Picked up a nice condition, or so it appeared, 1954 Marlin 336 this afternoon from an LGS. Ballard rifling etc. and about in 88 percent condition including excellent rifling. Top, not waffle top, but has never been drilled for a scope. All original. Anyhow, while breaking her completly down as I do all new to me guns I discovered that Bubba had ground on the barrel, and the magazine - though of less consequence, to fit a quick release sling mount screw. Sigh. The magazine sling mount covers the offending area completly. I can return her easily and get a full refund, though it will cost me a couple hours total in the car. The grind is about .040 into the barrel from my measurements and not as deep as the slot for the rear band screw, but what an eyesight and a fine example of authentic frontier jibberish...i mean craftsmanship... And maybe a hazzard, but am not convinced as of this moment.
Anyhow, would you return her or keep her and shoot? I have 360 in her which 'ain't' bad for a Marlin 30-30 with Ballard rifling....but I do already have one that I restored a few years back. My thoughts earlier today was that I couldn't pass up one in original condition at a good price. But now that I have discovered Bubba was here I am considering a return... Thoughts?
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