Winchester Vs. Marlin

[Jason30-30]

I Have Both A Marlin & A Winchester In 30-30. I Love The Quick Handling Of My Winchester And The Smooth Action. BUT I Also Love My Marlin. I Dont Like The Micro Groove Rifling As Much As Traditional But It Still Shoots Great. I Wont Be Mounting Scopes But Having The Option On A Marlin Is Nice.

Which One Do You Prefer?

[btroj]

I prefer Marlin. Action is so simple and easy to strip. Cleaning from breech is nice. Easy to mount a scope. Lower cost.
Microgroove isn't a real issue, if you know what to do! And we do here!

Marlin all the way

[calaverasslim]

When it comes to this question, you'll get many answers.

While shooting cast, I prefer the Winchester. The rifling of the Winny is more conducive to cast.

Jacketed, then Marlin gets my nod. But by the same token, if you keep your loads below 1600fps, the the micro-groove means nothing.

In the end, I just prefer the handling and the scope setup on the marlin.

[EDK]

Everything in the safe is a JM marked MARLIN...except the SPRINGFIELD M1A.

We'll see if REMINGTON can clean up its act and get MARLIN back in business.

:castmine::redneck::Fire:

[ReloaderFred]

I own both brands of leveraction rifles and my nod goes to the Marlin. I've got four Winchesters, and well over a dozen Marlins in leveraction. The Marlins just seem to fit me better and the ease of maintenance is also a plus.

Hope this helps.

Fred

[Chill Wills]

Contemporary Marlins don’t interest me much But the old ones do.
Almost all Winchesters I have interest in are rifles (not carbines) therefor are old.
1892 rifles= old.
1894 rifles = old
any 1886, yup, old.
Marlin 1889 …old too
I guess I just like old stuff
I like looking at young stuff but my wife keeps an eye on me
[smilie=l:

[Mohillbilly]

Blonds,Redheads, I liks'em both . Marlins .41, 32-20, 32H&R, Win. 30-30 ,32 winspec, .44 ,& .45 . All good . Wife kept an eye on me till I turned 60 .

[pdawg_shooter]

When it comes to this question, you'll get many answers.

While shooting cast, I prefer the Winchester. The rifling of the Winny is more conducive to cast.

Jacketed, then Marlin gets my nod. But by the same token, if you keep your loads below 1600fps, the the micro-groove means nothing.

In the end, I just prefer the handling and the scope setup on the marlin.

I have a 336 in 30-30 MG barrel. I shoot cast 150gr at 2335fps and 170gr at 2176 and both shoot into 1.75" or less. But then I paper patch them.

[Ranch Dog]

...But by the same token, if you keep your loads below 1600fps, the the micro-groove means nothing.

Hope you don't tell my MG Marlins that! They have been killing a bunch of critters at velocities over 2100 FPS for a number of years.

[W.R.Buchanan]

I like Marilins because they are cheap and easy to work on. They refinish well and you can make one slick as a whistle in about 2 hours of easy work and $10 worth of springs.

The actions are much simpler and respond well to a little TLC which can be done by anyone who can work a file and sandpaper.

Most early Winchesters are too valuable to mess with. And I see no advantage to the Winchester action over the Marlin action strength wise. So initial cost is the main governing factor.

They are both good guns ,but the Marlin is definately more bang for the buck.

In the new Rifle magazine #260 Jan of 2012 Brian Pearce does and article on the current status of Marlin. And is very adamant about making it known that Marlin is fine and despelling the rumors concerning implosion. The changeover is resulting in a modernization of all of the manufacturing processes for all models, as some of the processes were a full century old. Everything is being retooled into CNC style production machinery, and quality will be high simply becasue it is easier to make it that way with new machnery.

The highest volumn models are in full production and the shorter run variations will be added as production increases.

So you should all continue to love Marlin rifles as in this case "change is a good thing".

Randy

[Matthew 25]

When a man with a Winchester meets a man with a pistol, the man with a pistol is a dead man.

I like Winchesters, esp 1892.

[Dan Cash]

When a man with a Winchester meets a man with a pistol, the man with a pistol is a dead man.

I like Winchesters, esp 1892.

I met a man one night who had a Winchester. When the Colt 1911 cleared my leather, he put the Winchester on the ground. I like my 92 and 96 Winies but Marlin is at home here too.

[largom]

I prefer the Marlins and the Micro Groove is NOT a disadvantage. My Marlins shoot cast and jacketed at well over 2000 fps and less than 2 moa. Just need to know how to handload, not reload.

Larry

[FromTheWoods]

Never had a Marlin. Memory says I've never touched one!

Old Winchesters all the way. Quite a bias, but I've lived happily ever after for over a 1/2 century.

[1kshooter]

Winchester makes lever guns......lol Marlin for me and I will buy more if Remlin ever gets sorted out!

[Lonegun1894]

I have 4 1894 Winchesters, 2 Rossi 1892 (winchester knock-offs), and 1 Marlin 336, and all shoot great. I also dont think the MG is a disadvantage if you know how to make it shoot. I can get a 150gr moving at 2400+fps out of the 2 Win .30-30s and the Marlin .30-30 with equal accuracy and no leading so I dont buy the low velocity only in MGs stuff. I guess purely numbers wise, I would have to vote Winchester over Marlin, but honestly, I think they're equal. Shoulder both and see which feels better and I bet you'll be happy.

[white eagle]

I have both
Winchester has a smoother action
Marlin has ability to mount a scope
your choice
is one better I doubt it its a preference thing

[BarryinIN]

I really like things about both, but the Winchester reasons are based on appearance, sentimentality, etc, and the Marlin reasons are more practical, so I would have to pick Marlin if limited to one.
But if that is the only factor, I like my Savage 99 best of all!

I like the ability to take a Marlin apart with the flat tip of my pocket knife as a screwdriver while I sit against a tree, and aside from the ejector, the parts are all big enough that even I can't lose them. I think Winchesters have more screws than Marlins have parts, and won't start taking one apart without having set aside some time without interference and having a parts box handy.

I like the Marlin closed receiver top. I never gave that much thought since I never scoped one, and thought the "closed to debris" thing was more theoretical than anything. Then I once decided to shoot a dirt clod with my Marlin 45-70 from the edge of the woods after a snowfall, and the shot caused snow from the limb above me to drop on me and the action right as I had it levered open. It was no big problem because it brushed right off and I was heading inside anyway, but could have been if it fell into an open topped Winchester and I wouldn't be able to stop and clean it up soon.

Marlins are usually cheaper.

Winchesters usually look better to me, most of them have a more interesting history, and some models have actions that work smoother, but that's about it. That is enough to have a few, though.
I have a Browning 71 because I always thought the 71s were the most "outdoorsy" looking rifle ever made. When I was around four, I used to admire the mounted moose head belonging to a friend of my dad's. Later, I already liked 71s so when I learned that moose was got by a 71 I had to have one.
I have a Winchester 1895 because they were interesting too. It's a carbine in .30 Army because I was reading a lot of SpanAm War Rough Rider history at one time.
I have a Winchester 92 because I thought they were slick operating and everybody from The Rifleman to Hondo had one.
So there are some good reasons, but some not very practical ones.

I never warmed up to any Win 94 by the way, but all I had were fairly new.

[northmn]

I have found Marlins to have a way smoother action than Winchesters, especially new. A broke in Winchester may be fairly smooth. The 92 Rossi clone was a nice carrying rifle but I sold it as I like my Marlin 32-20 better. I could get a Marlin in 35 Remington which is also a plus. Marlins are easier to mount scopes whcih the older eyes appreciate. Biggest complaint some have about a Marlin lies in the thicker forearm which does not seem to carry as nice.
To me the 94 Winchester is a pretty darn good rifle the Marlin is a great one.

DP

[Canuck Bob]

I own a Win 94, 92, and Marlin 444 (336 action).

For daily work I prefer the Marlin 336 as it is a bit bigger and heavier and that suits me. I don't use a scope so the weight is really meningless as I add nothing else. I also like the pistol grip and the easy breech cleaning is a big feature for me.

The Winchester 94 is the epitomy of the western lever action and its lines make me smile everytime I pick it up. It is rocket fast to handle and everything a carbine should be. I waited a long time to add a Win 94 to my safe and now realize that was a grave error. I foolishly undervalued the 30-30 and 32 Special cartridges.

I've now got a 92 woods loafing 32-20 long rifle, a 94 32 Special deer carbine, and a big animal Marlin 444. That covers gopher to moose nicely in true North American style. They are cast friendly with long neck or straight case cartridges and gentle twists.

Either the Win or Marlin are fine rifles to own and use for hunting and showing off.

I think the exposed hammer lever is the best hunting rifle ever built. An iron or peep sighted version hand and horse carries and handles better than anything else, again my own opinion. That opinion is not based solely in blind bias. These rifles really handle in an outstanding fashion. Plus I can cock and fire quickly and silently without having to carry a cocked and locked rifle.

[Chill Wills]

BARRYinIN writes: "When I was around four, I used to admire the mounted moose head belonging to a friend of my dad's. Later, I already liked 71s so when I learned that moose was got by a 71 I had to have one."
[smilie=w:

I'm with you on that. I was able to buy a used Winchester 71 when I was in my twenties and shot a large dry cow elk with it using a cast bullet that fall. It was a great hunt. It was the first center fire / cast bullet meat for me. Before that, it had been all ML- cast bullet hunting and the Winchester 71 changed all that for me. Still have the rifle but sadly id does not see the light of day much now.

[wrench man]

I sold my one and only Winchester 94 to buy my 13'th of 14 Marlin levers!

[Ziptar]

Marlins for me and I prefer the earlier built pre-saftey, pre rebounding hammer, Microgroove guns.

Just echo what others have already said. Simpler to take down, side eject, a smooth but reliable and robust action. They are buiilt like a brick outhouse.

The round barreled 20" guns are a perfect fit and balance for me.

I tried the Winchester, Rossi / Puma, and Henry and they just didn't feel as comfortable.

I'll add one plus I've not seen mentioned yet. The one thing I mostly didn't care for on the Winchester. I don't like how the whole bottom of the action / receiver opens up when working the action. Maybe its just me but, I could see all kinds of dirt, leaves, bugs, and rodents getting up in there. :)

[Larry Gibson]

Always amazes me what marlin owners can come up with to justify theiir choice..........:???:

Winchester owners don't need to "justify" their choice...........:drinks:

Larry Gibson

[Canuck Bob]

Always amazes me what marlin owners can come up with to justify theiir choice..........:???:

Winchester owners don't need to "justify" their choice...........:drinks:

Larry Gibson

They don't have to justify thier denial either. lol!

[izzyjoe]

i don't care for top eject on winnys, but they are some nice rifles. but make mine a Marlin!

[olafhardt]

I like 94's better if they are those arround SN4, 500,000 made in the late 70's. The fact that the guts fall out when it opens up makes cleaning easier. Flip it oper and have at it. Take the stock off, pour boiling water or gasoline or dieselor what ever all in it, slop on some oil, drag the boresnake through it replace stock or heck leave it dirty.

[400short]

I have both and like both but as my eyesight goes I find the ability to scope does make the difference. Marlin if I could have only 1.

[Larry Gibson]

The M94AEs can mout a scope as low as Marlins....or is it the Marlin can mount the scope as low as the Winchester..........?

With scout scope bases both are as low as each other and side or top ejection doesn't matter........

Hmmmmm, never saw the "guts fall out" of one of those Winchesters............must be why Marlin owners like those big, clubby Marlins....they can abuse them more.........:kidding:

Let's not lose our sense of humor guys, ok?:D

Larry Gibson

[TXGunNut]

I have more Winchesters than I do Marlins but I think the Marlin is a better hunting rifle for me. Marlins seem to be more accurate and the ability to easily mount a scope is a plus as well. I love the looks of my Winchesters but they seldom, if ever leave the case if they go hunting at all these days. I've learned to appreciate the lines of a Marlin over the years but I still like the looks of my Winchesters a little better. Marlins are a bit more affordable but the Remlin situation is having an impact on that, I'm afraid.
Winchester vs. Marlin? They're both winners!

[Canuck Bob]

I love em both.

I always liked the way my 444 carried in fresh snow. The side port kept snow out of my action. This is one feature I like over top ejectors like the Winchester and bolt actions.

Only scoped 2 levers, my 444 for awhile and a BLR in 243 many years ago. In the end I just prefer to shoot with a peep. Any iron sighted lever carries wonderfully.

I agree with Larry, any discussions about these fine rifles should be light hearted. Neither is a wrong choice.

[1Shirt]

I would like about 25 or 30 of each to test before I made a decision. Will admit that Marlins are the easiest to clean.
1Shirt!:coffee:

[btroj]

Always amazes me what marlin owners can come up with to justify theiir choice..........:???:

Winchester owners don't need to "justify" their choice...........:drinks:

Larry Gibson

Tre, but Marlin owners don't feel the need to have a NAME they can brad about. We just like a sweet shooting, easy to clean and maintain rifle.

Browning designed some great guns but he was overly complex in the 94 Winchester. Marlin 336 series rifles are so simple they are amazing.

A Winchester is a bit "nicer" looking rifle but mine are bought to shoot, not look at. And a Marlin is a great shooter.

We can all find reasons why we prefer one or the other but we can all agree that lever actions a whole bunch of fun.

[reivertom]

Always amazes me what marlin owners can come up with to justify theiir choice..........:???:

Winchester owners don't need to "justify" their choice...........:drinks:

Larry Gibson

It's OK for you to be in love with a legend, but I like Marlins because they make more sense, they work, and I don't have to pay double or triple the price a "legendary name". I know I'm not a cowboy in the Old West and I just go with what works.

[pdawg_shooter]

I have owned both, and still own 3 Marlins. Made good money on the Winchesters. But for hunting and shooting I will take a Marlin every time. They just shoot better.

[Larry Gibson]

It's OK for you to be in love with a legend, but I like Marlins because they make more sense, they work, and I don't have to pay double or triple the price a "legendary name". I know I'm not a cowboy in the Old West and I just go with what works.

Well I paid $250 for this Winchester M94AE Black Shadow. That's a lot less that any comparible Marlin. It shoots 1 - 2 MOA with both jacketed and cast. I've owned numerous marlins over the years and haven't found one that shoots better. Well, I was a cowboy in the west (raised on a cattle ranch in Oregon) and went with what worked when I got a M94 carbine....just like most cowboys did and like most hunters did.......go with what works........

Oh yes, Marlins do fine but in reality not better than Winchesters or visa versa. Kind of like Ford vs Chevy or the '06 vs the .270...........the real difference is criticising the other just to justify ones own choice. In reality they are both fine rifles for what they are used for. Just seems like Marlin owners have to go out of their way to criticise the Winchester....some sort of guilt complex I guess........:kidding: (let's not lose our sense of humor here....yippie kie yay....)

Larry Gibson

[Ziptar]

Just seems like Marlin owners have to go out of their way to criticise the Winchester....some sort of guilt complex I guess........:kidding: (let's not lose our sense of humor here....yippie kie yay....)

Larry Gibson

As this is your 3rd post to this thread in 48 hours each criticizing Marlin rifles and putting down Marlin owners as:

A) Having an inferiority complex, "justify theiir choice".
B) Abusers and lovers of "chubby rifles".
C) Having a "guilt complex".

Seems to me that you are the only one thats been "going out of their way" as you put it. Your posts in fact seem as if you are trying to justify your own choice to yourself. It's very Freudian actually.

In fact, Larry I think you are suffering from what mental health specialists call "Marlin Envy".

It's OK to admit it. Admission is the first step in "healing". Now take a deep breath, give yourself a hug, and go ahead and say it Larry. "I wish I had a Marlin instead of a Winchester", YOU CAN DO IT!!!!

(Posted with all the sense of humor you wish to grant it.)

[btroj]

I don't think Larry putting down Marlins at all. He has a history with Winchester so that's what he prefers. I own 5 Marlins, no Winchesters. Not hard to figure out which I prefer.
Sometimes we go with what we know. This isn't always a logical decision, sometimes it is purely emotional.

Larry, we both agree that lever guns are fun. Doesn't manner which brand, just that it has a lever.

[Larry Gibson]

I don't think Larry inputting down Marlins at all. He has a history with Winchester so that's what he prefers. I own 5 Marlins, no Winchesters. Not hard to figure out which I prefer.
Sometimes we go with what we know. This isn't always a logical decision, sometimes it is purely emotional.

Larry, we both agree that lever guns are fun. Doesn't manner which brand, just that it has a lever.
ziptar

No, I'm not putting down Marlins at all. As a matter of fact I like marlins...I also like Winchesters. I also said a couple times I've owned and shot numerous Marlins. I am however putting down Marlin owners who need to justify their choice by putting down Winchesters. There's no reason to do that, just mention the good points about the Marlin you like, no real need to bad mouth Winchesters because they are every bit as good as Marlins or visa versa. I don't suffer from "Marlin envy" because I like Marlins, have owned them and probably will own more. However, it is apparent who suffers from "envy" about "Winchesters":cry: However, again, don't lose your sense of humor here, most of what was said is in jest, at least on my part. That's what the :kidding: means.

BTW; this thread is titled Winchester vs Marlin. It is not titled Bragg about your Marlin, slam Winchesters and no Winchester owners can respond or, heaven forbid, criticise a Marlin. That's what these type of this vs that threads do is generate good natured (hopefully:bigsmyl2:banter back and forth. How many posts in the past 48 hours are "putting down" Winchesters? Probably should have titled the tread; "Marlin owners brag.... No need to start one for Winchester owners because we don't need to "brag":kidding: That's another jest :bigsmyl2::drinks:

Larry Gibson

[smithywess]

Only have vintage Marlins in eight calibres ( .25-36, .25-20, .32-40, .32-20, .30-30, .38-55, .44-40 and .40-65) so I don't know much about the new ones. The history of the original company is fascinating as is the story of Lewis Hepburn (of Creedmoor fame) who designed these early Marlins, a design which is still used today in modern Marlins. Their smooth, simple actions are easy to clean and strip down with very few tools. I don't like carbines, only rifles as that extra barrel length gives a better sight radius, balances better and keeps cast bullet speeds up. The variety of calibres makes handloading very interesting. It's a pity Marlin didn't receive the advertising that other brands obtained from books and the motion picture industry in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Perhaps John Marlin's company would have gone beyond 1906. Who knows.

[TXGunNut]

I try to put down Marlins. I try to put down Winchesters. Damned things won't let me! Next thing I know I'm at the counter doing paperwork!
All kidding aside I'll never understand the rivalry between Marlin and Winchester levergun owners unless it's all in fun. They're both attractive, functional and fun. Can't ask for much more. :popcorn:

[olafhardt]

I am going to tell why I like Winchester Model 94 30-30s, carbines, made in the 1970's, with the messed up receivers better. Scopes on levers are like saddles on hogs. Top eject levers drop the empties at my feet and the receiver fits my hand. It takes an hour to engine turn the receiver which holds oil real well. The Winchester is lighter. The 70's action has a coil main spring and is held together with solid pins and screws. It opens up well enough that you don't have pto take it apart to clean it which ain't rocket science anyway. The 30-30 is effective and avialable and designed to feed, head space and eject. Also the 94 balances and carries like my MARLIN 39 D a short lite 22 carbine which I love and which Marlin only made briefly to show that they could make a slick rifle.

[Nrut]

In the 45-70 I prefer the Marlin GG over my Win. 1886's
In the 30-30 and 38-55 I prefer the Win. M94 over the Marlins because the M94's are lighter and handier in those calibers..

Then there is the Marlin 94 vs the Win. 92...[smilie=l:

[jlchucker]

Blonds,Redheads, I liks'em both . Marlins .41, 32-20, 32H&R, Win. 30-30 ,32 winspec, .44 ,& .45 . All good . Wife kept an eye on me till I turned 60 .

I even like brunettes, and Kimberly Guilfoyle would have made a lot more attractive (and qualified) supreme court justice than the last two appointments IMO. How come you didn't mention 45-70 in your list, Mo? the Marlin 1895 I have is one of my favorite rifles. :-P

[Boondocker]

I like guns, some more than others. For years i kinda wrote off levers as kids hunting rifle here in the Northeast as the men used bolts and alot of 760's (me). Well the fil gave my grandson a Marlin 336 30-30 and me developing light loads (cast) for him to learn the rifle 7yrs old I fell in love with levers. Bought a 30AS off the neighbor fired 6 times for $200 and love it. Now my q quest is a 45/70. I have shot a winny 30 odds years ago but I want one of them also maybe more than one as I like guns. Did I say I like guns, I do you know!!

[400short]

One thing the Marlin has going for it is that it is still made un the U.S.A. I'm hoping Remingtons difficulties are temporary.

[williamwaco]

Hope you don't tell my MG Marlins that! They have been killing a bunch of critters at velocities over 2100 FPS for a number of years.





Me 2.

My favorite deer rifle of all time ( Texas brush country ) was a Marliln 336 - .30-30 with a Lyman 311041 hollow pointed down to about 155 grains. Oh yes, I forgot to mention, 28 gr 3031 - circa 2100 fps.



Didn't have a scope. Had a Williams 5D ( five dollar) receiver sight. Shot around 3" at 100 yards.

And yes, they really did sell for five dollars if you couldn't find a discounter.




.



.

[6pt-sika]

Jacketed, then Marlin gets my nod. But by the same token, if you keep your loads below 1600fps, the the micro-groove means nothing.


I beg to differ !

I have and have had numerouse Marlin rifles with Micro Groove rifling that aceptted and shot cast bullets well in excess of 2000 FPS .

I also can personally dispell the myth that Marlin slow twist Micro Groove barrels in 444 can handle a bullet no heavier then 300 grains !

I regularly shoot cast bullets up to 375 grains in Micro Groove slow twist barrels with acceptable hunting accuracy !

[gnoahhh]

I don't care enough about either one to go out of my way for one. Make mine a Savage!

This guy doesn't like Savages though!:p

http://i481.photobucket.com/albums/rr174/gnoahhh/Deerhunting2011005.jpg

[Ziptar]

ziptar

No, I'm not putting down Marlins at all. As a matter of fact I like marlins...I also like Winchesters. I also said a couple times I've owned and shot numerous Marlins. I am however putting down Marlin owners who need to justify their choice by putting down Winchesters. There's no reason to do that, just mention the good points about the Marlin you like, no real need to bad mouth Winchesters because they are every bit as good as Marlins or visa versa. I don't suffer from "Marlin envy" because I like Marlins, have owned them and probably will own more. However, it is apparent who suffers from "envy" about "Winchesters":cry: However, again, don't lose your sense of humor here, most of what was said is in jest, at least on my part. That's what the :kidding: means.

BTW; this thread is titled Winchester vs Marlin. It is not titled Bragg about your Marlin, slam Winchesters and no Winchester owners can respond or, heaven forbid, criticise a Marlin. That's what these type of this vs that threads do is generate good natured (hopefully:bigsmyl2:banter back and forth. How many posts in the past 48 hours are "putting down" Winchesters? Probably should have titled the tread; "Marlin owners brag.... No need to start one for Winchester owners because we don't need to "brag":kidding: That's another jest :bigsmyl2::drinks:

Larry Gibson

Larry,
My post was just ribbing right back at ya, guess I should have included the :kidding: also.

[Moondawg]

I have a pre 64 Winny Mdl 94, a Marlin Mdl 94CL, a Rossi Mdl 92 and a 1950 vintage Savage 99 in 250 Savage. If I could only keep one of the batch, I would keep the Savage 99. It is close to being a do all rifle, accurate and smooth as butter.

[Char-Gar]

I have both Winchester and Marlin leverguns and both are high quality firearms. But, if I had to choose one or the other, it would be a Marlin. The action is thinner, simpler and it can be cleaned from the breech. It would take more shooting with more rifles than I have to prove it, but I think the Marlin has an every so slight accuracy edge.

But, I don't have to choose, and you will play heck trying to pry my Winchesters out of my hands!

[reivertom]

Well I paid $250 for this Winchester M94AE Black Shadow. That's a lot less that any comparible Marlin. It shoots 1 - 2 MOA with both jacketed and cast. I've owned numerous marlins over the years and haven't found one that shoots better. Well, I was a cowboy in the west (raised on a cattle ranch in Oregon) and went with what worked when I got a M94 carbine....just like most cowboys did and like most hunters did.......go with what works........

Oh yes, Marlins do fine but in reality not better than Winchesters or visa versa. Kind of like Ford vs Chevy or the '06 vs the .270...........the real difference is criticising the other just to justify ones own choice. In reality they are both fine rifles for what they are used for. Just seems like Marlin owners have to go out of their way to criticise the Winchester....some sort of guilt complex I guess........:kidding: (let's not lose our sense of humor here....yippie kie yay....)

Larry Gibson

Dude....You got ripped off! Somebody put a plastic stock on your rifle...didn't you notice???:kidding:

[reivertom]

I don't care enough about either one to go out of my way for one. Make mine a Savage!

This guy doesn't like Savages though!:p

http://i481.photobucket.com/albums/rr174/gnoahhh/Deerhunting2011005.jpg

Nuttin against Savage lever guns from me!

[Larry Gibson]

Dude....You got ripped off! Somebody put a plastic stock on your rifle...didn't you notice???:kidding:

Naw....the wood stock on a real M64 wood (pun intended) have added another $500+ to what I paid.........Besides, I think the plastic makes it more "modern":-) Definately takes me out of the "cowboy" class of which I've been accuased of here........nice thing about the rifle is she shoots really well, especially with LeveRevoltion powder under a 311041HP....fast too:-)

Larry Gibson (aka "Dude")

[Suo Gan]

Marlin Good Points: Easier tear down, easier to scope, they never did go the way of a rebounding trigger
Winchester Good Points: Slimmer, lighter, prettier, carries better

Some opinions, some facts, who cares as long as you are happy!

I am proud to own both myself.

[LuvMy1911]

I have a Marlin and A Winchester in lever action... I like them both for different reasons...
The Marlin is in 45-70 and the Win is in 30-30

I'm looking to learn how to cast for both of them... after I save enough $ to buy a couple of moulds!

I came very close to buying a Savage lever gun. The only thing stopping me was it would have left me with NO grocery money for over a month. If I have the $, I'd have several more lever guns.

Need to earn more $... just wish I could fugure out how.

[northmn]

As a personal prefereence I do not like the Savage. My 300 is a fairly vintage one with a 24 inch barrel. Its trigger pull is deplorable and the lever safety is totally impractical for a left handed shooter. Its a good caliber for setting over fields, and is accurate. I did get a deer with mine at a fair range but could have done so with my Marlin.
http://i550.photobucket.com/albums/ii425/Davidpeck16/Buck%202011/Buck2011002.jpg
Deer do not like Marlins either and I really like the 35 Remington pictured, which you cannot get in a Winchester. They did have a short run of 307,s 356's and 375's which now bring a premium price, but the 35 is a fine caliber. Is Larry's black shadow, with its angle eject for scope mounting and pistol grip a Marlin wanna be:razz::razz: The 24 inch barrels like on the black shadow and my Malin CB's and 35 are really a great attribute once you try one.

DP

[Larry Gibson]

northmm

Nice try[smilie=l:

Not the Blk Sahadow is a modernized M64 for the younger generation who like black plastic stocks and scopes. Might be for us older guys who like Winchesters but whose eye have gone south. I do wish the "new" Winchester in SC would make the M94AE sans the tang, crossbolt safety and rebounding hammer (need the hammer safety notch and leaf spring back) with the 24" barrel chambered in 307 with 12" twist and 358 with 14" twist. If they could talk Hornady into loading those two cartridges with LeveRevolution powder and XTX bullets they really have a rifle. I'd buy one of each for sure and even load my own XTXs + cast:bigsmyl2:

Larry Gibson

[northmn]

I have a black stock on my Mossberg 835 that I use for duck hunting and like it. They are a step up from some of the "hardwood" stained stocks that now adorn some rifles and tough as nails. The 307 is basically the Marlin 308. Wonder how the new Marlin calibers will fare as Winchester dropped them pretty quick:???: I had a 375 Winchester Big Bore that I should have kept. Oh well.

DP

[9.3X62AL]

I enjoy my Marlins and Winchesters equally, and even have room for a 1930-made Savage 99. I think the original poster is in a very advantageous position myself--a 30-30 that lends itself to scope sighting (Marlin 336) and a 30-30 that lends itself to iron sights, either the open buckhorns or the receiver-mounted aperture. A nice 4X on that 336 and the Lyman 66 on the Winny--good to go!

[Maverick]

I'm a Model 94 30-30 guy myself. Even bought one for my 9 year old son (for later). His cycles smoother than mine.

[kelbro]

I have a few of each and they each have their appeal.

If I was forced to trim back, the 39A would stay and the 9422M would go. The 336 would stay (since my eyes are getting worse) and the 1962 94 would go (that would REALLY hurt). The Winnies would bring more money too.

[Gunnut 45/454]

calaverasslim
Really? I guess my Marlin 336W is the exception. As it runs cast Lee 170gr faster then factory 170 Wins. And my cast are actually 180gr bullets! And are more accurate then the Jwords!

[Marlin Junky]

I prefer the 336 action design over the '94 Winchester for its major component fit and feel during cycling. Ease of disassembly and simplistic function are very slick too. Unfortunately, Marlin stopped making my preference in barrels just about the time I was born. Sure you can heat treat a boolit to shoot accurately from a barrel with .0025" deep grooves and/or burn a slow powder that may or may not work well in cold weather; however, being able to shoot (at factory velocities) an alloy I can scratch with my fingernail just makes things simpler.

MJ

[corvette8n]

I like them both also, but they have to be made in the 50's.

Win 94 circa 1950 .32ws
Marlin 336 1950 date code .30-.30.

[pricedo]

Hope you don't tell my MG Marlins that! They have been killing a bunch of critters at velocities over 2100 FPS for a number of years.

I'd really like to see the new Marlin factory get their "stuff" together because if Rossi a Brazilian company can build a credible 336 (the Rio Grande) an American company (Remington) should be able to also.
It's a matter of national pride.

I'd like to be able to buy a new Marlin at some point in the future that is as good as the JM Marlins from the old factory.

The best & strongest levergun ever marketed was the Winchester 1886 and its little brother the 1892.

[MakeMineA10mm]

I own both Winchesters and Marlins. My preference is for the Marlin, and here's why:

Marlin still makes 2 actions (336 & 1894) which are specialized to different length cartridges. In fact, they also make the 1895/444 series, which are basically 336es, but they're optimized for the largest possible cartridges to fit in the action, vs. the shorter 30-30/35 Rem "standard". Winchester basically makes one size action for everything (although they do have the "reinforced" action they brought out for the 307, etc.). Therefore, Marlin has rifles which are more optimized for the cartridges they're chambered in.

Second, in my experience, Marlins' actions cycle and function much more smoothly than Winchester's. Marlin's round-bolt actions are the slickest/smoothest action available in a levergun. (It surprises me how many here have said Winchesters are smoother than Marlins -total opposite of my experience. Also interesting is that a friend had a Puma [Brazilian copy of a Win 92] that was the smoothest Winchester-style gun I've ever felt - about on par with the Marlin 1894.)

Third, side eject is far superior for me in not disturbing my line of sight. Hunting or defense (or competition), I keep my carbine shouldered and keep watching the target over the sights as I'm working the lever. I shoot a repro Win 1866 in CAS, and those cases flying up through my LOS slows me down. It's an uncontrollable distraction for me...

Fourth, the simpler/easier to field strip, the better I'm going to maintain it, and cleaning from the breach end is superior, though I admit a minor point. Also by being easier to tear down, I can work on it, whether that be slicking it up, or fixing something.

Price matters not to me. If Marlins were more expensive than Winchesters, I'd still stand in line to buy one... From an engineering standpoint, I can't criticise JMB's design, but from an end-user point of view, Marlin beat the pants off him.

[pricedo]

I own both Winchesters and Marlins. My preference is for the Marlin, and here's why:

Marlin still makes 2 actions (336 & 1894) which are specialized to different length cartridges. In fact, they also make the 1895/444 series, which are basically 336es, but they're optimized for the largest possible cartridges to fit in the action, vs. the shorter 30-30/35 Rem "standard". Winchester basically makes one size action for everything (although they do have the "reinforced" action they brought out for the 307, etc.). Therefore, Marlin has rifles which are more optimized for the cartridges they're chambered in.

Second, in my experience, Marlins' actions cycle and function much more smoothly than Winchester's. Marlin's round-bolt actions are the slickest/smoothest action available in a levergun. (It surprises me how many here have said Winchesters are smoother than Marlins -total opposite of my experience. Also interesting is that a friend had a Puma [Brazilian copy of a Win 92] that was the smoothest Winchester-style gun I've ever felt - about on par with the Marlin 1894.)

Third, side eject is far superior for me in not disturbing my line of sight. Hunting or defense (or competition), I keep my carbine shouldered and keep watching the target over the sights as I'm working the lever. I shoot a repro Win 1866 in CAS, and those cases flying up through my LOS slows me down. It's an uncontrollable distraction for me...

Fourth, the simpler/easier to field strip, the better I'm going to maintain it, and cleaning from the breach end is superior, though I admit a minor point. Also by being easier to tear down, I can work on it, whether that be slicking it up, or fixing something.

Price matters not to me. If Marlins were more expensive than Winchesters, I'd still stand in line to buy one... From an engineering standpoint, I can't criticise JMB's design, but from an end-user point of view, Marlin beat the pants off him.

I've owned both and the pre-safety Rossi Puma 92s and the JM Marlins (NOT the new Remlins).

They are BOTH without a doubt are the best exposed hammer leverguns I've ever owned.

My favorite levergun of all is my Ruger Model 96/44. I think I lucked out & got one with a decent trigger.

The pre-safety Rossis are the only honest to goodness Gospel according to Saint John (Browning) model 92s around. They combine modern metallurgy & modern ammo with a time proven design.

I don't know what those contraptions Miroku is making with the rebounding hammers & tang safeties are besides expensive but they're definitely not model 92s.

I don't like the "day care center" attitude gun manufacturers have that shooters are irresponsible idiots that need umpteen safeties on a gun to keep from blowing themselves and each other away.

It's quite frankly INSULTING.

[Mohillbilly]

" I even like brunettes, and Kimberly Guilfoyle would have made a lot more attractive (and qualified) supreme court justice than the last two appointments IMO. How come you didn't mention 45-70 in your list, Mo? the Marlin 1895 I have is one of my favorite rifles. " (Nrut) I had a .444 with gold trigger but it "got away from me" . I loaned it to a good friend to take deer hunt'n as a backup. He killed his first with it and didn't want to give it back . Kind hearted as I am , and looking for a trade . I swaped it for a SS Winchester Mod 70 in 300 Weatherby with new scope ( with some taboot money). Only been fired twice . Did I mention a nearly full box of ammo came with it minus the 2 shots ! My friend had in in "layawake" for over 6 months and got if out by deer season an it kicked his aXx loose . I have wanted a Cowboy 45-70 for a long while . +1 on the brunettes ' been married to one for 30+ yrs . When I married , I told her my right eye didn't get married . She said thats one would be black all the time. Then like a woman she changed her mind , and said I don't care where you get your appetite long as you come home for dinner ...

[TXGunNut]

I've read this whole thread, own a few of each and all I've learned is that I need more of each. :veryconfu All my beloved Winchesters are 94's but it seems I need a 92 or a 73 and an 1886. Have a sweet 336 in 35 Rem and an awesome 1895 Guide Gun in 45-70 but it seems I need an 1894 as well.
Perhaps then I will be able to tell you which is better but I doubt it. I probably won't even be able to tell you which one I like better but I'll continue my research just in case I'm able to reach a conclusion someday. [smilie=l:

[felix]

I tend to agree. In my situation it depends upon my current emotions more than anything on the particular day and especially time of shoot. For example, if I feel strong and chipper the heavy guns (336) are better than the lighter ones (Ruger lever). The most consistently accurate lever gun I have is a 94 cross-bolt in 32-30 (32 WS). All of my levers have standard sights as issued, so the accuracy is mostly accomplished by how the gun fits emotionally. A dead beer can is a dead can by any of the guns at 80 yards. ... felix

[Dirty30]

Winchester without a doubt. I would never dream of putting a scope on a lever action rifle, so that is not a selling point to me. I do admire the big bore options that Marlin has available, and they build quality rifles. Winchesters are smoother by a mile and come in a variety of big bore cartridges I love. (40-82, 405 WCF, 45-70, 45-90)

[felix]

If a gun is not smooth in operations, that gun stays in the closet mostly no matter the brand, type, etc. ... felix

[MakeMineA10mm]

Winchester without a doubt. I would never dream of putting a scope on a lever action rifle, so that is not a selling point to me. I do admire the big bore options that Marlin has available, and they build quality rifles. Winchesters are smoother by a mile and come in a variety of big bore cartridges I love. (40-82, 405 WCF, 45-70, 45-90)

Another person who has not cycled a 336?? Or are you comparing toggle-link Winchesters only and ignoring the current-production Win 94s? In that case I could see an argument for the Winchester's smoothness, but in my experience, even between a toggle-link Winchester and a 336 Marlin, the Marlin still wins in the smoothness category.

I took the OPs question to mean "currently-produced" or "modern-era". [edited to add: Yep, I just went back and read the OP's post. He's comparing 30-30s, so definitely talking a Win94 vs Marlin336.] As far as smoothness of the action, just look at cowboy action shooting champions' carbines. You won't find a single Win 94. Lots of repro toggle-link Winnys and lotsa current-production Marlins. CAS carbines are all about smooth operation...

[olafhardt]

There very few win 94's made in cas calibers. Marlin 336's work smoother, but thet are still too heavy and too fat for me. I like winchesters from the 1970's.

[Dirty30]

I only own 2 Winchesters manufactured after 1930, the "trapper" M94 and the M95. My 1886 has the smoothest action I have ever worked though hands down. The 1873 works like a dream too. As for the Marlin 336 shot for a bit there is no comparision. I'm not bad mouthing Marlins, as I said they are good rifles, but I prefer my Winchesters. I don't have lunch with any cowboy action shooting champions, so I can't argue that point, however all I've ever seen at those shoots were Uberti's, mostly 1873 and 1866 Win clones. As for what's made today I think Henry is making a nice little rifle. My Dad won a Big Boy in a raffle and it's a shooter.

[Artful]

Quick check shows Marlins ahead of Win in my safe -