Marlin 336 Cowboy

[RWH24]

I am looking at a Marlin 336 Cowboy in 38-55. Anybody have an opinion on this gun/calibre? Or the H/R 38-55?? Thanks.
Randy
 

[Graybeard]

I've read in magazine reviews of them the barrel is somewhat oversize at about .379" and that unless you can get cast bullets sized to .379" or .380" they don't shoot very well. But the articles said jacketed shot fine. Dunno if this is true or still true or what.

Sure wish I'd gotten one in place of the 1895 Cowboy I got. My right shoulder has bursitus so bad it don't look like I'm gonna be able to shoot it. Doc gave me a shot and some medication but it ain't coming around. Fired my LW .243 with 90 BTs just once the other day on a bare shoulder and it hurt. But with the PAST pad the R700 LSS Mtn. Rifle in 7-08 was OK.  I fired that 1895 Cowboy only six times and my shoulder hurt so bad for two weeks I could barely even sleep for the pain.  :cry:

GB

[dpe.ahoy]

Got one in 38-55 and like it.  Shoots the factory Win. loads well and they are way to mild.    Put some .379 Cast GC's over IMR 3031 and they shot well also.  Impact was alot lower though.  I'd be real happy if I could get my 38-55 Handi Target to do half as well.     Just got it though and haven't had time to work up loads for it.  Snowing like crazy right now and a couple of days ago it was upper 70's.  'Course I was working that day!   Oh well, only in Montana!   DP.