Hornady Superformance Ammunition 444 Marlin 265 Grain Flat Nose Box of 20

The 444 Marlin, also known as .444 Marlin, is a powerful and versatile rifle cartridge that has gained popularity among hunters and shooting enthusiasts. Developed by Marlin Firearms Company in the late 1960s, this cartridge was designed to offer a flat-shooting and hard-hitting round for big game hunting. With its unique characteristics and impressive performance, the 444 Marlin has become a favorite among those who seek a reliable and effective firearm.

History of the 444 Marlin

The history of the 444 Marlin dates back to the late 1960s when Marlin Firearms Company recognized the need for a powerful cartridge that could compete with the .45-70 Government. The .45-70 Government was a popular choice for hunters, but it had limitations in terms of flat trajectory and long-range capabilities. Marlin aimed to develop a cartridge that could offer similar power but with improved ballistics.

In 1964, Marlin introduced the Model 444 lever-action rifle, chambered in .444 Marlin. This rifle was an instant success among hunters and shooters who appreciated its power and versatility. The 444 Marlin quickly gained a reputation for its ability to take down large game, such as deer and black bear, with a single well-placed shot.

Historical Significance

The introduction of the 444 Marlin had a significant impact on the firearms industry. It provided hunters with a viable alternative to the .45-70 Government, offering improved ballistics and performance. The 444 Marlin filled a gap in the market for a powerful cartridge that could be used in lever-action rifles, which were popular among hunters for their quick follow-up shots and ease of use.

The 444 Marlin also played a role in the resurgence of lever-action rifles, which had been overshadowed by bolt-action rifles in the mid-20th century. Its success prompted other manufacturers, such as Ruger and Winchester, to develop their own lever-action rifles chambered in .444 Marlin or similar calibers. This renewed interest in lever-action rifles contributed to the popularity of the 444 Marlin and solidified its place in firearms history.

Advantages of the 444 Marlin over other calibers

The 444 Marlin offers several advantages over other calibers, making it a preferred choice for many hunters. One of the primary advantages is its versatility in taking down a wide range of games. With its powerful and heavy bullet, the 444 Marlin is capable of delivering devastating terminal performance, ensuring a quick and humane kill.

Another advantage of the 444 Marlin is its flat trajectory and long-range capabilities. The cartridge is designed to shoot relatively flat, allowing hunters to make accurate shots at extended distances. This makes it suitable for hunting in open areas or situations where long shots may be required.

Additionally, the 444 Marlin performs well in lever-action rifles, which are known for their reliability and quick follow-up shots. The lever-action design allows for rapid cycling of the action, enabling hunters to take multiple shots if needed. This can be crucial in situations where a wounded animal needs to be quickly dispatched.

The 444 Marlin also offers excellent bullet selection, with a variety of bullet weights and types available on the market. This allows hunters to tailor their ammunition to the specific game they are pursuing, further enhancing the effectiveness of the cartridge.

444 Marlin ballistics and performance

The ballistics of the 444 Marlin are impressive, making it a formidable choice for hunting big game. The cartridge typically fires a heavy bullet at high velocities, resulting in deep penetration and controlled expansion upon impact.

The most common bullet weight for the 444 Marlin is 265 grains, which strikes a balance between trajectory and terminal performance. This bullet weight, when fired from a 24-inch barrel, achieves muzzle velocities of around 2,350 feet per second. It delivers a muzzle energy of approximately 3,200 foot-pounds, providing ample stopping power for large game animals.

At 100 yards, the 444 Marlin retains a significant amount of energy, with velocities averaging around 1,900 feet per second and energy exceeding 2,300 foot-pounds. This ensures that the bullet maintains its effectiveness and can reliably take down the game at medium ranges.

The 444 Marlin’s trajectory is relatively flat for a big-bore cartridge, allowing hunters to make accurate shots at varying distances. With proper zeroing and understanding of the bullet’s trajectory, hunters can confidently take shots out to 200 yards or more, depending on their marksmanship skills.

Overall, the ballistics and performance of the 444 Marlin make it a reliable and effective choice for hunting large game at moderate distances. Its combination of power, accuracy, and versatility has made it a favorite among hunters seeking a hard-hitting cartridge.

444 Marlin vs. 45-70: A comparison of power and effectiveness

The 444 Marlin and the .45-70 Government are often compared due to their similar power and use in lever-action rifles. Both cartridges are popular among hunters for their ability to take down large game, but there are some differences worth noting.

In terms of power, the 444 Marlin and the .45-70 Government are fairly evenly matched. Both cartridges fire heavy bullets at high velocities, resulting in significant energy transfer upon impact. The .45-70 Government typically offers slightly more bullet weight options, with bullets ranging from 300 to 500 grains, compared to the 444 Marlin’s 265-grain standard bullet weight.

When it comes to trajectory and range, the 444 Marlin has a slight advantage. Its flatter trajectory allows for more accurate shots at longer distances compared to the .45-70 Government. The 444 Marlin’s higher velocities also contribute to its longer effective range, making it a preferred choice for hunters who anticipate shots beyond 100 yards.

In terms of availability and pricing, the .45-70 Government has a slight edge. It has been around for a longer time and has a larger following, resulting in a wider selection of rifles, ammunition, and reloading components. However, the popularity of the 444 Marlin has been steadily growing, and ammunition and reloading components are readily available from various manufacturers.

In conclusion, both the 444 Marlin and the .45-70 Government are powerful and effective cartridges for hunting large game. The choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference and specific hunting requirements. Both cartridges have their strengths and weaknesses, so it is essential for hunters to consider factors such as range, trajectory, bullet selection, and availability when making their decisions.

Popular uses for the 444 Marlin

The 444 Marlin is primarily used for hunting large game, such as deer, black bear, and feral hogs. Its powerful and heavy bullet, combined with its flat trajectory and long-range capabilities, make it an excellent choice for taking down these animals with a single, well-placed shot.

Deer hunting is one of the most popular uses for the 444 Marlin. Its ability to deliver deep penetration and controlled expansion ensures a quick and humane kill, minimizing the risk of wounded game. The cartridge’s flat trajectory also allows for accurate shots at varying distances, making it suitable for hunting in a variety of terrains.

Black bear hunting is another popular application for the 444 Marlin. The cartridge’s power and heavy bullet provide the necessary stopping power to take down these large and potentially dangerous animals. The 444 Marlin’s flat trajectory and long-range capabilities also come in handy when hunting in open areas where shots may need to be taken at extended distances.

Feral hogs have become a significant nuisance in many parts of the United States, and the 444 Marlin is well-suited for dealing with these destructive animals. The cartridge’s power and penetration allow for effective shots on hogs of varying sizes, while its flat trajectory makes it suitable for hunting in areas where shots may need to be taken at longer distances.

Overall, the 444 Marlin is a versatile cartridge that excels in hunting large game. Its power, accuracy, and range make it a reliable choice for hunters seeking an effective cartridge that can handle a variety of game animals.

Availability and pricing of 444 Marlin ammunition

The availability and pricing of 444 Marlin ammunition have improved over the years as the cartridge has gained popularity. Today, hunters and shooting enthusiasts have several options when it comes to purchasing factory ammunition for their 444 Marlin rifles.

Major ammunition manufacturers, such as Hornady, Remington, and Winchester, produce 444 Marlin ammunition in various bullet weights and configurations. These loads are specifically designed for hunting applications and offer reliable performance and terminal ballistics.

The pricing of 444 Marlin ammunition varies depending on the brand, bullet weight, and type of ammunition. On average, hunters can expect to pay between $30 and $40 for a box of 20 rounds. This price range is comparable to other big-bore rifle cartridges and reflects the quality and performance of the ammunition.

In addition to factory ammunition, reloaders have the option to hand load their 444 Marlin cartridges. Reloading offers several benefits, including cost savings and the ability to tailor loads to specific hunting requirements. Reloading components, such as brass, bullets, and powder, are readily available from various manufacturers, allowing reloaders to create custom loads that suit their needs.

When purchasing or reloading 444 Marlin ammunition, it is essential to ensure that it complies with local laws and regulations. Some states have restrictions on the use of certain cartridges for hunting, so hunters should familiarize themselves with the specific rules in their area.

Overall, the availability of 444 Marlin ammunition has improved, and hunters have numerous options to choose from. Whether purchasing factory ammunition or handloading their own, hunters can find reliable and effective loads for their 444 Marlin rifles.

Lever-action rifles chambered in 444 Marlin

Lever-action rifles chambered in 444 Marlin offers a unique combination of power, reliability, and quick follow-up shots. These rifles have a rich history and continue to be popular among hunters and shooting enthusiasts who appreciate their classic design and functionality.

Marlin Firearms Company is the leading manufacturer of lever-action rifles chambered in 444 Marlin. The company offers several models that cater to different preferences and hunting requirements. The Marlin Model 1895, available in various configurations, is a popular choice among hunters due to its reliability and versatility.

The Marlin Model 1895 features a lever-action design that allows for quick cycling of the action, enabling rapid follow-up shots if needed. The rifles are typically equipped with a tubular magazine that holds 4 to 5 rounds of 444 Marlin ammunition, providing ample firepower for most hunting situations.

These rifles are built to withstand the recoil and pressure generated by the 444 Marlin cartridge. They feature robust actions and solid construction, ensuring durability and longevity. The rifles are also equipped with reliable iron sights, although many models offer the option to mount a scope for increased accuracy and range.

Other manufacturers, such as Ruger and Winchester, have also produced lever-action rifles chambered in 444 Marlin or similar calibers. These rifles offer their own unique features and characteristics, providing hunters with additional options when choosing a firearm.

When selecting a lever-action rifle chambered in 444 Marlin, it is essential to consider factors such as weight, barrel length, and overall ergonomics. These aspects can vary between models and can have an impact on the rifle’s handling and suitability for different hunting situations.

Overall, lever-action rifles chambered in 444 Marlin offers a classic and reliable platform for hunters. Their combination of power, quick follow-up shots, and versatility make them a favored choice for those seeking a dependable firearm for hunting large game.

What is the range of a Marlin 444?

The range of a Marlin 444 largely depends on various factors, including bullet weight, barrel length, muzzle velocity, and environmental conditions. However, as a general guideline, the effective range of the 444 Marlin can be considered to be around 200 to 250 yards.

The 444 Marlin is known for its flat trajectory, which allows for accurate shots at varying distances. With proper zeroing and understanding of the bullet’s trajectory, hunters can confidently take shots out to 200 yards or more, depending on their marksmanship skills.

At longer distances, the bullet drop becomes more significant, requiring adjustments in aiming. Bullet selection, muzzle velocity, and environmental conditions, such as wind and humidity, can also influence the effective range of the 444 Marlin.

It is important to note that the effective range of a rifle cartridge is not the same as the maximum range. While the 444 Marlin may be capable of firing projectiles beyond 250 yards, the accuracy and energy of the bullet significantly decrease at longer distances, making it less suitable for hunting purposes.

Ultimately, hunters should consider their shooting abilities, the terrain they are hunting in, and the game they are pursuing when determining the appropriate range for their Marlin 444. Practicing at various distances and understanding the ballistics of the cartridge will help hunters make accurate and ethical shots in the field.

What is the Smokeless Powder for the 444 Marlin

The 444 Marlin is a powerful rifle cartridge that has been popular among hunters and sports shooters for many years. One of the key factors that contribute to its performance is the use of smokeless powder. Smokeless powder is a type of propellant that is commonly used in modern firearms. It is called “smokeless” because it produces very little smoke when ignited, unlike the black powder that was used in the early days of firearms.

In the case of the 444 Marlin, the specific type of smokeless powder used can vary depending on the load and the manufacturer. However, some popular choices include powders like Hodgdon H4198, Accurate 1680, and IMR 4198. These powders are known for providing consistent performance and reliable ignition in the 444 Marlin.

Smokeless powder offers several advantages over black powder. It burns more efficiently, producing higher velocities and more consistent pressures. This results in improved accuracy and greater energy transfer to the target. Additionally, smokeless powder is less corrosive than black powder, which helps to prolong the life of the firearm.

In What Year was the Original Model of the Marlin 444 Rifle Discontinued?

The Marlin 444 rifle has a rich history that dates back to its introduction in 1964. This lever-action rifle was designed to chamber the powerful 444 Marlin cartridge and quickly gained popularity among hunters and enthusiasts. However, like many firearms, the original model of the Marlin 444 rifle was eventually discontinued.

The original model of the Marlin 444 rifle was discontinued in 1983. This marked the end of an era for the iconic lever-action rifle. Although the original model is no longer in production, it remains a sought-after collector’s item and is still widely used by hunters and sport shooters.

Since the discontinuation of the original model, Marlin has introduced several other variants of the 444 rifle, including the Marlin 444P Outfitter and the Marlin 444S. These newer models feature various improvements and enhancements while still retaining the power and reliability that the 444 Marlin cartridge is known for.

Where to Buy a 444 Marlin Rifle

If you’re interested in purchasing a 444 Marlin rifle, there are several options available to you. One of the best places to start your search is at your local firearms dealer. They will often have a selection of rifles in stock, including those chambered in 444 Marlin. Additionally, they can provide expert advice and guidance to help you make an informed decision.

If you prefer the convenience of online shopping, there are numerous reputable websites that specialize in firearms sales. These websites often have a wide range of rifles available, including the 444 Marlin. Some popular online retailers to consider include GunBroker, Sportsman’s Warehouse, and Cabela’s.

When purchasing a 444 Marlin rifle, it’s important to ensure that you comply with all local, state, and federal laws regarding firearm ownership and sales. Be sure to complete any necessary background checks and paperwork before taking possession of your new rifle.

Reloading Tips and Load Data for the 444 Marlin

Reloading ammunition for the 444 Marlin can be a rewarding and cost-effective way to enjoy shooting this powerful cartridge. By reloading your own ammunition, you have greater control over the components used and can tailor your loads to suit your specific needs and preferences.

When it comes to reloading the 444 Marlin, there are a few key tips to keep in mind. First and foremost, always follow safe reloading practices and consult reputable reloading manuals for loading data. This will ensure that you are using appropriate components and loads that are safe for your firearm.

For the 444 Marlin, there are several powders that are commonly used, including Hodgdon H4198, Accurate 1680, and IMR 4198. These powders provide consistent performance and are well-suited for the 444 Marlin cartridge.

In terms of bullet selection, there are a variety of options available, ranging from lightweight varmint bullets to heavy, deep-penetrating bullets for large games. Popular bullet weights for the 444 Marlin include 240 grains, 265 grains, and 300 grains.

It’s important to note that reloading ammunition requires careful attention to detail and adherence to proper procedures. If you are new to reloading, consider seeking guidance from experienced reloaders or taking a reloading course to ensure that you are reloading safely and effectively.

Recommended Specifications Lever-Action Rifles Chambered in .444 Marlin

When it comes to choosing a lever-action rifle chambered in .444 Marlin, there are several factors to consider. The following are some recommended specifications to help guide your decision-making process:

1. Action Type: Lever-action rifles are known for their reliability and quick follow-up shots. Look for a rifle with a smooth and responsive action that allows for fast cycling of the lever.

2. Barrel Length: The barrel length can impact both the overall length and weight of the rifle. A shorter barrel may be more maneuverable in tight spaces, while a longer barrel can provide increased velocity and accuracy. Consider your intended use and personal preferences when selecting a barrel length.

3. Sights: Lever-action rifles typically come with open sights, but some models may also have the option for mounting a scope. Choose a rifle with sights that suit your shooting style and preferences.

4. Capacity: The capacity of the rifle refers to the number of rounds it can hold. Lever-action rifles typically have a tube magazine under the barrel, which can hold anywhere from 4 to 6 rounds. Consider your shooting needs and whether a larger capacity is necessary for your intended purpose.

5. Stock and Fit: The stock of the rifle should be comfortable and provide a secure grip. Consider the length of pull, cheek weld, and overall ergonomics to ensure a proper fit.

By considering these specifications and assessing your needs, you can find a lever-action rifle chambered in .444 Marlin that is well-suited to your shooting preferences.

Exploring Alternative Calibers: 444 Marlin vs. 450 Bushmaster and 308

The Marlin 444 cartridge is known for its power and versatility, but how does it compare to other popular calibers? Let’s take a closer look at how the 444 Marlin stacks up against the 450 Bushmaster and the 308 Winchester.

444 Marlin vs. 450 Bushmaster

The 444 Marlin and the 450 Bushmaster are both powerful cartridges that are well-suited for hunting large game at close to moderate ranges. Both cartridges offer excellent stopping power and are capable of taking down deer, hogs, and other similar-sized animals.

In terms of ballistics, the Marlin 444 typically fires heavier bullets at lower velocities compared to the 450 Bushmaster. This can result in deeper penetration and greater energy transfer on impact. However, the 450 Bushmaster often has a flatter trajectory and may be more suitable for longer-range shots.

When considering these calibers, it’s important to also factor in ammunition availability and cost. The Marlin 444 has been around for several decades and has a wide range of ammunition options available. On the other hand, the 450 Bushmaster is a relatively newer cartridge and may have more limited options and higher costs.

444 Marlin vs. 308 Winchester

The 308 Winchester, also known as the 7.62x51mm NATO, is a popular caliber that is widely used for hunting and target shooting. It offers excellent accuracy, moderate recoil, and a wide range of ammunition choices.

Compared to the Marlin 444, the 308 Winchester fires smaller and lighter bullets at higher velocities. This can result in a flatter trajectory and better long-range performance. However, the Marlin 444 typically offers greater stopping power and is better suited for hunting larger game at closer ranges.

Ultimately, the choice between the 444 Marlin, the 450 Bushmaster, and the 308 Winchester will depend on your specific shooting needs and preferences. Consider factors such as intended game, shooting distances, and ammunition availability when making your decision.

Conclusion: Is the 444 Marlin the Right Choice for You?

The Marlin 444 is a powerful and versatile cartridge that offers excellent performance for hunting and sport shooting. With its deep penetration and stopping power, it is well-suited for taking down large games at moderate ranges.

Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or an avid shooter, the 444 Marlin can be a great choice for those seeking a reliable and hard-hitting rifle cartridge. Its availability, wide range of bullet options, and the ability to reload your own ammunition make it a popular choice among enthusiasts.

However, it’s important to consider your own shooting needs and preferences when deciding if the 444 Marlin is the right choice for you. Take into account factors such as the type of game you plan to hunt, the distances you will be shooting, and the availability and cost of ammunition.

If you do decide to go with the Marlin 444, be sure to explore the wide range of rifles available chambered in this caliber. Consider the recommended specifications, such as action type, barrel length, and sights, to find a rifle that suits your needs.

The Hornady Superformance line of ammunition is known for its high-performance characteristics, including increased muzzle velocity and flatter trajectory. The use of specialized propellants and bullet designs allows for improved ballistics compared to traditional loads. The 265-grain flat-nose bullet is designed for reliable feeding and expansion upon impact. The flat nose shape is often preferred for hunting purposes as it can deliver deep penetration and controlled expansion.

Ultimately, the choice of caliber is a personal one, and what matters most is finding a cartridge that meets your specific needs and preferences. Whether you choose the 444 Marlin, the 450 Bushmaster, or the 308 Winchester, always prioritize safety and responsible shooting practices. Happy shooting!