I had been looking for an 1894 in 357, preferably a north haven marlin. Watching them go for $850-$1050 on gunbroker, and in questionable shape... Had me looking elsewhere. I had read several bad comments on the new models but had also read that they were improving. Despite that I could not find a new one to get my hands on an inspect for myself. Ultimately I found an 1894 at gander mountains website, used but no details other than in very good condition. I called gander mountain to see if they could provide any details (specifically if it was a jm barrel) but they could not. Since the price was fair ($600) I figured I'd take a gamble, there was a 3 day inspection period so risk was minimal. I picked up the rifle on Friday and as soon as I opened the box I knew it was not a north haven model. It was still in the original box, warranty card, packing and owners manual. I looked it over and it didn't appear to have much use. The loading gate has only a few slight marks from rounds being loaded, stock was in excellent shape as was the bluing. By my estimation, probably less than 50 rounds through it. I took it home and proceeded to go through it and examine it deeper. Stock was ok, small gaps between the metal and wood in the butt stock but nothing to excessive. The buckhorn sight was clearly off center to the right by a significant margin (also leading me to believe it had not been shot much). I tapped it over to center it and cleaned it. I couldn't help but notice all the razor sharp edges. The edges of the lever, the sides of the bolt and frame through which the bolt travels. The action was ok, no where near as smooth as my jm 336cs but it was virtually new, so I figured it would break in. The checkering on the stock was quite serviceable and well done. The bluing was consistent and also well done. Overall I was satisfied with the cosmetics though slightly disappointed in the buttstock fitting but truly not a big deal. It's not a show piece. The trigger is heavy but reasonably crisp, I'd estimate 6.5lbs give or take 1/2lb. After a good cleaning and lube, I was ready for the range. It was very windy today, 25mph winds. The target stand blew over 4-5 times even with weights on the base, ultimately put a piece of concrete on the base only to have the cardboard blow off a time or two. I started at 25 yards using the buckhorn sights (which I hate). Initially 3" left and low I proceeded to dial in and felt comfortable moving out to 50yards. I was using my reloads, 158gr xtp over 7.6gr of unique. Out of the first 15 rounds I had 3-4 cases that would not extract. They were the only failures I had, it's possible the load is a little too hot or the chamber is very tight. I did not experience any other failures besides those 3-4 fte. The day was overcast so visibility was not great but I frequently shot 5 shot groups of 1.5" at 50. Not great, but I was satisfied given the wind, low light and how uncomfortable I was with the buckhorn. I'm reasonable confident I can shrink that to @1" with a good peep (looking at the Williams). The action seemed to smooth up a bit, I only fired about 50 rounds, but it was very enjoyable to shoot. I did get cut while trying to remove some of the cases that did not extract. in the end I am very pleased with the rifle. The only gripe I have is the sharp edges. It may not be a jm but I'd buy again.
Last edited:
