awaveritt
12-26-2009, 09:11 PM
Took my new Marlin 1894c to the range today (see pics). Sandbagged about 100 rounds of various ammo but mainly my cast TL358-158-SWC loaded in both 357 cases and 38 cases. Informal shooting with iron sights (all shooting was at 50 yds) produced the groups in the pics. SWC's fed fairly smoothly although some had to be coaxed into the chamber if I canted the rifle as I cycled the lever. RNFP's and Factory winchesters fled flawlessly. Have not finished cleaning barrel so will report on any leading issues asap.
The rifle comes with decent walnut (even a little fiddleback on the buttstock). Wood to metal finish was average. Very pleased with trigger - crisp and not too heavy. The front sling swivel is oriented in the wrong direction. Out of the box, the gun printed about 6 inches to the right and the buckhorn sights leave a lot to be desired, expecially for my 56 year old eyes. Will be ordering the excellent Skinner peep sight, soon.
The 357's were loaded over 5.0 grains bullseye. The 38 cases were loaded over 3.5 grains BE. I also plan to develop some heavier loads with 2400. My cast SWC's seem to be fairly accurate but this is my first experience with cast boolits in a rifle and would really appreciate any feedback from you all.
The rifle comes with decent walnut (even a little fiddleback on the buttstock). Wood to metal finish was average. Very pleased with trigger - crisp and not too heavy. The front sling swivel is oriented in the wrong direction. Out of the box, the gun printed about 6 inches to the right and the buckhorn sights leave a lot to be desired, expecially for my 56 year old eyes. Will be ordering the excellent Skinner peep sight, soon.
The 357's were loaded over 5.0 grains bullseye. The 38 cases were loaded over 3.5 grains BE. I also plan to develop some heavier loads with 2400. My cast SWC's seem to be fairly accurate but this is my first experience with cast boolits in a rifle and would really appreciate any feedback from you all.