Some of the best things seem to always come from digging around in history. While digging around looking for Rolling Block and High Wall 45-70s I came across a small but dedicated group of people who love the Marlin-Ballard made between 1875-1891. My further research into these rifles showed that they were single shot and had impressive accuracy and were reliable. Anywho instead of going on a tangent, since seeing that Marlin is bringing back older models I wonder if they'll bring back some of these classic designs. I have been craving a single shot 45-70 and would like an alternative to the Rolling Block and High Wall designs
History of Ballard Rifles


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Had a tickling feeling in the back of my mind when I read that post. Quick search and yup, there is an outfit already making a repro Ballard. They also make High and Low Wall Repros, so don't start kicking at me that I don't know what a Ballard is when the topmost thing you see at the link isn't one...

Ballard Traditional Rifles


My old one was rebarrelled with a very heavy round barrel and has a completely different forend shape than it started with. I used to hang out with and pester the gunsmith that did the work and saw the original, relatively thin, octagonal barrel and almost splinter forend laying around. It would've been a completely different rifle as it was originally set up. However, as it is now, it shoots very well indeed.

 

I couldn't find that website I'm glad you posted that. Although I wonder if there is a way so that the action of these rifles can handle pressures high than 28000 psi.

 

Remlin cannot even make regular production models consistently so I have my doubts they could ever pull anything like this off. OP what 'older models' is Marlin bringing back?

 

444 and the 336 cowboy in 38-55 are the next two models I see people asking Marlin to get right, plus I see the 308 and 338 fanboys begging on their forum posts

 

I have a J.M. Marlin Ballard in 45-70 Govt. patent # Nov 5, 1861 that has a straight smooth (no checkering) stock, 1/2 octagonal barrel,forged action rear peep(0riginal) and front blade sight. I am trying to determine if it is a #4 Perfection or a # 4 1/2.

Any help would be appreciated.