lostsniper308,
Are you sure it HAD a stud? My present (1976) Marlin 336 only has a stud on the barrel band because I saw one on a new rifle and ordered the barrel band from Marlin.
RAscal,
The Marlin isn't a long range varmint proposition, so I am not sure why one would want to put a bipod on one. I prefer mine clean when I am stomping in the woods. I even take the sling off and stick it in my pack so it doesn't hang up in the brush. A pair of shooting sticks might be useful if a tree isn't available to brace the rifle against, but again, that is extra "stuff" to carry & get in the way.
My opinion on what works for me. Putting a bipod on yours might be just the cat's meaow for your situation. The only way to find out is to try it!
-WH-