whats the average used 45/70 marlin, like the picture you posted above, going for near you?
at that time good used 45/70 marlins sold for only about $150 less than new blrs

I know I sold mine too cheaply when I upgraded to a browning BLR in 450 marlin
I prefer the strait grip BLR version
my marlin would consistently provide 2" 100 yard three shot groups, the blr does a bit better , at near 1.4" 3 shot bench rest groups,
but at about 140 fps faster with the same 405 grain bullet weight