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  • Post category:Ammunition / Rifle Ammunition
  • Post last modified:April 6, 2024
  • Post published:March 31, 2021

Best 444 Marlin Ammo - Editor's Choice

What is 444 Marlin Ammo?🔍

It is a powerful rifle cartridge that was introduced in 1964 by Marlin Firearms and Remington Arms. It is a rimmed, straight-walled cartridge that is designed for use in lever-action rifles.

The 444 Marlin is known for its high energy and long-range capabilities, making it an ideal choice for hunting big game such as elk, bear, and moose. The cartridge can push a 240-grain (16 g) bullet at velocities over 2,400 ft/s (730 m/s) generating 3,070 ft⋅lbf (4,160 J) of energy. SAAMI has rated this cartridge at 44,000 CUP.

Please watch this video to learn more information📺

 

Advantages🚀

The cartridge has gained popularity among hunters and sports shooters for several reasons, and some of the benefits  include:

  1. ✴️ Powerfulness: It is a potent round, delivering significant energy and stopping power. It is well-suited for hunting large game like deer, elk, and black bear at moderate ranges.
  2. ✴️ Versatility: This cartridge is versatile, making it suitable for various hunting situations and shooting applications. It performs well in wooded areas and open fields alike.
  3. ✴️ Large diameter bullets: It uses .429 to .430-inch diameter bullets, which offer excellent terminal ballistics and expansion on impact, increasing the chances of an ethical kill.
  4. ✴️ Availability: While not as widely available as some other popular rifle cartridges, this ammunition is generally accessible at gun stores, sporting goods retailers, and online outlets.
  5. ✴️ Lever-action rifles: Lever-action rifles provide a classic and nostalgic shooting experience, making them popular among traditional firearms enthusiasts.
  6. ✴️ Recoil management: Despite its power, the .444 Marlin produces manageable recoil, especially when compared to some other big-bore magnum cartridges.

It’s important to note that the benefits of any ammunition depend on the specific needs and preferences of the shooter. Always ensure that you use appropriate ammunition for your firearm and intended use, and adhere to all safety guidelines and legal regulations concerning firearms and hunting.

Our Top Pick
Remington Core-Lokt 444 Marlin Ammo 240 Grain
The Core-Lokt stands unrivalled, holding the record for the most successful hunting load globally. Constructed using a proven formula, this ammunition guarantees massive expansion and substantial weight transfer, attributed to its double-width cores. The Core-Lokt provides remarkable expansion at double the original diameter and superior weight retention, making it an unwavering choice for hunters who prioritize exceptional terminal ballistics.
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Types🧐

Full metal jacket (FMJ) bullets are the most basic type. They are made of a solid copper or steel jacket that surrounds a lead core. FMJ bullets are accurate and offer good penetration, but they do not expand on impact, so they may not be as effective in large games. Hollow point (HP) bullets are designed to expand on impact, creating a larger wound channel. This makes them more effective on large games, but they can also be less accurate than FMJ bullets.
Soft point (SP) bullets are a hybrid of FMJ and HP bullets. They have a soft lead core that is designed to expand on impact, but they also have a copper jacket that helps to improve accuracy. SP bullets are a good choice for hunters who want a bullet that is both accurate and effective in large games. Ballistic-tipped (BT) bullets are designed to improve accuracy and penetration. They have a pointed tip that helps to reduce drag, and they also have a special core that is designed to expand on impact.

Features🎯

The .444 Marlin is characterized by a combination of robust features that make it a unique and powerful choice for big game hunting.

✳️ Firstly, its large-calibre size contributes to a high energy transfer upon impact, ensuring deep penetration which is critical when hunting larger game species. This characteristic makes it particularly effective for hunting deer, black bears, and elk.

✳️ Secondly, this Ammo is noted for its high-velocity performance. This means that it can deliver a flat trajectory, allowing for superb accuracy over medium to long ranges. This feature, coupled with its impressive stopping power, makes this ammunition a preferred choice among many hunters.

✳️ Thirdly, the Ammo can be reloaded. This allows hunters to customize loads according to their specific needs, thus enhancing the performance and efficiency of their hunting rifles.

✳️ Lastly, it is designed to be compatible with specific firearms, particularly lever-action rifles. It is always essential to check the compatibility of your firearm with the ammunition to ensure safety and effectiveness.

In conclusion, the .444 Marlin is a versatile and powerful ammunition type with a range of features designed to offer superior performance for big-game hunting.

444 Marlin Ammo Review | Best 444 Marlin Ammo

ImageProductBrand
Hornady LEVERevolution 444 Marlin Ammo 265 GrainHornadyBUY
Remington Core-Lokt 444 Marlin Ammo 240 GrainRemingtonBUY
Federal Premium HammerDown 444 Marlin Ammo 270 GrainFederal PremiumBUY

#1 Hornady LEVERevolution 444 Marlin Ammo 265 Grain

Hornady LEVERevolution 444 Marlin Ammo 265 Grain

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The Hornady Revolution .444 Marlin Flex Tip ammunition showcases an innovative combination of cutting-edge technologies, elevating its performance beyond traditional flat point loads. The patented Flex Tip technology in the bullets grants higher ballistic coefficients and increased velocities of up to 250 fps. What makes this truly impressive is that it accomplishes this while ensuring safety in tubular magazines through shock-absorbing properties.

Thanks to the utilization of modern propellants, this ammunition achieves maximum muzzle velocity within conventional pressures, delivering flatter trajectories and significantly enhanced downrange energy. The result? Exceptional accuracy and overwhelming terminal performance that surpasses conventional loads. In fact, the Leverevolution ammunition exhibits up to 40% more energy than standard flat-point bullets. Beyond its energy and trajectory advantages, the higher ballistic coefficients of the FTX and MonoFlex bullets also provide consistently flatter trajectories, ensuring reliable and predictable performance. When using this ammunition, you can trust that it will deliver the power and precision you need.

Pros:
  • Revolutionary Features: The bullets incorporate a standout technology called Flex Tip, distinguishing this ammo with increased velocities and superior ballistic coefficients, while still maintaining safety in tubular magazines.
  • Superior Performance: By using contemporary propellants, this ammunition is capable of reaching peak muzzle velocity. This leads to not only flatter trajectories but also unrivalled downrange energy.
  • Unmatched Terminal Performance: When compared to traditional loads, this ammunition stands out with its impressive weight retention and up to 40% more energy than standard flat-point bullets.
Cons:
  • Recoil: The higher velocities and energies achieved by this ammunition may result in slightly increased felt recoil, which could be a consideration for some shooters, particularly those sensitive to recoil effects.

#2 Remington Core-Lokt 444 Marlin Ammo 240 Grain

Remington Core-Lokt 444 Marlin Ammo 240 Grain

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Welcome to the time-proven performance of Remington Core-Lokt 444 Marlin Ammo with its legendary controlled-expansion bullet technology. Since 1939, hunters across the globe have trusted this premium hunting ammunition for its consistent and reliable on-game results. The Core-Lokt’s track record speaks for itself, having filled more tags than any other load in the world. Crafted with a tried-and-true formula, this ammunition offers big expansion and heavyweight transfer, thanks to its double-diameter cores.

The Core-Lokt ensures double-diameter expansion and exceptional weight retention, making it a dependable choice for hunters seeking superb terminal performance. The copper jacket is precisely tapered and locked to a solid lead core, delivering massive 2X expansion and excellent weight retention. These qualities translate to consistent on-game results, giving hunters the confidence they need in the field. Each box contains 20 rounds, and for convenience, a case includes 20 boxes.

Pros:
  • Consistent Expansion: The unique construction, featuring double-sized cores and a locked copper jacket, ensures predictable and substantial expansion upon impact, amplifying the ammunition’s stopping capabilities.
  • Outstanding Weight Retention: The Core-Lokt’s exceptional weight retention minimizes fragmentation and encourages deep penetration, leading to effective and responsible hunting outcomes.
  • Variable Options: Catering to a multitude of hunting situations and preferences, the Core-Lokt ammunition comes in an expansive range of bullet weights and calibres.
Cons:
  • Moderate Ballistic Coefficients: As a traditional design, the ballistic coefficients of Core-Lokt bullets may not match those of some newer, more aerodynamic bullet designs, potentially affecting long-range performance.

#3 Federal Premium HammerDown 444 Marlin Ammo 270 Grain

Federal Premium HammerDown 444 Marlin Ammo 270 Grain

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Step into a new era of lever-gun performance with Federal Premium HammerDown ammunition, crafted specifically for optimal cycling and overall excellence in time-tested rifle platforms. This unique ammunition stands out as the industry’s sole design tailored for superior performance in lever-action firearms, promising to take your shooting experience to the next level. These loads are meticulously engineered to achieve velocities that deliver remarkable ballistics and terminal performance through lever-action barrel lengths.

The key to this exceptional performance lies in the molecularly bonded soft point bullets, specially adjusted to ensure the best possible accuracy and expansion at these velocities. You can trust this ammunition to deliver precision and stopping power when it matters most. To guarantee flawless cycling through tubular magazines and typical lever-action feeding systems, each round’s case, bullet, and cartridge geometry have been expertly configured. This ensures seamless and reliable function, minimizing the chance of feeding or cycling issues during crucial moments in the field.

Pros:
  • Maximized Lever-Action Rifle Efficacy: This ammunition is specifically engineered for lever-action rifles, significantly enhancing their cycling and overall functionality.
  • Tailored Velocities: Their velocities are meticulously modulated to provide optimal ballistics and terminal performance through the barrel lengths of lever-action rifles, fully exploiting your firearm’s capabilities.
  • Molecularly Fused Soft Point Projectiles: These specially designed soft point projectiles are molecularly fused, guaranteeing top-tier precision and expansion at the velocities produced by this ammunition.
Cons:
  • Price: Due to its specialized design and premium performance, the cost may be higher compared to standard loads, which could be a consideration for budget-conscious shooters.

Reloading🛠️

Reloading .444 Marlin ammunition is a process that allows shooters to craft their own cartridges, tailoring them to specific preferences and needs. It’s important to note that reloading ammunition requires proper knowledge, safety measures, and attention to detail. Here’s a detailed description of the reloading process:

  1. ☑️ Gather the necessary equipment: To reload ammunition, you’ll need a few essential tools and components, including:
    • Brass cases: Used cases from fired ammunition can be collected or purchased. Ensure they are in good condition and free from defects.
    • Primers: Small pistol or rifle primers are typically used for the .444 Marlin.
    • Powder: Choose an appropriate smokeless powder suitable for the .444 Marlin cartridge. Follow load data from reputable sources to determine the correct powder charge.
    • Bullets: Select high-quality .429 to .430-inch diameter bullets suitable for your shooting application, whether it’s hunting or target shooting.
    • Reloading press: A single-stage or progressive press is needed for the reloading process.
    • Dies: You’ll need .444 Marlin-specific reloading dies, including a resizing die, a bullet seating die, and a crimp die.
  2. ☑️ Clean and inspect brass cases: If you’re using once-fired brass, clean it thoroughly using a tumbler to remove dirt, residue, and carbon buildup. Inspect each case for any signs of damage, cracks, or splits. Discard any damaged cases.
  3. ☑️ Resizing and depriming: The first step in reloading is to resize the brass cases. Place a .444 Marlin resizing die into the reloading press and follow the manufacturer’s instructions to resize and deprime the cases in one step.
  4. ☑️ Priming: Insert a primer into the primer arm of the reloading press. With the resized and deprimed case in position, activate the press to seat the primer in the primer pocket of the case.
  5. ☑️ Charging with powder: Use a powder scale or dispenser to measure the correct powder charge according to load data. Carefully pour the powder into the charged case.
  6. ☑️ Bullet seating: Place the appropriate bullet into the case mouth and raise the press handle to seat the bullet to the desired depth. Follow load data to achieve the correct overall cartridge length.
  7. ☑️ Crimping: To prevent bullet movement during recoil, use the crimp die to apply a slight crimp to the case mouth around the bullet.
  8. ☑️ Inspection: After completing the reloading process, inspect each reloaded round for any irregularities or defects.
  9. ☑️ Testing: Before using the reloaded ammunition for serious shooting or hunting, it’s crucial to perform a small patch test to check for accuracy, consistency, and safety. Start with the minimum recommended powder charge and work your way up while observing for any signs of pressure signs.

Always follow established reloading manuals and use load data from reputable sources. Properly label and store your reloaded ammunition separately from factory ammunition. Keep in mind that reloading can be dangerous if not done correctly, so make safety your top priority throughout the process. If you are new to reloading, seek guidance from experienced reloaders or attend reloading classes to ensure you have a good understanding of the process and safety procedures.

We believe this video can be helpful for you📺

FAQ❓

What is the difference between .45-70 vs. .444 Marlin ammo?

The .45-70 Government and the .444 Marlin are both large-bore, straight-walled cartridges that are popular for hunting big game. They are similar in many ways, but there are also some key differences between the two cartridges.

💠 Similarities

  • Both cartridges have a large diameter bullet, which makes them effective for stopping large game animals.
  • Both cartridges are capable of firing a wide variety of bullet weights, from 250 grains to 600 grains.
  • Both cartridges are relatively powerful, with muzzle energies of up to 3,000 foot-pounds.
  • Both cartridges can be used in a variety of rifles, including lever-action rifles, bolt-action rifles, and single-shot rifles.

💠 Differences

  • The .45-70 is a slightly larger cartridge than the .444 Marlin. This means that the .45-70 can fire heavier bullets, which can give it a slight edge in terms of stopping power.
  • The .444 Marlin has a slightly higher muzzle velocity than the .45-70. This means that the .444 Marlin has a flatter trajectory, which can make it easier to hit the game at longer ranges.
  • The .45-70 is a more popular cartridge than the .444 Marlin. This means that there are more rifles chambered for the .45-70, and there is a wider variety of ammunition available for the .45-70.

💠 Which cartridge is better?

The best cartridge for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. If you are looking for the most powerful cartridge, then the .45-70 is a good choice. If you are looking for a cartridge with a flatter trajectory, then the .444 Marlin is a good choice. Ultimately, the best way to decide which cartridge is right for you is to try both and see which one you prefer.

Watch this video to find more information💻

 

What is 444 Marlin Ammo used for?

The .444 Marlin ammunition is commonly used for big game hunting due to its powerful impact and ballistic performance. Known for its high velocity and large-calibre size, it is especially effective when hunting larger animals such as deer, moose, and bear. Its accuracy and knockdown power make it a preferred choice for hunters aiming for a quick, humane kill.

Furthermore, the .444 Marlin can also be used for mid-range shooting competitions and, in some cases, self-defence. It’s valuable for those who require a versatile, hard-hitting round.

What rifles can chamber 444 Marlin Ammo?

The .444 Marlin ammunition was initially designed for the Marlin Model 336 lever-action rifle, and over the years, it has been adopted for use in a variety of other firearms. Here are some of the notable rifles that can chamber the .444 Marlin.

  1. ✔️ Marlin Model 336: This is the original rifle for which the .444 Marlin was designed. The Model 336 lever-action rifle offers exceptional strength and renowned accuracy, making it ideal for handling the powerful .444 Marlin cartridge.
  2. ✔️ Marlin Model 1895: Another Marlin lever-action, the Model 1895, can also chamber the .444. This model’s robust construction and precision make it another excellent platform for the .444 Marlin.
  3. ✔️ Henry H009B .444 Marlin: The Henry H009B is a lever-action rifle that can chamber the .444 Marlin. Known for its craftsmanship and reliability, the Henry H009B exhibits smooth action and a high level of accuracy.
  4. ✔️ CVA Hunter Single Shot Rifle: The CVA Hunter is a single-shot rifle capable of chambering the .444 Marlin. Its simplicity and affordability make it an attractive option for hunters seeking a single-shot rifle.
  5. ✔️ Thompson Center Encore Pro Hunter: The Encore Pro Hunter is a single-shot rifle that offers interchangeable barrels, including one for the .444 Marlin. This makes it an incredibly versatile option, allowing for the use of different calibres for different hunting scenarios.
  6. ✔️ Ruger No. 1: The Ruger No. 1 is a high-quality single-shot rifle that has garnered a reputation for its precision and elegance. It’s available in several calibres, including the .444 Marlin, providing hunters and shooters with a top-tier platform for this potent round.

These rifles are renowned for their durability, precision, and adaptability, making them excellent platforms for the .444 Marlin. However, as always, it’s important to remember that the performance of the ammunition can vary depending on the characteristics of the firearm, including barrel length, rifling twist rate, and overall condition.

What is the effective range of .444 Marlin Ammo?

The effective range of .444 Marlin ammo is generally considered to be around 200 yards. This means that the bullet will still have enough energy to make a humane kill at this range. However, the effective range can vary depending on the specific load of ammunition being used, the accuracy of the rifle, and the skill of the shooter.  Here are some factors that can affect the effective range :

  • Bullet weight: Heavier bullets will retain their energy better over longer ranges, so they will have a longer effective range.
  • Muzzle velocity: A higher muzzle velocity will also give the bullet more energy, so it will have a longer effective range.
  • Accuracy of the rifle: A more accurate rifle will allow you to hit your target more consistently, so it will extend the effective range of your ammunition.
  • The skill of the shooter: A more experienced shooter will be able to make more accurate shots, so they will be able to extend the effective range of their ammunition.

🟥 It is important to note that the effective range is not the same as the maximum range. The maximum range of the cartridge is much longer, but the bullet will not have enough energy to make a humane kill at this range. If you are planning on hunting with .444 Marlin ammunition, it is important to practice shooting at different ranges so that you can learn how to effectively use the cartridge at its maximum range. You should also be aware of the limitations of the cartridge and only take shots that you are confident you can make.

Is .444 Marlin Ammo safe to use?

Yes, it is safe to use if it is handled properly. Like all ammunition, it is important to follow the safety guidelines when handling and using this ammo. These guidelines include:

  • ✔️ Always keep ammunition in a safe place where it is not accessible to children or unauthorized persons.
  • ✔️ Never point a firearm at anything you are not willing to destroy.
  • ✔️ Always be aware of your target and what is beyond it.
  • ✔️ Use the correct ammunition for your firearm.
  • ✔️ Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for loading and unloading your firearm.
  • ✔️ Clean and maintain your firearm regularly.

If you follow these safety guidelines, the ammo is safe to use. However, it is important to remember that all ammunition is dangerous if it is not handled properly. Here are some additional safety tips for using .444 Marlin:

  • ✔️ Always wear eye and ear protection when shooting.
  • ✔️ Use a sturdy rest when shooting from a standing position.
  • ✔️ Start with low-power loads and work your way up to higher-power loads as you become more comfortable with the cartridge.
  • ✔️ Be aware of the recoil of the cartridge and use a rifle that is properly fitted to you.

If you are new to shooting ammo, it is a good idea to take a hunter safety course or a firearms safety course. These courses will teach you the basics of gun safety and how to handle and use firearms safely.

Conclusion 🔔

A comprehensive exploration of the extraordinary 444 Marlin Ammo. From its powerful composition to the range of advantages it offers, this cartridge has rightfully earned its place among the top contenders in the big bore realm. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter, a self-defence enthusiast, or just someone who loves the thrill of shooting, this ammo won’t disappoint. So load up, take aim, and experience the adrenaline-pumping performance of this remarkable ammo! Happy shooting!

Tags: 444 marlin ammo, 444 marlin ammo ballistics, 444 marlin ammo for sale, Hornady 444 marlin ammo, .444 marlin ammo, marlin 444 ammo

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Paneter
Paneter
8 months ago

It’s important to mention that my 444 doesn’t feature a microgroove. Additionally, I’ve consistently observed that Hornady ammunition stands out as top-tier when it comes to pre-made ammunition.

    Levarne
    Levarne
    8 months ago

    Is 444 Marlin suitable for hunting in thick brush or wooded areas?

      Natalia
      8 months ago
      Reply to  Levarne

      🟢 Absolutely! One of the advantages of 444 Marlin Ammo is its ability to punch through thick vegetation and brush, making it a favored round for hunting in dense forests or areas with challenging sightlines.

        Rex
        Rex
        8 months ago

        My tenure at Marlin, specifically in the Gallery department conducting proof tests and targeting, lasted between four to five years. My preference tilts towards the .444 over the 45/70, primarily due to its manageability despite a harder kick. While the 45/70 exhibits more muzzle rise, the .444, in contrast, is easier to control and allows for quicker repetition.

          Jason
          Jason
          8 months ago
          Reply to  Rex

          I had initially planned on purchasing a 45-70, but considering I already owned a .45 calibre in the 577/450, it seemed redundant. Instead, I opted for a .444 Marlin from 1981 (with a JM stamp), offered to me by a farmer acquaintance who was looking to sell. I’ve been using it with Hornady 265gr ammunition, and it’s proven to be a fantastic firearm. It’s effectively taken down any target I’ve aimed at. Despite the .444 having a stronger kick than the.45, I find it more manageable, especially in terms of maintaining control of repeated shots.

            Edward
            Edward
            8 months ago

            A colleague and hunting buddy of mine is preparing for a deer hunting expedition in Ohio. He’s looking to acquire a straight case setup, but for reasons unexplained, isn’t interested in the 45-70. To keep expenses low, I proposed the H&R single shot in 444. His immediate query mirrored the title of this piece. My answer was inconclusive, but I knew where to get the information. Although most shots would be within 100 yards, he wondered if it’s possible to target at 150 or even 200 yards using factory ammunition. I’m certain this won’t be his last question on the matter. Appreciate the help.

              Natalia
              8 months ago
              Reply to  Edward

              🟡 The effective range of 444 Marlin Ammo depends on various factors, including the specific rifle, bullet type, and shooter’s skill. In general, it’s considered effective out to around 150 to 200 yards for most hunting applications.

                Mathew
                Mathew
                8 months ago
                Reply to  Edward

                A deer can indeed be taken down with that firearm if you’re able to accurately place a shot at a distance of 200 yards. I suggest calibrating your sight for a 100-yard range initially, then practice shooting at targets placed at 150 and 200 yards. This will help in understanding the holdover required. However, it’s essential to note that achieving a 200-yard shot from a deer stand with a lever-action rifle is likely beyond the capabilities of most individuals. While such a shot might be possible from a bench, it’s far more challenging from a deer stand.

                  Morris
                  Morris
                  8 months ago
                  Reply to  Edward

                  My CVA 444 is incredibly accurate, having the precision to strike a pie plate at a range of 200 yards. It’s currently calibrated to hit a target 4″ above the bullseye at 100 yards. Next week, a friend will be testing its reliability during our trip to Ohio. As for me, I’ll be relying on my 444p. Although similarly configured to the CVA, I’ve yet to test its accuracy at the 200-yard mark like the CVA. Both rifles are loaded with Hornady Superformance 265 ammunition.

                    Bandit
                    Bandit
                    8 months ago
                    Reply to  Edward

                    For deer hunting, the Hornady’s flex-tip expanding bullet should be effective up to the farthest distance that can be accurately targeted. To exceed a distance of 200 yards, extensive practice would be required. I calibrate my 444 to a range of 150 yards, and observe about a 6″ drop at 200 yards using the 300-grain Speer. The tapered bullet assists, but beyond 200 yards, and possibly even less, understanding the bullet’s path and refining shooting skills become crucial.