I'm looking to buy a lever action. I have been looking for a while now. I have a few in mind but I really like the look and features of the Marlin 1895 SBL. Now I have heard some really negative things about Marlins being produced recently. Things like ill fitting stocks, bad loading gates, poor metal finishes, crooked sights..etc. I really want to get one but I would love some feedback from an actual owner as I have no interest in buying a brand new firearm that will need to be fixed out of the box. Thanks guys.
Marlin 1895 SBL .45-70 Gov't 18.5" Barrel Laminate Stainless
- Thread starter IanON
- Start date
My experience is limited I've had 3 SBL's over the past couple of years and a JM stamped. While the JM stamped (which was only made very briefly) was a very nice and smooth rifle, the Remlin's functioned 100% and were very accurate. If you like the look of the gun and can find one I would not hesitate
nomad 68
CGN Ultra frequent flyer
Buy in person.Chances are, if you order online, you will be sending it to the Gravel Agency. Better still, if the shop you are buying from has a gunsmith, get it throroughly checked for issues.
OneBarfly
CGN Ultra frequent flyer
Last year I bought a new GBL from Epps sight unseen. The in-letting was garbage, as was the attitude from the sales person. Something to the effect of "it's typical" and "what do you expect for that price". I did get some credit for the return and bought an SBL. No problems and very accurate.
I picked up a sbl from wholesale a couple weeks ago. First one I've seen in person on a shelf since the takeover. Cycled it once and paid for it. Functions just as good as both my 45 and 30-30 xlr's that are both jm stamped. Best thing is to put your hands on it and make sure you like the feel. As for the sbl. 3 shots to sight in with 325g leverlution and a Leupold 2.5 scout scope and it will shoot right around moa of a bag.
Really crappy buckhorn and bead.
SBL was the first of the new Marlins to get the bugs out. really great if you buy a newer one. Function flawlessly and fit finish rival any of the JMs. Last year of the JM stuff was bigger junk than the Remlins. Buy a new SBL and you absolutely wont regret it and they come with pretty good ghost ring already. Might need to oil the heck outa it and find a kid to cycle it a few hundred times. Then order a safety delete and a metal shell follower from beartooth mercantile. A stupid crossbolt safety on a guide gun gets you killed. Stupidest idea ever.
