Looking for Info on .357 Maximum Lever Guns!

Gunsmithing & DIY
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Introduction

I’ve recently been diving into the world of lever-action rifles, and I’m particularly interested in the .357 Maximum cartridge. I’d love to learn more about which lever guns are compatible with this round, as well as any potential gunsmith modifications that can enhance performance.

Compatibility Concerns

It seems like there aren’t a ton of options out there for .357 Maximum lever guns. I’ve seen some discussions about the Marlin 1894 and its ability to handle .357 Magnum, but what about the Maximum? Are there specific models that can be readily chambered for this cartridge?

Modifications and Customization

If there are limited factory options, I wonder about gunsmith modifications. Have any of you had experience getting a .357 Maximum conversion done on a standard .357 Magnum lever gun? What was involved in the process, and how does it affect the reliability and accuracy of the rifle?

Performance Comparisons

Additionally, I’m curious about how the .357 Maximum stacks up against the traditional .357 Magnum and other related cartridges. For those who have experience using it for hunting or target shooting, how do the ballistics compare? Does the extra power of the Maximum make a significant difference in real-world scenarios?

Conclusion

I know there are quite a few firearms enthusiasts here who probably have insight into these questions. Any advice, personal experiences, or resources you could share would be greatly appreciated! Looking forward to a great discussion!

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I’ve been considering a .357 Maximum lever gun too! The Marlin options are quite popular due to their reliability and smooth action. Anyone have experience with them?

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I’ve had a Marlin and loved it! Another brand to look into is Henry; they have great build quality and unique designs.

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Don’t forget about the custom options! Gunsmiths can make some impressive lever guns in .357 Maximum if you’re looking for something personal.

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I have to agree with Manuel. Custom builds can be pricey, but the quality is unmatched! Have you thought about your budget yet?

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For features, consider the weight and length of the gun. A lighter model is more maneuverable, but heavier ones absorb recoil better. What’s your priority?

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I prefer the heftier models for stability. They feel more solid when shooting. But a lively gun can make for more fun at the range!

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Good point! My budget is around $1,000. What would you guys recommend in that price range?

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In that range, I’d suggest looking at the Marlin 1894 or the Rossi. Both have excellent reviews on durability and performance.

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I’ve heard mixed reviews about Rossi’s quality, though. Has anyone had a bad experience with them?

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I had a Rossi that jammed often, which was frustrating. It might just be luck of the draw, but I’d stick with Marlin if I were you.

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Speaking of luck, it’s like finding a great bottle of wine! You never know what you’ll get until you open it, right? Haha.

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Haha, very true! But unlike wine, I have a hard time with the idea of ‘one bad grape’ in a firearm. Just something to ponder.

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I’ve been handloading for my .357 Maximum lever gun for years. A good place to start is using 158 or 180-grain bullets. I highly recommend using H-110 or W-296 powder for optimal performance.

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I’m curious about bullet choice. Do heavier bullets perform better at longer distances in .357 Maximum lever guns?

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Great question, @dana37! I’ve found 180-grain bullets tend to have better stability in flight, especially for longer-range shots. They also hit harder on impact!

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I agree with @villarrealmelissa. When using heavier bullets like the 180-grain, consider a medium load to avoid excessive recoil. I’ve had great success with 16.5 grains of H-110.

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What about lower grain bullets? Are they just as effective?

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Lower grain bullets, like 158-grain, can be very effective, especially for short-range shooting. They also offer lighter recoil, making them easier to manage when shooting multiple rounds.

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That’s helpful! Any specific powders that pair well with lighter bullets?