Newest Marlin 336W Rifles - How's the Quality?

Lonesome Donkey

Lonesome Donkey

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Recently, I've been reading that Marlin lever guns have been improving significantly and became intrigued with the
plain-Jane 336W with the birch stock.

I already own a vintage 1969 almost-unused 336C made in 1969, which I will never sell, but I have always wanted to pick up an older used Glenfield in .30-30.

The 336W is a modern-day Glenfield, except with standard sights and a matte finish, which may or may not be bluing.
These seem to be very popular because of their price, (less than $600.00 CAN) although a 336C is only about a $120.00 or so more.

Still, over $400.00 cheaper than a Henry .30-30.

So, what is your experience with your 336W Marlins purchased in the last year or two?
Does yours have a laminate birch stock or a stained solid birch stock?

How is the:
Wood to metal Fit?
Metal work?
Quality overall?
 
I recently picked up a 336 compact y and a 336 bl. I know they aren't 336 Ws but they are Remlins. Fit and finish on both are good. They both have laminated stocks. The compact y has the matte finish and I don't personally care for it but there is nothing wrong with it. Both function well with factory loads and my reloads.I 've replaced the front sights with fibre optcs and Williams peep sights as I can 't see the factory sights. Overall I'm happy with both guns and hope to take a deer with one of them this fall. Hope this helps. Bac4
 
If you got to the Marlin forums they have lots of information. It appears that many are pleased with the Marlins now coming out of Ilion. Others have reported problems still.

www.marlinowners.com

I can't comment on the new ones as my last one was a New Haven 1894c.
 
Jabotinsky said:
If you got to the Marlin forums they have lots of information. It appears that many are pleased with the Marlins now coming out of Ilion. Others have reported problems still.

www.marlinowners.com

I can't comment on the new ones as my last one was a New Haven 1894c.
Click to expand...

Thanks for your reply. I have looked at the Marlin Owners Forum, as well as some recent You-Tube videos.
But, I thought that I would get some first hand feedback.
Generally, opinions are favorable.
However, I did run across comments that Remington may not be hardening the carriers, leading to wear and failure after several hundred rounds.
If so, possibly they figure that the average hunter/shooter will never shoot it enough to discover this, until 10 or more years have passed for most users. (And by then, they may not even be making Marlins anymore.)
 
There are internet reports things might be getting better. I have my doubts. I wouldn't buy one without a detailed inspection. Reports include front sights crooked, actions that are rough, poor wood to metal fit, and cuttings in the action. I would look for a nice JM stamped rifle myself.
 
Canuck Bob said:
There are internet reports things might be getting better. I have my doubts. I wouldn't buy one without a detailed inspection. Reports include front sights crooked, actions that are rough, poor wood to metal fit, and cuttings in the action. I would look for a nice JM stamped rifle myself.
Click to expand...

Yes. I'm leaning towards looking for an old Glenfield at a gun show, and giving the new 336W a pass.

I know that they have light-colored birch stocks and cheesy impressed checkering, with a cheesy deer head.
I know that they have a stamped old-school .22 rifle rear sight and elevator.
I know that the front bead sight is dovetailed directly in like old-school lever guns, with no ramp.
But, I find that simplicity appealing.
They are good solid rifles.
And they are as solid and well-made as the walnut-stocked rifles.
 
Lonesome Donkey said:
Thanks for your reply. I have looked at the Marlin Owners Forum, as well as some recent You-Tube videos.
But, I thought that I would get some first hand feedback.
Generally, opinions are favorable.
However, I did run across comments that Remington may not be hardening the carriers, leading to wear and failure after several hundred rounds.
If so, possibly they figure that the average hunter/shooter will never shoot it enough to discover this, until 10 or more years have passed for most users. (And by then, they may not even be making Marlins anymore.)
Click to expand...

Yes I have heard that as well which is not a good sign. I know that Ranger Point precision picked up on it, they won't use them as a base anymore for their own models.

You could try looking for a JM stamped rifle or I would take a look at Winchesters made by Miroku in Japan. They are first class and the fit and finish shows real craftsmanship. They are off heirloom quality in my opinion.

I made the mistake off getting rid of my 1894c regret it to this day.

Whatever you decide good luck and let us know how you get on.
 
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