Any suggestions for a Marlin 1895GBL? I can hit with it as is but my son really can't. Need something rugged and good for 100 yards.

https://www.leupold.com/vx-freedom-3-9x40-muzzleloader-ultimateslam-riflescope

This is what I have on my 1895. Handles recoil well since it's designed for muzzleloaders and slug shotguns. Generous eye relief.

I have a a Leupold VX3 1.5x5x20mm on mine. It's light, has good eye relief, and you don't need more than 5x on a .45-70.

I have the stainless version of the 1895 with walnut stock. I put an XS rail on it with a Leupold VX3 2.5-8x36 which works really well and is very compact.

Not the answer you wanted but this is the OB. …..
XS Rail and peep sights are adequate for 100 yards. Teach your son to use iron sights. Is that a JM stamped Marlin? Those are great rifles.

McInnis said:

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I have a a Leupold VX3 1.5x5x20mm on mine. It's light, has good eye relief, and you don't need more than 5x on a .45-70.

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Really unique butt sling 'catch', if that's what it is…
Can you tell me more about that??
Never seen anything like that before.

As mentioned lower power scopes are the answer here, just make sure you are getting something rated for the recoil. I'd look at 1-6, 2.5-8x or even fixed power scopes. I'd also consider just a red dot of various types.

Also, I'm assuming we're talking about an older kid here considering this is a .45-70, so have you really looked into why he can't hit with iron sights? Have you double checked eye dominance?

I couldn't hit anything open sight up to about 12, but could shoot fine with a scope. That was when my dad first checked my eye dominance. I'm very glad I switched that young as it really wasn't that hard after the first few times and now its natural as an adult.

If you do put a scope on it, Highly recommend that you put a hammer extension on it. Hell, I like them with or without the scope.

+1 for the hammer extension.

Also, most people don't install them correctly, IMO.
For a right hander, the extension should be on the left side of the hammer. This way your had does not have to rotate any to pull the hammer back while looking thru the scope.

I found this out while using the extensions on my TC pistols and carbines.

I got the buttstock cover from this guy:

Leverguns

He'll build a custom one with anything you want on it, he does good work.

And another yes on the hammer extension. I lost my first one when the allen screw came loose so on the second one I packed the opening with gorilla glue. It won't happen again.

Doc Hayworth said:

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+1 for the hammer extension.

Also, most people don't install them correctly, IMO.
For a right hander, the extension should be on the left side of the hammer. This way your had does not have to rotate any to pull the hammer back while looking thru the scope.

I found this out while using the extensions on my TC pistols and carbines.

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I was always taught to not ride my thumb on top of the stock and keep it pointed in the direction of the target so as not to inadvertently introduce torque on the rifle if when pulling the trigger you also tighten the grip with your thumb. I usually ride it on the right side of the stock feels more natural to me when you get used to it and your trigger hand is more relaxed.

Made by Redfield, I have a Browning 2x7 on mine. I've used it for the last 14 years with no problems. Not as expensive as others and stands up to the 45-70 recoil. I think mine was in the neighborhood of
$129

I swapped my standard irons for some Vi-hiz sights.

I tried to put a scope on it but having a problem with the mount. Your gonna have to send that Marlin to me. Be warned though I'm pretty slow on sending things back!

javajaws said:

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I tried to put a scope on it but having a problem with the mount. Your gonna have to send that Marlin to me. Be warned though I'm pretty slow on sending things back!

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Before I sold mine to some undeserving scoundrel from Texags…I found that rifle was an indirect fire platform. You need this:

i put a leupold 1-6 on mine