Just picked up my 1894 from Big 5 (Pics)

[KenSel]

I'm pretty happy with the gun so far.  The action is much smoother than I expected.  And now that I've handled it a little I'm actually glad it doesn't have the slimmer forend and checkering in the wood.  The forend feels just like my 1895 without the checkering.  I am curious though; why do the 1894's at Big 5 have the stock like the one on mine instead of the normal factory stock?  Also the stock doesn't have the little Marlin bullseye that's found on all of their walnut stocks so I'm wandering what kind of wood it is. 

Now just need to add a scope and work up some loads.

Ken

[Ranger J]

I hope you like your new rifle.  Mine is a little picky about what it will shoot accurately.  If yours doesn't like factory size bullets try some Hornady XTLs over a heavy load of H110 or 2400.  Mine likes the lighter weight bullets best.  It will shoot 180 gr in a ragged hole at 50 yards.  240 grs are almost as good but 300 gr is all over the place.  It could be because of the 1 in 30 twist of the barrel.

RJ

[Old Grizz]

Ken, You may have a birch stock instead of a walnut stock. Marlin doesn't use the bullseye unless the wood is walnut. Is this a new rifle or used? They are a pretty smooth cycling gun. another question, What is Big 5? Never heard of them. Glad you like your new Marlin. I own a number of them and wouldn't even think about trading them in.