Is stainless better?
 

I have been looking at the Marlin 1894 in 44 mag at Dick's sporting goods. I can get the std one for $439, and the stainless version is $519.

What advantages does the stainless have (except it no rusting)? Is the barrel stable after it gets hot?

RE: Is stainless better?
 

only advantage in that gun would be the resistance to rust. Barrel stable after shot?

RE: Is stainless better?
 

The only advantages that stainless has over carbon metal are: #1-more rust protection,#2-tougher so throats last longer due to higher chromium content.

RE: Is stainless better?
 

But don't be mistaken that stainless steel will not rust. If you neglect stainless it will rust.

RE: Is stainless better?
 

My question isabout the difference in materials. Different metals expand and contract differently due to the heat.

RE: Is stainless better?
 

44 mag I wouldn't be concerned at all or even in a high intensity cartridge in the 60K range. I would be more concerned about fit and finish and absence of tool marks.

RE: Is stainless better?
 

Stainless requires considerably less maintenance than regular blued steel. That's the ONLY advantage. BUT, stainless is not totally rust-proof. It will also rust if something is not done to it to keep it clean and dry too!

Stainless barrels arenot, generally speaking, more accurate than chrome-moly barrels. As a matter of fact, stainless is harder to machine accurately, and often stainless barrels are not as accurate as regular barrel steel.

RE: Is stainless better?
 

buy the blued and then get a finish put on it that will be rust proof and almost maintanance free. do a search for duracoat and birdsongs black t finish.