"Ask the Rabbi" by R. Mermelstein
QUESTION: Dear Rabbi Mermelstein:
What caliber should I consider in
lever action guns, assuming a .30-30 is too light? All factors
considered, including accuracy, range, speed, energy and so on, what
is/are in your opinion the best round(s) for a lever action
rifle? thanks for the benefit of your opinion.
R R Cohn
4 Aug 1999
ANSWER: Dear Mr. Cohn,
The Browning BLR is available in cartridges usually associated with
bolt action rifles. The reintroduction of the Winchester Model 95 is an
example of a lever action rifle chambered for the .30-06. There is no
"best" round for any type of rifle, only the most suitable round for a
specific application. For big bore knockdown energy in a light lever
action rifle to be used within 150 yards, the Marlin 1895SS in .45-70
Gov't. is a marvelous design. The same can be said for the Marlin 444SS
chambered for the .444 Marlin. A cartridge superior in every way to the
.30-30 Win. is the .35 Reminigton. Marlin's Model 336CS is available in
that chambering. Take your pick, based on how the rifle is going to be
used.
Because of the traditional lever action rifle's two-piece stock, and
several other factors, an out of the box bolt action rifle (scoped)
will shoot tighter groups than a scoped lever action rifle. A bolt
action rifle that proves to be the exception to this general rule is in
sore need of a good stock bedding job, for starters. You mention
accuracy, range, speed, energy, etc. as criteria for selection. That
being the case, look to the Browning BLR with a box magazaine that can
safely use modern high pressure cartridges.
Sincerely,
R. Mermelstein
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