I bought the 1895 in .45-70. I handled both and I did not feel that the extra 3" affected how fast I shouldered it. I like the curved grip on the 1895 much better than the straight grip on the guide gun. I also wanted the longer barrel to help with the 100-150 yard shots that I sometimes get. I had talked to some guys that had the early guide guns with the ported barrels and they complained of the noise. I do not believe they are ported anymore.

I think either will work fine, I just prefer the curved grip and longer barrel.