Actual mechanical accuracy, there should be no difference. But of course, if you use iron sights the longer sight radius is always a help.Thanks again for all the input!
I think I've settled on purchasing a Marlin... But I'm having trouble deciding between an 1895 XLR (24" barrel) and the 1895 SBL (18.5" barrel). Do you think I'd see any noticeable difference in accuracy between the two?
Still as mentioned, the shorter tube is easier to tote (though they weigh only a bit less) and they do, for me, handle better.
Which ever you go with, look into doing a Happy Trigger from Wild West Guns, and as long as you are in there, change the ejector to one of their Bear Proof Ejectors. I doubt you need the ejector upgrade, but I just like the one piece better. It makes reassembly a bit easier after cleaning. Plus, you then have a spare.
If you're not a fan of the crossbolt safety (useless as tits on a boar in my opinion) there are several ways to either deactivate it or remove it.