Going to buy a 336 tomorrow, need help!

H

hulley

New member
Hey guys, I've been trying to find an early 336 locally and found one at a LGS. I've never owned one or even fired one so I dont know what to look for in a used levergun.

Aside from the obvious wear and tear are there any signs to look for that would indicate a bad gun? Do I simply look for a smooth action and thats it? I understand the 336 is pretty tough but they are new to me.

Thanks
Steve
 
At one time my Dad, my brother, and I all were hunting with Marlin 336's. They were bought in the early to mid 60's. They were completely dependable and none of us ever had a problem, other than my Dad's rifle barrel finally giving it up after many years of not being cleaned (ever). I can't comment on the last decade of 336 production, or the crossbolt safety versions of the rifle. What I can say, and feel totally correct about, is that if you can find a 336 that dates to the 60's or 70's, you'll have a fine rifle even if it's a bit worn. As for caliber, I don't really think it makes a hill of beans as to whether it's in 30/30 or in 35 Remington, though I personally prefer the 35 Remington. Just make sure that the bore isn't too rusty or pitted. A straight 4 power scope will do just fine for any shooting you need to do. And get that hammer offset to put on the hammer. That'll give you good thumb access for cocking the rifle. And I'd suggest the Uncle Mike's sling swivels (which you'll probably have to add to the rifle, since the older ones won't have that as standard issue on the rifle) and get a good sling.
 
I have a 336 in 35 rem, I love it. Very accurate, 1.25" 5 shot groups and that's with a 1.75 power scope. Mine is from early 90s. Id check the action, the barrel condition and the ejector. Probably won't be able to check actual ejection unless you have a dummy round but you can remove the bolt easy enough and do a visual on the ejector. Be careful if you do the ejector will fall out when you remove the bolt.
 
I have a mid 80's 336 in .35 Remington, a great rifle. Never a problem. I would be surprised if you found one with any sort of quality issue.
 
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I found this yesterday and she followed me home! 1969 Marlin 336 100yr anniversary in 30-30. Its in honest shape, not worn out but you can tell its been huntin a time or two. I got it for $269.
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I've got it completely dissassembled now for a thorough cleaning and lube.

Thanks guys
Steve
 
Good price - fair.

FWIW, if the stock medallion's examined closely, you should be able to see that the 100th anniversary year is 1970, not 1969.

If the rifle's SN comes back as 1969, check the buttstock's tang inletting for the correct/matching SN stamped into the wood, to ensure the buttstock isn't a replacement.

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Take a flashlight so you can check the first few inches of the barrel from the muzzle as some people clean the 336s from the muzzle and will wear the rifling.
 
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