Here is a bit more information that might influence you, what is the best buy! I figured out how to track internet sale prices on AA and GB a little over five years ago and here are the average sale prices of some specific models in my data base.
444
444 (old production, pre "S") - $425
444 (current production, NIB) - $463
444S - $418
444SS - $397
444P - $460
444T (24" barrel rifles) - $409
45-70
1895 (old production, pre "S") - $430
1895 (current production, NIB) - $513
1895G - $476
1895S - $538
1895SS - $476
450 Marlin
1895M - $455
1895MR - $528
To help you wade through the models
- Old production rifles and the 444T had straight grip stocks.
- S (Sporter) rifles introduced the pistol grips now used in current production rifles and the discontinued MR.
- SS rifles are the Sporter with the "side safety" which is also used in the current production rifles, the MR, and the carbines.
- Finally, the carbines are the G, M, and P with straight grip stocks, 18 1/2" ported barrels, and "side safety".
In a nutshell, don't bother with a used rifle. In most cases you can buy a NIB 444 or 1895 for less. A 444 will cost $50 less than a 1895. If you are going to go with the 1895 in 45-70, stay away from the S or SS as a current production rifle is less than the auction prices on these used rifles.
As far as the carbines go, very few "M"s turn up, the average price listed above is primarily new rifles. I guess the owners are satisfied with them. The average above for "G"s is a strong mix of used rifles and some new (my database tracks all these rifles by their condition but that information is beyond this topic). "P"s are moving into the 375, 336ER, etc. class. They are a good value now, if you can find one, but they have become few and far between.
The 1895MR is a very rare rifle and a pleasure to shoot. I think the 450 Marlin cycles from magazine tube to chamber so much smoother than the 45-70. The only thing that beats the cartridge cycle of the 450 Marlin is the early production 444 and 444T that uses a "lifter" on the carrier to level the cartridge before sliding it forward. That, is very slick.
I've never tracked anything other than these blued steel/walnut rifles as this is my area of interest. As of late, I find myself looking for and old production 1895 to round my battery out with. Just watching for a great buy.
Any of these rifles are way beyond adequate for use on any NA game animals.