If you could buy just one Marlin....

[BigUglyMan]

1881.

 

[mmattockx]

An 1893 or early 36 (square bolt) in 38-55. Been looking for one for a while that is in good shape and the seller doesn't think is gold plated.


Mark

 

[pazzo]

Nice rifle, that Trapper is! How long have you owned it?

OTOH .... I'd hardly call all Marlins "junk". The older ones (pre cross bolt safety) are fine rifles indeed.

.

I bought it new at the end of Sept.

I stand corrected it seems - the 1895G I had did indeed come with the cross bolt safety, and felt sloppy as hell when cycling the action. Although with the Skinner rear peep sight it was bloody accurate. I honestly didn’t feel comfortable cycling it in a "defensive" situation as sometimes it would jam or just not cycle smoothly. I didn’t bother working on the gun because the tolerances just didn’t seem that tight and it seemed pointless to smooth up the action only to have play in other moving parts.

This Miroku .44 Mag is so damn smooth I can’t help but shake my head and wonder how long it will last

 

[Charlie38]

One in a 375 Win

 

[TACTICAL111]

I'd hardly call all Marlins "junk". The older ones (pre cross bolt safety) are fine rifles indeed.

Don't think that's what people are trying to say.

I too have been burned by a modern Marlington 336 and would never purchase one again.
I have no doubt that the older versions were most likely VERY fine levers, but times have most definitely changed.

This Miroku .44 Mag is so damn smooth I can’t help but shake my head and wonder how long it will last

I had the same initial response ( I own the 200th 1894 30-30 commemorative set) also made in Miroku.

The fit, finish (inside & out) weight and attention to every little detail hits home quick.
Secondly you're struck by the SMOOTHNESS of it.
No squeaks from the loading spring or grinding noises from the action and to top it off, a trigger to DIE for....just total butter. A beautifully made package

My first uttered response to myself after working the action and trigger was "so THIS is what a lever should feel like"

Twice the price, yes, but I'd pay it no hesitations.

 

[bogie]

I have an older (1951 or so)in 35rem that shoots really well. I also have a Winchester Miroku 45/70 that is pretty nice to shoot too. Both very well made and cycle smoothly.