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Compare Best Guide Guns head to head
Pick any two picks from this list and see specs, current price, pros, cons and reader ratings side by side.
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#7 on this list
Patriot .375 Ruger
Mossberg
The budget dangerous-game bolt that actually works, with a fluted barrel and a usable adjustable trigger.
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- No reader votes yet
- How we assessed it
- Specification researched
#8 on this list
1895 Trapper .45-70
Marlin
A 16-inch threaded-barrel lever gun that carries like a carbine and shoots like a cannon.
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- No reader votes yet
- How we assessed it
- Specification researched
Specs side by side
| Spec | Patriot .375 Ruger | 1895 Trapper .45-70 |
|---|---|---|
| Action | Bolt-action | — |
| Caliber | .375 Ruger | — |
| Capacity | 3+1 rounds | — |
| Stock | Synthetic | — |
| Barrel Length | Often 22-inch | 16 inches |
| Trigger | User-adjustable | — |
| Intended Use | Dangerous game hunting | — |
| Action Type | — | Lever Action |
| Cartridge | — | .45-70 Government |
| Muzzle | — | Threaded (11/16"-24) |
| Magazine | — | Tubular, 5+1 rounds |
| Materials | — | Stainless Steel, Laminate Stock |
What our reviewers liked and didn't
Patriot .375 Ruger
- Excellent value for a true dangerous-game rifle
- Reliable feeding and extraction of potent cartridges
- Surprisingly crisp and adjustable trigger for its price point
- Tough, weather-resistant synthetic stock
- Solid accuracy for hunting large, dangerous animals
- No-frills aesthetic might not appeal to all hunters
- Factory recoil pad could be upgraded for heavy use
- Limited aftermarket support compared to higher-end brands
1895 Trapper .45-70
- Excellent stopping power in a compact package
- Stainless steel construction for all-weather durability
- Threaded barrel allows for suppressor use
- Handles quickly and carries well in thick terrain
- Reliable lever action mechanism
- Substantial recoil with full power loads
- Laminate stock is less traditional visually
- Heavy enough to be noticeable on long carries
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