Author Topic: Marlin Firearms Survey (Read 8652 times)

1x2 · « **Reply #30 on:** June 08, 2005, 07:19:36 PM »

I am taking you at your word- as such, I consider the possibility of your reading this to be a treat.

I've owned 8 Marlins- I own none now. My son has my Marlin 39A, which is the only truly accurate Marlin rifle I've ever purchased, and as accurate as any rifle I've ever shot. But then, as a competition shooter I know has said many times, "how hard is it to get a .22 to shoot well?" Apparently not very hard, as I've owned several Winchester 9422s and a Browning/Mirokou '85 low-wall that shot just as well. On the other hand, I owned one of your 1897 octagonal-barreled .22s which was fabulously disappointing, as the company failed to fix (read replace) the firing pin the three chances they had. Imagine, I returned it twice- to no satisfactory outcome. (The pin was "warped" and dragged on the side of the pin channel and on the top retaining stud, thus scrubbing off energy needed to ignite the primer).

As a preamble to the following, please consider that much of the market (I surmise) for these rifles emanates from CAS members or "sympathizers" of the genre, and for multiple other reasons, including simplicity of reloading, lack of interest and/or funds to "support" multiple chamberings, nostalgia, and the simple knowledge that one of these chamberings "should" prove adequate for multiple activities, including hunting, notwithstanding the knowledge that each chambering and rifle configuration is inherently a compromise among features and functions.

With respect to your 1894 "cowboy-style" rifles chambered for revolver cartridges in .357 mag., .44 mag., and 45 colt, of which I would be otherwise inordinately fond:

Marlin's octagonal barrels are too thin-walled-they're "whippy". This translates to random vibration and inaccuracy.

Marlin ceased welding an "inverse" cartridge guide ramp to the inside roof of the receiver just rear of the breech. This guide assisted with changing the angle of the nose of the round which was being fed from a near-45 degree carry to a horizontal carry on the carrier as the bolt pushed it forward. Elimination of this guide promoted dysfunctional feeding, especially of RNFP and SWC rounds.

The bores are horribly unfinished, and at bare minimum need lapping, or "fire lapping" as the aftermarket, which has grown up around it, uses the term, instead of just sealing the bore.

The .44 mag SAAMI spec change from ~.429" to .431" has left the shooter little choice to produce accuracy, save from shooting jacketed bullets. It is my contention that a large segment of the market for these rifles WANTS to shoot lead bullets, and is disappointed with results, as lead shooters are hard-pressed to find .432" bullets. The .44mag. bores I've owned generally slugged .4305", which is fine as compared to SAAMI specs, but the bullet market is not with you. This becomes your problem.

The .44 mag. twist rate of 1:38 is inadequate for modern-day accurate shooting. A rate of 1:16 - 1:20 would not hurt the accuracy of lighter 240gr. bullets, yet would greatly assist the accuracy of 300 grain and heavier bullets.

My latest inquiry into purchasing a new Marlin 1894 Cowboy with the 20" octagonal barrel resulted in quotes of approximately $600. If I were to spend $600 on A RIFLE, I could easily buy many other (albeit non-lever guns) which produce FINE accuracy consistently among units for this price or less. Additionally, other leverguns costing 75% or less of that $600 (most notably Rossi's) are AT LEAST as accurate, and have proven to be fine performers over time.

It seems every model incorporates a different size butt-plate. This is quite annoying as the hard plastic butt-plates are very slick, need changing for many shooters, but aftermarket purchases are more of a "gamble" than should be necessary and invariably require "fitting". If the company insists on retaining the hard plastic plate for cost-savings of manufacture, at least standardize the plates and offer a recoil-absorbing replacement, easily purchased from the factory and requiring no fitting.

Given the labor and materials cost differentials between origins of manufacture, I can suggest that you try to hold fast on current quality as respects fit and finish, and concentrate on improving functional reliability. "The most interesting rifles, are accurate rifles."

So, what's to like about Marlins?

They're made in America.
Your customer service has proven helpful and supportive over time; they make every attempt to satisfy the customer, in my experience.
The 1894s are side eject (I particularly like this design feature).
They are sturdy rifles.
They are visually pleasing.
The fit and finish is quite acceptable on a unit-to-unit basis.
They DON'T have crescent butt plates (I should almost be kidding about this- but please don't start).
The sights are "reasonable" (though not exotic) for the price.
Simple removal of the bolt for easy cleaning through the breech is very appealing.

Thank you for asking.

Best wishes for the company's future success,

1x2

marlinman93 · « **Reply #31 on:** June 08, 2005, 07:25:09 PM »

Quote from: DIANAL

Hello Marlin Owners!

Thank you for inviting me to participate on your forum; thanks to Mac for his invitation and kind words!

My name is Diana Lynch and I am married to Theodore Lynch, the grandson of Theodore F. Lynch, who in the earlier years was chairman of Marlin Firearms. We are among a small group of owners of the privately held Marlin Firearms Company. I am compiling data regarding Marlin and H&R customer feedback on both existing products and ideas for new products and accessories. Although I have been to a number of Marlin Firearms company meetings, I am new to the gun business; however, I am going to immerse myself into learning everything I can about the gun business. I am gathering this information from a number of different sources and I am hoping that your forum with its diverse members will contribute! Please understand that my level of commitment is real and determined. My background and professional career has been in aerospace; before that, I played professional tennis and was a national and world champion squash player. I mention this only as examples of my determination and passion, always giving each endeavor my absolute best effort. I am confident that with your input, both companies will become even more successful and achieve even greater customer satisfaction. Thank you in advance for your assistance and I look forward to your insightful comments.

Diana Lynch
You never know where the next great idea will come from.

Survey Questions

Are you a recent or long-term Marlin owner?

What were the main reasons that you chose to buy the Marlin product over another competitor?

What specifically about the Marlin products do you like or not like?

What types of products do you wish Marlin made?

Are there any accessories, if offered by Marlin, that you would purchase?

If you were offered to purchase a share or shares of the company, would you?

I am both a long time, and old time Marlin owner, with about 5 dozen of them presently in my collection. Been collecting them for over 20 years.
Main reason for choosing Marlins was relaibility, and simplicity, of the Hepburn design.
I wish Marlin made the Ballard single shot, and I wish they would bring back the full sized model 1895, instead of a 336 in .45-70 called a model 1895.
I'd rather see a Marlin custom shop, than a list of accessories!
If shares of Marlin stock were offered, I would certainly consider purchasing them.

Winter Hawk · « **Reply #32 on:** June 09, 2005, 08:00:41 AM »

Good morning, Dianne. I have owned Marlins off and on since 1964 when I bought a model 57 (I think) .22. A dandy rifle! To answer your questions:

Are you a recent or long-term Marlin owner?

Fairly long term, see above.

What were the main reasons that you chose to buy the Marlin product over another competitor?

Reasonable price, quality, and good engineering.

What specifically about the Marlin products do you like or not like?

I like the simplicity of the 336. I firmly believe in the K.I.S.S. principal. The side eject so a scope can be mounted over the bore, and the strength of the design have always been attractive to me. I really like being able to remove one screw, take out the lever and pull the breech bolt for cleaning the bore.

What types of products do you wish Marlin made?

My "high power" rifles are a model 88 Winchester in .308 and a Marlin 336 in .30-30. I would love to see Marlin build a modified 336 with a box or clip magazine to handle the .308 and its derivatives (.243, 7mm08, .358). I don't know if the present action will withstand the thrust on the bolt, and a rotating bolt head with lugs to lock into the barrel would be a real plus.

Are there any accessories, if offered by Marlin, that you would purchase?

Can't think of any.

If you were offered to purchase a share or shares of the company, would you?

I doubt it.

Thank you for the opportunity to respond. You should do this over on the NEF/H&R forum!

-Winter Hawk-

MI-shooter · « **Reply #33 on:** June 09, 2005, 02:17:04 PM »

Thanks for the chance to voice my comments.

Are you a recent or long-term Marlin owner?
Less than 5 years

What were the main reasons that you chose to buy the Marlin product over another competitor?
I enjoy lever actions and other than some high priced recreations, Marlin makes the widest selection of pistol caliber rifles. Being all steel/walnut is a major plus. Made in the USA is another big plus.

What specifically about the Marlin products do you like or not like?
See above comment for pluses. Minuses are fit/finish/attention to detail. Also, manufacture and distribute the product on time. I just got my 1894CB32 last week after having ordered it 18 months ago after seeing your advertisement. After getting it I have the following comments. Mag tube half out of dovetail on the barrel, chamber edge was sharp and impared function, poorly fit stock, cheap rear sight, rear sight raised to highest level to shoot point of aim at 25yds, buttplate looked like it was out of a worn out mould. I don't like waiting but I do, I also don't mind paying good money for a good value.

What types of products do you wish Marlin made?
Ballard single shot ( or another type non hinge action ) in rimfire and centerfire.

Are there any accessories, if offered by Marlin, that you would purchase?
Factory installed tang sights

If you were offered to purchase a share or shares of the company, would you?
If the value was good, yes.

Good luck! Marlin makes excellent lever actions, just need to improve quality.

Little Magnum · « **Reply #34 on:** June 12, 2005, 05:59:58 PM »

Have a 1894P in 44mag, love it !... shoot mostly cast bullets out of it and a 17V

I want marlin to produce a 375 JdJ lever gun....It's a a no brainer, factory
shells now available, lets bring the gun out !

coyote trapper1928 · « **Reply #35 on:** June 22, 2005, 05:07:07 PM »

Hi:

What I would like to see is Marlin bring back the Marlin 120 shotgun. I don't know why that was dropped. I think that if it was brought back, it would sell very well. I also would like to see it in gauges other than a 12 gauge.

hipshot300 · « **Reply #36 on:** June 29, 2005, 07:11:48 PM »

Are you a recent or long-term Marlin owner?
35 remington is a favorite

What were the main reasons that you chose to buy the Marlin product over another competitor?
ease of scope mounting, side ejection

What specifically about the Marlin products do you like or not like?
the stocks on the new models are bulky and could stand to be trimed/thinned down

What types of products do you wish Marlin made?
an adult and youth model in 25-35 winchester, bring back the 22 mountie

Are there any accessories, if offered by Marlin, that you would purchase?
no

If you were offered to purchase a share or shares of the company, would you?
n/a

Lurker · « **Reply #37 on:** July 01, 2005, 04:54:00 PM »

Quote from: DIANAL

Hello Marlin Owners!

Thank you for inviting me to participate on your forum; thanks to Mac for his invitation and kind words!

My name is Diana Lynch and I am married to Theodore Lynch, the grandson of Theodore F. Lynch, who in the earlier years was chairman of Marlin Firearms. We are among a small group of owners of the privately held Marlin Firearms Company. I am compiling data regarding Marlin and H&R customer feedback on both existing products and ideas for new products and accessories. Although I have been to a number of Marlin Firearms company meetings, I am new to the gun business; however, I am going to immerse myself into learning everything I can about the gun business. I am gathering this information from a number of different sources and I am hoping that your forum with its diverse members will contribute! Please understand that my level of commitment is real and determined. My background and professional career has been in aerospace; before that, I played professional tennis and was a national and world champion squash player. I mention this only as examples of my determination and passion, always giving each endeavor my absolute best effort. I am confident that with your input, both companies will become even more successful and achieve even greater customer satisfaction. Thank you in advance for your assistance and I look forward to your insightful comments.

Diana Lynch
You never know where the next great idea will come from.

Survey Questions

Are you a recent or long-term Marlin owner?

A long time owner ... over 50 years ... i have about 35 Marlin rifles. I'm a shooter, not a collector!

What were the main reasons that you chose to buy the Marlin product over another competitor?

Initially, I liked the solid top rerceiver. However, I came to like the Marlin rifles because of their apparent quality, and accuracy.

Marlin apparently will change barrels and stocks to different configurations from the original. I REALLY LIKE THAT!

About the Marlin products What specifically do you like or not like?

I dislike Marlin for discontinuing, the drilling and tapping the left side of the action for receiver sights. I REALLY DISLIKE THAT ...

What types of products do you wish Marlin made?

I wish Marlin would reintroduce the 39M again ...

Are there any accessories, if offered by Marlin, that you would purchase?

Knives, quality memorablia, Marlin marked cartridges, in all calibers, things of this nature.

If you were offered to purchase a share or shares of the company, would you?

Probably. Would shareholders get to give input? If shareholders give input, and Marlin disagrees, would Marlin explain why?

Bill

choppa · « **Reply #38 on:** July 02, 2005, 05:36:59 PM »

Survey Questions

Are you a recent or long-term Marlin owner?

My first rifle was a Marlin 336 in 30/30, I bought here in Australia when I was 18 (legal age to own a firearm) that was in 1992 since then I have aquired another 3 marlins, 1895M,1894CS and an 1894SS.

What were the main reasons that you chose to buy the Marlin product over another competitor?

Build quality compared to competitors, accuracy(for a levergun) visual appeal, ease of handling due to overall length, speed of quick follow up shots(semi-autos not available) and quicker than a bolt gun.

What specifically about the Marlin products do you like or not like?

I like the pricing, availabiltity, build quality, functioning, back up service.

I dont like the the recoil pad on the larger 1895's and the short magazine tubes on the guide guns. And lack of synthetic/laminate stocks for all models. A lot of people poo poo the crossbolt safety, I reckon they are a good idea for teaching new shooters and unloading safety

What types of products do you wish Marlin made?

A 1894 stainless with a 16" round/octagonal barrel, synthetic/laminate stock with ghost ring sights as standard, guide gun in the same configuration, with purpose built carry case and takedown capability.
A new design to handle higher intensity cartridges, maybe with a box magazine similar to an 1895 winchester/BLR browning.
A lever action 12ga shotgun.

Are there any accessories, if offered by Marlin, that you would purchase?

Synthetic/laminate stocks for all model's, purpose built carry cases.

If you were offered to purchase a share or shares of the company, would you?

Yes I would.

Thanks for your interest

Hooker · « **Reply #39 on:** July 04, 2005, 07:36:08 AM »

Are you a recent or long-term Marlin owner?

I've been a Marlin owner for 30+ years

What were the main reasons that you chose to buy the Marlin product over another competitor?

What can I say? Marlin makes the finest lever action rifles and their .22 bolt actions are among the best.

What specifically about the Marlin products do you like or not like?

I like the looks, strength and accuracy of Marlin firearms.

What types of products do you wish Marlin made?

I only have one request. That they would make a .22 bolt action with a clip magazine that is flush with the bottom of the stock.
Having the magazine stick out as they do IMO ruins the looks of and other wise beautiful firearm. And gets in the way when shooting from the bench.

Are there any accessories, if offered by Marlin, that you would purchase?

How about a really stylish Butt Cuff with cartridge loops for your lever guns?

If you were offered to purchase a share or shares of the company, would you?

Yes I do believe I would.

Pat

lostsniper308 · « **Reply #40 on:** July 05, 2005, 06:13:34 AM »

I tend to avoid surveys but hey its for a rifle

Are you a recent or long-term Marlin owner?-

Not yet i just have a Marlin 30AW .30-30Win

What were the main reasons that you chose to buy the Marlin product over another competitor?- the offered price was astounding to even

Win94s

What specifically about the Marlin products do you like or not like?

One piece reciever, scope mounting ease

What types of products do you wish Marlin made?

a ghost ring rear sight and matching front sight

Are there any accessories, if offered by Marlin, that you would purchase?

Scout scope mount

If you were offered to purchase a share or shares of the company, would you?

Theres no way for me to at this point

Leverdude · « **Reply #41 on:** July 05, 2005, 11:28:13 AM »

Survey Questions

Quote

Are you a recent or long-term Marlin owner?

Long term. My second new gun purchase was a Marlin & I bought a bunch more thru the years.

Quote

What were the main reasons that you chose to buy the Marlin product over another competitor?

The first was a financial decision. I bought a model 60 rimfire because it looked like a good gun for the money.
The second & most important was a used 336 purchase, I had a Win 94 at the time & once I realized the simplicity & ruggedness of the Marlin VS the Win I was sold.

Quote

What specifically about the Marlin products do you like or not like?

Not much I dont like but I'd like to see more configurations as far as stock design & reciever finishes. My latest centerfire rifle buy was a Rossi almost solely because I could get a gun much closer to what I desired than Marlin offers. I like the Marlin action much better but going with the Rossi I got a new gun with case hardened reciever & oct BBL in the chambering of my choice & a straight grip stock.

Quote

What types of products do you wish Marlin made?

A more diverse lever action lineup. & an ocasional run on the originals such as a long action 1895 or a modern 1881.

Quote

Are there any accessories, if offered by Marlin, that you would purchase?

Sights come to mind. I think they oughtta start tapping the reciever sides again & offer a line of reciever sights & different height front sights.

Quote

If you were offered to purchase a share or shares of the company, would you?

You bet your sweet patootie I would. :grin:

Ringo Steele · « **Reply #42 on:** July 06, 2005, 08:33:19 AM »

Hi Ms. Lynch,
Thanks for your concern for your customers!

I just wanted to reinterate the need for the 1894C 357 to be able to hold 10 shots for cowboy action shooting, and the need for all firearms to function smoothly and reliably out-of-the-box. Take care of that sharp edge on the lever cam so it won't eat into the carrier and cause jamming. These rifles tune beautifully!

And above all, please keep the manufacture of your firearms in the U.S.A.!
(MAJOR selling point here!) (Some REAL L.C. Smith design side-by-side shotguns would be great, too :wink: )

Thanks for askin' !

azmike · « **Reply #43 on:** July 06, 2005, 01:24:29 PM »

Survey Questions

Are you a recent or long-term Marlin owner?
Recent. I just bought my first Marlin, a 336 in .35 Remington.

What were the main reasons that you chose to buy the Marlin product over another competitor?
Value for the dollar, excellent handling for hunting in brush.

What specifically about the Marlin products do you like or not like?
The wood appears of very high quality on all the Marlins I have seen. Not a fan of the crossbolt safety. Overall quality seems above average, in comparison to the other brands in my safe.

What types of products do you wish Marlin made?
I think adding a line of centerfire pump action rifles to compete with Remington would be nice. Not a huge market I understand, but I think they would still sell.

Are there any accessories, if offered by Marlin, that you would purchase?
I am unfamiliar with the accessories currently offered.

If you were offered to purchase a share or shares of the company, would you?[/quote]
I would, but as I understand Marlin is a family owned business, I would be more supportive if it stayed that way.

crash87 · « **Reply #44 on:** July 23, 2005, 04:48:18 AM »

I Have owned Marlin Firearms now for about 20 years, A 1894 in.357, a 336SC in .35 Rem., and a 1895 45/70. It was just recently purchased, after looking for about 10 years. Why so long looking? Simple, if you'll notice they all are pre-receiver safety. I just don't like 'em. Winchester did away with it quite nicley with the tang safety. Don't know if Marlin has any ideas but if you were to look at the products out there to replace or do away with them altogether you'll see an interest in doing away with it. I must say when I look at a used rack and see a Marlin the first thing I do is look for the "Safety" if its there I move on.
One other thing, Different calibers are nice and my favorites are no different than the other posts. But when you put something in your catalog, on the web site, or introduce it through some publication etc. Make it available within a reasonable amount of time!
Having to wait or be put on a list to wait for a one or two more catalogs to be printed is just plain B.S. I've seen this plenty with Ruger, the solution has usually been to get something else in place of it. Which of course means that the gun you really wanted is never bought. I sometimes wonder if guns are dropped from product lines for lack of sales, or they just took so long to become available, we either got something else or just forgot about them.
A custom shop would be nice. A word of warning, though. Just make sure its up and running and its big enough. Theres no way to predict the influx of customers guns that will pouring in. I will bet money though, that you get behind and stay there, for quite sometime. I'm just hoping I can get mine there first.
Thank You,
CRASH87

gcf · « **Reply #45 on:** August 01, 2005, 11:48:52 AM »

Quote from: DIANAL

... What types of products do you wish Marlin made?

An un-ported 444 Guide Gun (straight stock / Ballard cut rifling / quality recoil pad / & quality receiver sight), would push me right over the edge.....

Majbg · « **Reply #46 on:** August 04, 2005, 11:07:49 AM »

Long time and new buyer. I have 3.. 2 Lever, 1 Bolt. Love them all. Ditto to what everyone else has said, esp about bring out a 356. I have a Win 94 in 7-30 Waters that pales in comparison to the 336's, but I love the cartridge and Marlin doesn't offer it either. Thanks for your interest. bg

GoBang · « **Reply #47 on:** August 08, 2005, 12:54:36 PM »

Hello all, I've been lurking on this board for quite awhile and never really felt compelled to join til I saw this thread. I have owned Marlin firearms for thirty years. The majority of these guns have been fine-quality rifles, but more than a few have had real quality control issues, such as chronic jamming and shoddy assembly. If I had one thing to say to Marlin it would be to make a greater effort to ensure every firearm that leaves their plant is of the highest quality. Thank you.

Ted Kramer · « **Reply #48 on:** August 10, 2005, 04:05:33 PM »

I have two Marlin lever guns. An early 39A and an 1893 in .38-55. Both are well made rifles and cycle w/o problems. The old '93 doesn't like the short 38-55 brass but really shoots fine with the original length cases. Triggers are great on both.
Thanks for taking time to inquire on this forum.
Ted Kramer

fnbrowning · « **Reply #49 on:** August 14, 2005, 05:23:22 PM »

Survey Questions

Are you a recent or long-term Marlin owner?

Long term
----------------------------
What were the main reasons that you chose to buy the Marlin product over another competitor?

I buy Marlin lever actions only. In the regard, Marlin makes a lever action that is less complicated, easier to dissemble for routine cleaning, and features a side eject.
-------------------------------

What specifically about the Marlin products do you like or not like

I have called Marlin repair to inquire about gunsmithing services. I do not like the time I would have to wait for a Marlin to receive gunsmithing services. For instance, the time quoted to be for a bluing job was too long to consider. Drop the MicoGroove rifling. Redouble efforts to maintain tightest tolerances on barrel manufacturing, and general fit & finish of the product. Bring back the Marlintalk forums. Sure, it needs constant monitoring. Yes, there will be criticism voiced publically. But a company forum provides a "we care" place for the company to connect with the public.
--------------------------------

What types of products do you wish Marlin made?

No opinion
--------------------------------

Are there any accessories, if offered by Marlin, that you would purchase?

Big loop finger levers.
--------------------------------

If you were offered to purchase a share or shares of the company, would you?

I think that going public would expose the Marlin Company to criticism from shareholders that do not own firearms or respect the Second Amendment.
Anti-gun organizations could buy large blocks of stock and then make demands. . . . . . .

Paul Barnard · « **Reply #50 on:** August 15, 2005, 03:48:49 AM »

Diana:

Here we are about 3 months after your initial post and the readership has not heard back from you.

In retrospect your comments about your steely determination are coming off as self serving now. Not determined enough to provide a little follow up? Not detemined enough to post a thank you?

It's easy to get something started, but follow up is what will make or break you.

Perhaps you should get back into tennis. Us hunters and shooters can be a very demanding bunch.

Paul Barnard

Teton Kid · « **Reply #51 on:** August 21, 2005, 11:13:55 AM »

Diana,

I just couldn't let that last post be the last word on this subject. I appreciate it very much that you have taken the time to ask us what we like about Marlin Firearms. I read over this whole thread and I think there is some good information in here for you. Let me answer your questions myself.

I bought my first centerfire rifle in 1985. It is a Marlin 336C-35REM. I really liked the way that it looked and felt in my hands. I put a Leupold VII 1-4 variable scope on it. I handloaded that 35REM cartridge very carefully and discovered that it liked the Speer 220 bullet and Hodgon 4895 powder. I shot my one and only elk with that rifle. I will never sell it.

This is the list of Marlin Firearms that I own now. I don't consider myself a collector because all of them are in working order and I shoot all of them. I don't think collectors shoot their collection.

Marlin-Ballard 30" Pacific #5 .40-63 Ballard
1881 Marlin 28" Rifle .40-60 Marlin
1887 Marlin Double Action Revolver 38 S&W
1889 Marlin 24" Rifle .38-40
1893 Marlin 26" Rifle .38-55
1894 Marlin 24" Rifle .38-40
36 ADL Marlin 24" Rifle .30-30
336C Marlin 20" Carbine .35REM (the Elk Killer)
L C Smith SxS Hammer Shotguns, 20" & 30" 12GA

I also have an H&R single shot 20" rifle in .223REM, and a 1894C Marlin 18.5" Carbine in .357/38SPL. I had a late-model 1894 Cowboy 20" Rifle in .45LC, but I sold it to buy the original 1894 in .38-40 caliber. I'm a Cowboy Action Shooter and this is my caliber of choice. My wife and I use the 1889 and 1894 rifles, and the L C Smith shotguns for SASS events.

Suggestions:

1. If you can, I would phase out the microgroove barrel. Use the "Ballard Rifling" description to promote Marlin Firearms as having the best barrels available from the factory, and really make it happen. "The only interesting rifles are accrurate rifles", this is a famous quote and it is so true. You have got to get this right or nothing else you do will matter.

2. Make a Carbine and a Rifle in just a limited number of calibers. As fickle as gun-lovers are, you will never please everyone, but you should have a representative number of calibers of guns available. Pick the best ones and stick with them. I wouldn't use any "Winchester" calibers at all if you don't absolutely have to. People are funny, they don't want to buy a Marlin rifle with Winchester stamped on it anyplace. It's like buying a Chevy car with a Ford engine in it, it's not good brand identification.

3. Here's my proposed list of centerfire firearms:

Model 1894, all with Straight Grip Stock:
.32-20 2/3 Mag 18.5" Carbine, and Full Mag 20" Oct Rifle
.38/357 2/3 Mag 18.5" Carbine, and Full Mag 20" Oct Rifle
.44SPL/44MAG 2/3 Mag 18.5" Carbine, and Full Mag 20" Oct Rifle
.45LC 2/3 Mag 18.5" Carbine, and Full Mag 20" and 24" Oct Rifle

Model 336 and 1895, all with Straight Grip Stock on Octogon BBL Models and Pistol Grip Stock on Round BBL Models:
.30-30 Full Mag 20" Carbine (336C), and 2/3 Mag 24" Rifle (old 336A)
.330MAR Full Mag 20" Carbine (330C), and 2/3 Mag 24" Rifle (330S)
.35REM Full Mag 20" Carbine (336C), and 2/3 Mag 24" Rifle (old 336A)
.38-55 2/3 Mag 20" Carbine (336C), and Ful Mag 24" Oct Rifle (cowboy)
.444MAR Full Mag 20" Carbine (444C), and 2/3 Mag 24" Rifle (444S)
.45-70 2/3 Mag 20" Carbine (1895G), and Ful Mag 24" Oct Rifle (cowboy)
.450MAR Full Mag 20" Carbine (1895M), and 2/3 Mag 24" Rifle (450S)

Also offer: .44MAG, .30-30, .444MAR, and the .450MAR Carbines in Stainless with Black/Camo Stock. Don't offer Stainless and Wood Stock together, it doesn't make sense.

4. The .330MAR or .338 Marlin or whatever you want to call it, is there to fill the gap between the .35REM and .444MAR. It is the new 336ER. It should have Ballard Rifling that is the same size as the .338MAG, so that bullets are already available. 225 grain Speer Grand Slams should be flat enough for the tube magazine. But you will need some new bullets, so get ahold of of one of the bullet suppliers and work with them to get it right. You have got to balance out expansion and penetration. Velocity will be high. Use the 450MAR platform. Offer it both ways, in a big heavy gun and a much smaller and handier one. Put a good recoil pad on it and do not put any sights on it. Include scope rings instead.

5. I recommend that you forget the checkering on all models. Cheap checkering just makes the gun look cheaper. Use real wood and concentrate on getting the fit and finish done right. Keep the wood thin and trim. One of the very best things about a lever action rifle is the way it fits in your hand as you carry it for hours. Personally, I don't like the looks of the bands around the barrel. I like the classic look of the forend cap and magazine under the barrel without a band.

6. The Custom Shop is a Great Idea. Why not absorb Ballard Rifle in Cody, WY and have that be the center for your custom orders? They already have Marlin-Ballard Rifles. Let them offer custom 1894 Marlins in .38-40, 336 Marlins in .356ER, and 1895 Marlins in .40-65 for all the guys (like me) who love to shoot the old calibers. And they could porvide any of the "standard" calibers in custom configuration, longer barrels, take-down frames, high grade wood with hand checkering, special sights, engraving and case coloring; all for a price of course. Let it be known that they will accept old original rifles for "factory" restoration.

7. The H&R Rifles have a niche because they are so inexpensive. They could have a bigger appeal. The scope mounts too high because of the shape of the hammer; reshape the hammer and design scope mounts that really fit and look nice. Mostly you need to work on the stock. the shape, the fit and finish, the material are all wrong. It just screams out the it is "cheap". And while the customer doesn't want to pay too much for his firearm, he doesn't want to be the one guy in hunting camp with the cheapest looking gun either. It's a status symbol, and one needs to take pride in it. Even if it is inexpensive, it still needs to be beautiful.

8. The LC Smith Shotguns could be a great thing, but it is a shame that they are not built in the USA. I know that to some customers, that is the most important thing when purchasing a new gun. I haven't seen one of these in person, but they look kind of like the Huglu Shotguns from Turkey. I think that you should be very careful with quality control on them if they are. I have a Huglu SO and I had a lot of trouble getting it to work correctly. I'm sure the dealer didn't make any money on that gun.

I sure hope that this email finds you and that, somehow, it helps you to understand the gun market a little bit better. Let me know if there's anything else I can do to help.

Take 'er Easy,

Danny
Danny@dannyeagan.com

gcf · « **Reply #52 on:** August 22, 2005, 04:12:46 AM »

Quote from: Teton Kid

Diana,

I sure hope that this email finds you and that, somehow, it helps you to understand the gun market a little bit better. Let me know if there's anything else I can do to help.

Take 'er Easy,

Danny
Danny@dannyeagan.com

Great post Danny - sure hope some one is listening.....

alamogunr · « **Reply #53 on:** August 23, 2005, 06:38:48 AM »

Thanks for asking. Hope to see some of the suggestions others have made put in the product line. My brother and I bought our first Marling in the mid-50's, a model 57 I think. A Levermatic for sure. Forget what we traded it for.

Survey Questions

Are you a recent or long-term Marlin owner?
Long term if above counts. Now have a beautiful 336 and a 1895SS 45-70. I'm not tied to Marlins, I have 5 other lever guns. The 336 in .30-30 was my last acquisition

What were the main reasons that you chose to buy the Marlin product over another competitor?
Price(all used) and cartridge(.45-70)

What specifically about the Marlin products do you like or not like?

Don't like the fat forends on 336

What types of products do you wish Marlin made?

Others are a better source of this information.

Are there any accessories, if offered by Marlin, that you would purchase?

Receiver sights or tang sights. Not a priority since these are available from other manufacturers.

If you were offered to purchase a share or shares of the company, would you?

Would depend on the specifics of the financials and performance of management. My liking for the products would be a factor if preceding conditions were not conclusive.

John C-S · « **Reply #54 on:** August 28, 2005, 04:58:59 PM »

Diana,

The upside about these rifles like the 336, 444, 1895, 1894, 39A is balance and appearance. The downside is that not all Marlin Levers are created equal--and finding this out means buying it first and hoping everything works as it should.

John C-S · « **Reply #55 on:** August 28, 2005, 05:06:43 PM »

Diana,

The upside about these rifles like the 336, 444, 1895, 1894, 39A is balance and appearance. The downside is that not all Marlin Levers are created equal--and finding this out means buying it first and hoping everything works as it should.

ba_50 · « **Reply #56 on:** August 29, 2005, 12:03:23 PM »

Are you a recent or long-term Marlin owner?

I've had a 39M, 781, and 336RC (30/30) spread over 40 years

What were the main reasons that you chose to buy the Marlin product over another competitor?

I liked the looks of the 39M 40 years ago.
Couldn't pass up a 336 recently, decent price and walnut stock

What specifically about the Marlin products do you like or not like?

Outrageous prices, who ever thought a simple lever action would cost $500.00? Lower the prices and go for volume sales, so we can afford to buy guns again.
336's are easier to take apart then a 94
Dislike heavier 336 over 94 although certainly can live with it.
Poor triggers
781 wouldn't feed right and bolt handle broke off, trigger pull pathetic, yet very accurate. I doubt if the bolt guns are any better. I got a Savage Mark II LH and nothing works right. I think they are built about alike.
No left hand bolt .22 rifle
I haven't checked your warranty but there should be a money back guarantee if firearm is defective.

What types of products do you wish Marlin made?

A good quality left handed .22 bolt action for around $200.00-225.00
A light weight 39M, for $200-250

Are there any accessories, if offered by Marlin, that you would purchase?
Peep sight and Firesight insert post.

If you were offered to purchase a share or shares of the company, would you? No

sjones · « **Reply #57 on:** August 29, 2005, 02:00:31 PM »

I am a first time buyer,and I just bought a used 336 in 30-30.The serial # is AB7765.I bought it based on other peoples recomendation.Can you please tell me when it was made and also send me a users manual.I have tried to get one from the marlin compay itself but haven't recieved any answers to my emails or phone call.Maybe you can help.Thank you very much. sheldon jones

jbadams66 · « **Reply #58 on:** August 29, 2005, 03:16:09 PM »

I dont know where you got you basic lever action but I got a 336c which is the most expensive of the 336 based actions (excluding cowboy models) and it was only about $350.00 brand new. I dont think any other firearm company can put a gun like the 336 out for much cheaper.

I have to say that I wish marlin would put out more options with the guns they already have, (guide gun with full length mag). Quality control from factory is not the best but the warranty service for me was very fast and fixed my gun so I cant complain about that.

One thing marlin could do is get some powder manufactures to publish some +p levels for the .35 rem, up around .30-30 or .444 psi levels. The guns can handle it and this would sell more guns without marlin having to gear up for a different caliber.

Uncle Ji · « **Reply #59 on:** August 29, 2005, 11:58:15 PM »

Survey Questions

Are you a recent or long-term Marlin owner?

My first Marlin purchased back in 1976

What were the main reasons that you chose to buy the Marlin product over another competitor?

Always wanted a levergun in .44 mag for Wild Boar hunting, the Marlin 1894 the only game in town back then.

What specifically about the Marlin products do you like or not like?

I like the lines, the size, the quality, don't like the newer gun's hammer block safety, halfcock was good enough for the first 100 years of existance.

What types of products do you wish Marlin made?

Wish they made a straight grip 336, wish they would chamber the 50AE in the 1894 with a 16" barrel, make a dream boar gun. Wish the 336 went back to the square bolt design of the 36 (1893). Wish they'd start making the single shot Ballard rifles again in .444, 45/70, etc.

Are there any accessories, if offered by Marlin, that you would purchase?

Hard cases, and a steel locking storage locker

If you were offered to purchase a share or shares of the company, would you?

Certainly