The Marlin Trapper lever-action rifle is back – Now in 10mm Auto

In the US, the last months of the year are traditionally rather stingy with news, as American companies tend to wait for the SHOT Show – which takes place in January – to unveil new products.

Marlin made an exception, unveiling at the end of October the latest addition to its lever-action rifle lineup: it is a 10mm Auto version of the Trapper 1894 model, but that's not all. Along with the rifle, the launch of LEVERevolution ammunition in 10mm Auto, specifically for use in lever-action rifles, was announced.

Sturm, Ruger & Company, Inc. takes great pride in presenting the first 10mm Auto lever-action rifle where Marlin's legendary craftsmanship merges with the versatility of the 10mm Auto, setting a new standard for lever action innovation.

The Model 1894 of the Trapper series is a short and handy gun, ideal for small to medium game hunting, home/territorial defence and informal shooting (plinking), which fulfils a need already felt by the men of the Far West, namely to have a rifle and a pistol chambered in the same caliber. In Wyatt Earp's time, this was made possible by the combination of lever action-rifles and revolvers in .38-40 or .44-40; in modern times, cartridges such as the .357 or .44 Magnum are used. Today it is the turn of the 10mm Auto, a relatively modern cartridge that after a period when it seemed to have been forgotten, is making a comeback thanks to modern and reliable semi-automatic pistols and PCCs. Now, thanks to Marlin and Hornady, lever-action rifle enthusiasts will also be able to shoot it safely.

Like other models in the Trapper Series line, the 10mm Auto version features a 41 cm (16.17") cold hammer-forged barrel (and the now ubiquitous muzzle threading) and a Skinner Sights system with rear peep sight for rapid target acquisition. In addition, the stainless steel receiver, lever loop, tubular magazine (with a capacity of 10 rounds) and barrel feature an attractive anti-reflective satin finish. The aesthetics between tradition and modernity are complemented by a laminated wood stock and a "big loop" lever that allows for comfortable use even when wearing winter gloves.

In addition to the great features for which the Trapper Series line is known, this new model also has an upgraded fire control system. The sear is now e-nickel Teflon-plated and the sear notch geometry in the hammer has been improved to create a smoother and more consistent trigger feel.

But the Marlin Trapper 1894 rifle is only part of the equation: Hornady also played its part by presenting a specific cartridge in conjunction with the gun.

New Hornady LEVERevolution 10mm Auto cartridge

Optimised for lever-action rifles, LEVERevolution 10mm Auto cartridges feature a 150-grain FTX bullet that provides great accuracy, making them an excellent option for any hunter. The elastomer tip is specifically designed for use in tubular magazines, where it prevents possible primer ignitions caused by recoil. Although designed for lever actions, the cartridge is also an excellent choice for revolvers and semi-automatic rifles. The Hornady LEVERevolution in 10mm Auto has a muzzle velocity of 1,220 fps (371 m/s) and a muzzle energy of 496 ft/lb, equal to 672 joules.

The price in the USA of the Marlin Trapper 1894 in 10mm Auto is $1,599.

Marlin Trapper 1894 technical specifications and price