This rifle doesn't sound very impressive for an item pushing $1300.00.
You have a good point savage112. Unfortunately, Marlin needs to make some improvements, no doubt at all. Now in saying that, these SBL CSBL models are one of a kind. They fall into a Marlin 1894 following that is hard to explain, you either have the bug or you don't.
The prices of most new rifles these days are skyrocketing overall. I love the new Winchester Trappers, but they will run you well over $2000.00 for even a close model to the 1894 SBL or 1894 CSBL, only blued models though. Chiappa has a few nice Trapper versions as well, but they are also not cheap to buy and I had a real bad experience with Chiappa and swore I will never own another ( nothing against current Chiappa owners ).
It comes down to personal preference and taste. I like the Henry Steel Carbine Models but they don't have a 16 1/2" Stainless Carbine/Trapper model, again blued models only. Plus I would miss the side gate loading option, tube feed only with a Henry. I have two Henry 22s, love them both.
So after $1300.00 we as owners spend 4-5 hours polishing the internals and taking off the sharp edges. Throw in a Wolf Hammer Spring and you have a reliable buttery-smooth action while tickling our Marlin cult following.
Now in saying all this, most Marlins will shoot, cycle and fire just fine without all the extra time, parts, etc., some of us put into the rifle. Again, it comes back to choice and how fussy is the individual.
Merry Christmas to all!.....
