I think you should buy the 444 Marlin, the 45-70 government, and the 450 Marlin. I think you should test all three and report back to us. I think you should recommend that we also buy all three. Then I could use your reports as an excuse to buy a couple of new rifles. I have never owned a 444, or a 450 Marlin. But I sure love my 45-70's. Tom.