I love the Marlin 1895, but your question leaves a lot unasked. Using what ammo? From what distance? Under what circumstances? And most importantly, where are you contemplating a possible encounter with said brown bear? read more
My vote is the versital 12ga. As far as I know the best gun for self defense in close quarters. That goes for in your castle as well as at the River. That said, I need to brag about my new 45–70 Marlin 1895 lever gun by Wild West Guns. I bought the Copiolit and put a Leupold 1–5 With an optional Red Dot. read more