Good fix for an old 47-70???

[James B]

I have a 70's vintage Marlin straight stocked 1895. It had been scratching the brass real bad. After 10-15 shots the brass fileings would start to gum up the works. I took it to a gunsmith who changed the loading gate and that helped. He said however that the inside of the frame across from the loading gate showed pretty bad wear. He said he could build it up then polish it down smooth but that would require reblueing the gun. First question. Has anyone else seen this happen? second question is that the best or only fix? third question. Would Marlin do that sort of work and any estimate on the cost? Last question if that is the case do you think the gun is worth it? Would you replace it instead if it were your gun? I like the old model without the safe button on the side. Appreciate any input anyone has.

[marlinman93]

Can't say if Marlin would do the necessary repairs needed to make your gun right. You should give them a call.
 As for scratching the brass, there are many reasons for this. It could be the inside of the receiver, where the loading gate rests against which might have a rough or sharp edge. This could be rounded, without hurting the bluing. Also could be the opening to the chamber, which also could be polished to help. Check the magazine tube too. If it's sharp on the edges where it enters the receiver, it will scrape the brass when loading the magazine.
 I'd surely keep the gun if possible. A good gunsmith should be able to round and polish all the above mentioned areas for a very small fe. I've done all the above things to Marlins with similar problems, and I can tell you it takes less than an hour to completely smooth up the internals.
 Hope this helps.