I was given an 1881 Marlin that has seen some better days. The action is in decent shape but the barrel is rusted out with rifling barely visible and lots of pits. Also, it is missing the wood.
So, I guess I was given part of an 1881 Marlin.
Anyway, I am debating what to do with it. It would be nice to make it into a shooter again whether .45-70 or other caliber.
Obviously it could be re-barreled and I could probably find or make a buttstock and forearm for it.
I am more interested in having the barrel lined preferably in .45-70 but I am not sure there is enough meat in the original barrel to bore it for a .45-70 liner.
Does anyone know if this can be done or who can advise?
Even if .45-70 is not doable, maybe it could be lined and chambered to a smaller caliber. That would at least retain the original octagon barrel.
Any comments or advice would be appreciated.
Longbow