I've got that model, though it's about 15 years old. Only difference is the checkering--mine doesn't have it.
The "C" is pretty much what a Marlin is. Some have longer barrels, or round vs. octagon barrels but when you get down to it, it's a Marlin. Marlins slings the empty brass out to the side while the Winchester clones send them straight up. My brother's hat has a bunch of stains from all the brass that hits his hat--shows character he says.
I like mine (2) and I like my 1860 Henry, too. The Marlin can be slicked up a bit easier than the 66 or 73 but bottom line: what does it for you?
The 38/357 ammo is cheaper and has less recoil. The price is pretty good too. Might want to look at gunbroker.com to see what they are getting for similar ones as well as the 66s and 73s.
From your post I think you may want to look around some more. All these long guns will last a good long time so don't buy something just because it's a good price. You can always get it and use it till you find the "perfect rifle" and then use it as a back-up but this hobby/sport/insanity :grin: is expensive enough without buying the wrong gun up front.
Bottom line: l like my Marlins and use them as my main match rifles but my brother loves his 66; so be sure it's one you like before ponying up your hard earned cash.
Let us know how it goes....
ÇR
