The SAAMI bore spec is big in reality requiring .380" and mostly bigger cast bullets, but the problem with pre-Marlin made barrels(<2007) was the chamber necks weren't big enough to chamber a bullet big enough to shoot accurately. That can be readily fixed by reaming the chamber neck with a ~.400 neck reamer. Marlin solved the problem in 2007, but then promptly discontinued it for 2008!
Several members here have 2007 barrels that shoot very well right out of the box, mine shoots 220gr .379" jacketed exceptionally and 325gr .380" cast bullets great.
Tim