My father-in-law gave me a 1984 model Marlin 30AS 30-30 about 2 years ago. It had been sitting a while and had not been maintained very well. It had an older 3-9x40 Tasco on see-thru weaver rings. I cleaned it and shot it a few times and had average results. 2 inch groups @ 50 yards. Not the best, but it would take a deer. I went deer hunting with it last year and shot at and missed 2 deer. These were 50-60 yard shots. I was very disappointed. I bought a Handi-Rifle in 270 Win this year. I made a double lung shot @ 150 yards with a 4x32 scope. I was pleased with myself and the Handi. Anyway, I'm determined to get the 30AS shooting right. I put a 4x32 on it with a weaver style base and rings. I tore the gun down and cleaned it VERY well. The bore was very dirty but it's clean now. The crown looks good too. I am aware of the barrel band tension issue and have just snugged them for now. I've noticed the 170gr Federal Power-Shoks work well, compared to the 150gr. I have a box of the Hornady LeverEvolution cartridges, but have not shot any yet. I'm heading to the range this week to see how much improvement I've made.
Any tips on accurizing the Marlin 30AS are much appreciated. What kind of accuracy should I expect of this rifle? There's something about a lever gun that I love. I'd like to use the Marlin and the default go to gun for whatever. But I need to know its limitations.
Thanks in advance.