Go for it! I picked up a Marlin in .35 rem last year. I was an old one with little finish left, 3/4 mag tube, and a 24" bbl. I sent it down to my friend Ken Kelly at Mag-na-port and asked him to cut it down for me. He shortened it to 19", ported it, put a fire sight on the front and an AO rear. Also a scout mount (I still haven't gotten around to putting a scope on it) and a nice satin finish blue. I absolutely love it! It is one sweet shooting rifle. Very little muzzle blast and wonderful handling. Make it the way you want it, take it out and enjoy it. 44 Man