could do the same thing with pretty much whatever caliber you want.

9.2#'s? Would not class that as a lightweight mountain gun. Love the TC's, but there are better choices that will get down under 6.5#'s complete!

[huntnphool]

Savage 111 Lightweight is short with a 20" barrel and comes in at 5.5# without the scope, http://www.gunbroker.com/Auction/ViewItem.aspx?Item=518026429 good deal on one right here in 7mm-08.

[TeacherMan]

Love my Kimber Ascent in 308. Topped it with a 4.5-14 Leupold and its golden!

[Stein]

I'll take a different tack on an answer.  Your original question was whether you should spend $1,000 - $1,500 (not counting new dies, load work, trips to the range, etc) on a new rifle to save about a half a pound?

If it were me, I wouldn't consider that.  Honestly, for $1,000 I could buy a S***ton of gas, drive to the mountains on the weekends and do some late season hunting and pre-season scouting next year and end up gaining way more by loosing a few pounds and getting in better shape.

That's just my view.

[coachcw]

I couldn't get my self to buy a kimber . just to light and wasn't sold on accuracy except for one combo with a ttsx . the savage lw or the ruger compact american would be a good mountain choice in 7mm 08 . good to 300-400 light enough to pack and cheap enough to scratch .

[jackelope]

.45-70. 0 at 100 yards, 10" low at 200.



.500 S&W 0 at 100. 20" low at 200.




If you like to hunt up close and personal go for it. Otherwise I wouldn't bother with either of your 2 choices for a mountain rifle.

That's using a 430gr bullet. the Hornady Leverlution is a bit better trajectory wise than that, but anyways. the only "new" cartridges I'm willing to add are 45-70 or a 308. so is there another light, small gun in either 30-06, 25-05, 7mm, 308 or 45-70?

Buy a TC Encore or Pro Hunter with a .308 barrel. When someone says mountain rifle, I think lightweight, somewhat compact etc.
I just weighed my Encore. It's a 24" SS .280 Rem, 4-16x42 Vortex scope, claw sling and a Harris bipod. It weighs 9.2 pounds with all that stuff. I'd drop the bipod and lose a pound or so if I was hunting in the mountains. If I wanted to save more weight id put a smaller scope on it. I could be under 8 pounds ready to roll. You could do the same thing with pretty much whatever caliber you want.

9.2#'s? Would not class that as a lightweight mountain gun. Love the TC's, but there are better choices that will get down under 6.5#'s complete!

I wouldn't disagree with that, and I don't consider mine a mountain gun. Only reason I mentioned it was because an Encore is one of the rifles he wanted in his original post.
PS my 9.2# rifle is with a 4-16x scope, a bipod and a Quake Claw sling.