Thoughts on Marlin model 80

[Game_Stalker]

I have an opportunity to pick up a Marlin model 80 for pretty cheap. It's a nice looking little bolt rifle with a tube mag like the model 60. Searching the web I'm not having much luck finding opinions on this little shooter. The guy's holding the rifle till Saturday, so I'd like to hear what folks have to say about it.

So, anybody have and/or shoot one of these?

[dpastordan]

I have the target version of it - called the Squirrel rifle.  It is a great shooter.  Mine is clip fed.  Had it since Marlin came out with it.  All but one squirrel were one shot kills. 

[ohio_boy]

If it is a tube fed, it will be a model 81, instead of the 80.  I have both, the 80 is a great rifle, smaller than the 81, and clip fed.  My model 81 is a good rifle too, bought mine used for $100 a year and a half ago.  It has a longer barrel, and has the stock peep sights with it.  Nice for target, but a little long, and heavy for hunting.

[bilmac]

I like mine.

[Redford Bohica]

My Marlin 80 is one that I inherited from my step-dad when he passed away 12 years ago. This one has a set of Marbles open sights that were installed by a local gunsmith back in the early 60's, and was also drilled and tapped by the same 'smith to take the old Weaver N-2 side mount. Off the bench, it will easily put 5 shots into the size of a nickel all day long using those Marbles open sights. It shoots so well with the open sights that I refuse to put a scope on it!  One thing I've learned over almost 6 decades is.......if it ain't broke, don't break it!
 

Red

[DavidABQ]

I have my Pop's Model 80 which means a lot to me since it was both my Pop's and the rifle I learned to shoot on.

[Gene R]

They are nice accurate rifles, I couldn't see you not being happy with it.

[gcrank1]

+1 that!
Most of the old .22s Ive played with, given even reasonable care, shoot better than most people can hold. The trigger is already 'broke in' but the works may need a flush and lube (who knows when that was last done!). If the trigger is too heavy for you after that, put some mechanics 'anti-sieze' compound on the contact sufaces (after wiping them dry of oil). Slick, no cost trigger job.