I think I've already made up my mind, but wanted to get other's opinions.Louisiana has started alowing single shot rifles patented before 1900 that are chambered for .38 caliber or larger to be used for primitive weapons season. There are several rifles that qualify. I've narrowed it down to H&R 1871 which is offered in 44mag, 444 Marlin, and 45-70 Gov't. I know the latter 2 have quite a bit more umph but am actually considering the 44mag so my 6 year old can shoot it in a few years. Not counting my son I think I'll go with the 45-70. I know it lacks a bit of power compared to the 444, but with the cor-bon loads I can get just about all I need out of it. Anyway, I'm rambling now... what's your opinions?

I bought a Marlin 1895 XLR in 45-70 that I will use for the new season. I put a dowel in the tubular mag so it's a single shot. After primitive season, the dowel comes right out.

I'd go with the 45/70, if you handload you can load up some pretty mild loads for the young'in to shoot. The ol 45/70 was one of the first guns I grew up shooting as a kid. I shot the crap outta my cousins Ruger #1 with mild handloads and it was pretty tame. The factory loads are all pretty mild until you step up into the Corbons, etc.

If a magazine plug really does qualify for a "single shot" gun, then there are many guns I'd consider before on manufactured as a single shot.

If not, I'd got to the 45/70. I have one and like it a lot. Don't know where you heard a 444 has more power, the 45/70 can be loaded hot or mild.

another vote for the 45-70

I live and hunt in LA and I just boughtthe H and R 45-70, killed a hog with it at Fort Polk WMA this weekend and it worked excellant... Couldnt be happier with this lil gun...

444 Marlin.. vote. I have one in the HR handi rifle.. If your gonna let your boy shoot it then go with the 44mag.. Just an FYI.. MS had the same law, they changed it this year to allow any single shot rifle with 35 or greater caliber. Alot of folks are now going with an Encore. Just swap out the barrells

45-70

I thought they were only allowing breech loaded rifles patented prior to 1900

By putting the dowel in the magazine, it becomes a single-shot, breech loaded rifle. The design is 1895. This wasn't the intent of lawmakers when they wrote the bill, but it fits all elements of the law, so it's legal.