It was about two months ago when I got the 444 Marlin chambered in the 444 Marlin, which I have heard referred to the Marlin Triple 4 or the Triple 4 Marlin. I am just trying to cover all my bases on how this fine lever gun and its cartridge have been referred to.
First Impressions
The 444 Marlin or Marlin 444 is a quite attractive lever gun with its Black Walnut stock and forearm.
Factory checkered pistol grip and forearm help you keep a solid purchase even with gloves on and factory installed sling swivel studs are there if you elect to install a sling.
Cross bolt safety worked perfect as the other Marlin lever guns I have reviewed.
Factory drilled and tapped for scope mounts if you choose to add some glass to your rifle. Notice the removable hammer spur extension to aid in cocking the hammer if you do have a scope installed. The trigger broke about five pounds with a little take-up and some overtravel. The trigger on this rifle is pretty typical for Marlin lever guns, which I believe is more than adequate.
Semi Buckhorn rear sight is adjustable for elevation.
Tall front sight post that is factory hooded for protection.
Range Time
100 yard 3 shot groups from a rest with iron sights.
The LEVERevolution printed the best groups measuring at 2 1/2″ In my opinion that is not bad at all for iron sights.
Conclusions
The 444 Marlin cartridge is basically, an extended 44 Magnum but holds far greater energy than the 44 Magnum. I see the 444 Marlin filling the gap in say a 44 Magnum brush gun and heavy hitting big game rifle such as the 458 Winchester. There is not much difference between the 444 Marlin and the .45-70, as reviewed here but it is worth noting the 444 Marlin has a bit more energy inside of 200 yards and does it with a bit less recoil. When compared to the venerable 30-30 Winchester the 444 Marlin hits much harder and uses a bullet with a much larger profile cutting a larger wound channel. So you see the 444 Marlin has some advantages over a few other lever gun cartridges. As expected over about 150 rounds downrange there were no issues as the 444 Marlin performed as it should. If you are in the market for a big game rifle that is also suitable for medium game or just a big bore lever gun to have a little fun with the 444 Marlin is an excellent option.
Specifications
- 22″ barrel, Ballard rifling
- 1:20″ twist rate
- Adjustable semi-buckhorn rear sights
- Polished blue finish
- Four round magazine (total capacity – 5)
- American black walnut stock with pistol grip
- 40 1/2″ long
- Weight 7.6 pounds
- MSRP $815.14
Acknowledgments
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Hey Hunter you got me thinking….Informative objective review as always. Trust you are in good health.
Take Care
Canada Bob
It would be nice if cvc made a rifle in 4570 and 444 caliber .
You will have to do some round ball loads
.333 diameter
Many others claim 13 grains unique worked for them.
.
And then load some of those empty cases with # 6 or 7 shot… topped with plastic soda bottle circles to keep it all 2gether…
As a shotgun,,,
I hear 50 feet with the micro groove barrel
25 to 30 feet Ballard fast twist
I have turned the test sample back in to Marlin. Sounds like great advice though for anyone who is handloading for the triple 4.