Two Marlin 336 Rifles - One Is A Clear Winner

Comparing two vintage Marlin 336 rifles. We found one is a clear winner. Check out what we found with the 1950 waffle top that surprised us all.
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[@joeamato3936]

Years ago, my foreman really wanted my Springfield milspec 1911. Traded me a Marlin 336A 35 REM for it. Turns out it’s a 1953 model. First year of the new rifling, second year they were available in 35rem and it is not drilled and tapped for scope mount. I think I got the better end of that deal.

[@johnparrish9215]

The only time I've ever had problems with Microgroove rifling was with cast bullets. However ever since I started powder coating my bullets my leading problems have been eliminated. Ballard rifling still holds a special place in my heart, I love old world cool.

[@eddieb1766]

Before I started casting and powder coating, I shot .312 cast in my microgroove 30-30. Once I started powder coating, my .309 molds work just fine.

[@TargetSuite]

Oh how I wish I hadn't sold all of my bullet casting stuff back in the eighties😒 Being able to coat instead of lube bullets would make it so nice.

[@TargetSuite]

@Eddie B What velocities are you able to get without leading?

[@eddieb1766]

@@TargetSuite I've gone as high as 2000 fps with no issues. I know others who go even faster. I've done it enough to know what I'm talking about. Powder coat changes everything when it comes to cast bullets. kzbin.info/www/bejne/i16tgoCbr6p_ldk

[@Paul-45-70]

@@eddieb1766 , Hi a quick question if I may.I have a 45/70 and I’m using the Lee 405gr mould . One of my friends in the USA said he’d never go back to lube, do you still have to size the projectiles or just use straight from the mould? Thanks

[@davidgreve1081]

Another very well done video !! Always a pleasure to watch the best with the most informative yet so far! Thank You, George for these!

[@TargetSuite]

Thanks David!

[@kenlambeth4113]

Nice Marlins. I would keep both also. But then again I'm known for giving wayward Marlins a forever home.

[@TargetSuite]

Yep, It's going to be hard to part with either one. I've already let too many fine guns slip through my fingers.

[@mikemccollum4521]

Both are great shooters. Thank you, George.

[@TargetSuite]

Thank you Mike!

[@colinniko8574]

i guess Im asking the wrong place but does any of you know of a way to get back into an instagram account? I was dumb lost my login password. I would love any tricks you can offer me!

[@colinashton2949]

@Colin Niko instablaster =)

[@pennsyltuckyden9823]

What a great idea comparing the two different types of rifling.

[@TargetSuite]

It was fun for sure. Thanks.

[@rickwilkinson6942]

Thank you George. I was considering buying a 336 bl and you have convinced me it is a good choice. Great information.

[@claytonkeates2614]

Excellent, Excellent channel. Huge help. I'm new to the Marlin game but I'm a quick study. I've found your channel to be a wonderful resource. I'm a new subscriber. Thank you very much for your submissions. They are both organized and your delivery is quite good!!

[@TargetSuite]

Thank you very much clayton. I really appreciate that, and I appreciate your sub!

[@phillipmarlow5267]

I don't care who you are, peep sights in the hands of a good shooter are still the best.

[@TargetSuite]

Amen! Aperture sights are so much easier to shoot well. They got a bad rap from days gone by from folks using an aperture that was too small for deep woods lighting. Larger peeps are much more common today. They work well in lower light and don't sacrifice much at all in the way of accuracy.

[@randyblackburn9765]

Peep sights were terrible for Me when I was younger as were any rear sight towards the Back of the receiver .I had 20/10 vision and could see some bullets travel through the air after Leaving the muzzle but rear sights too near my eyes were blurry and for some reason peeps were always at the rear or the rifle . But now peep sights help to focus my vision even while wearing corrective lenses

[@lanedexter6303]

@@TargetSuite I learned to shoot on a single shot .22 with large aperture peep and gold, bead front. Hard to beat for quick acquisition and in low light. 👍

[@phillipmarlow5267]

@@randyblackburn9765 Funny you should say that. When I was in training for the RCMP we were using the S&W Model 10 with a 5" bbl. The ammo we were using must have been reloads because when the sun was behind us I could see the round going down range. We normally carried the +P rounds and they were quite a bit hotter. I would always make sure I had the +P stuff for the 50 yrd targets.

[@randyblackburn9765]

@@phillipmarlow5267 I could see slower velocity bullets such as 22lr and even 30 cal carbine . I bought a Universal 30 cal carbine and a 30 rd mag , I could see the bullet traveling from muzzle to target with 2 lines of fire on each side of the bullet , it looked odd but the gun and mag combination jammed so badly I took the carbine back to the gun shop and up traded another rifle , everyone was happy me and the gun shop

[@peggynulsen1365]

Really enjoyed this demonstration. My own 336 is from 1962 and at 100 yrds I can still shoot a 2 inch group with any kind of ammunition. When it's time to sell someone will get a classic that was well loved and cared for since the day it was made. Thanks for your time and expertise.

[@TargetSuite]

Thanks for sharing about your classic Marlin. Sounds like a sweet rifle!

[@billyboy8919]

Beautiful rifles! I really like that waffle top. And thanks for the shoutout! 👍

[@TargetSuite]

You bet! Good luck!

[@back-woods]

Wish the quilty of guns today was as good as them old marlins. I owned a marlin 336 for my first rifle, my dad bought it for me brand new for $200, they sure don't make them like they used to.

[@robertboyd3863]

Mine was like new used, about $40

[@danielconnolly1244]

Thanks again Gorge for a very interesting comparison.

[@TargetSuite]

Glad you enjoyed it! It was certainly a joy to shoot both of those rifles for you guys;-)

[@garyrice6497]

Good job George, as always very informative!!

[@TargetSuite]

Thanks Gary! I always appreciate your comments!

[@TBullCajunbreadmaker]

Cool man. Pretty good shooting. I love the microgroove barrels but I have Marlins with both types of rifling also. I have found that the Ballard shoots more consistently a tighter group than the microgroove. And that is with cast bullets or jacketed bullets. I use a heavy grease in the bottom groove of the cast bullets for my old 1896 Marlin safety rifle and that little bit of heavy grease stabilized every shot afterwards. An older timer showed me the trick to tighten up groups in the old barrels. Enjoyed the show.

[@TargetSuite]

Thanks. One limitation to my comparing accuracy is OES . . . old eye syndrome 😄 Sounds like you've got some great Marlins. Especially that old Safety Rifle.

[@mazkact]

Last year I acquired an unmolested 1950 Waffle top in 30-30 out of Phoenix AZ. Likely had not a full box of ammo put through it. it sure has now. Love the older Marlins. Real good to see another one. Put the target Williams peeps and Lyman target front sight on mine. Shooting jacketed for a while to burnish the barrel then will move to cast for Cowboy Silhouette.

[@TargetSuite]

Wow! What a find! I love the older Marlins too.

[@m2gjam139]

Great video George. My 444 Marlin has microgroove barreling. Some traditionalists frown on microgroove. I reload for that rifle jacketed bullets only. I have used different weights mostly 265gr . But I've never been technical just safe. I just want to hit the mark . You have two great rifles there enjoy them for many years. If you can find ammo or supplies. I'm good in that sense. I haven't been shooting much nobody wants to use ammo.. I switched to archery I'm getting good again in my old age.

[@TargetSuite]

Thanks! Shooters can be a fickle lot. You'll see fickle-ness in spades when I post my video with a scope on that 1959 Marlin😄 Microgroove has been around for 70 years and proven its worth over and over, but folks still speak ill. Go figure! But in fairness, using cast bullets in those barrels requires thought. Btw, I have a few boxes of those 265 grain bullets myself. I'll try them in my 1892 44 Mag first, but in the back of my mind, I may have been preparing for the day when the right 444 Marlin comes up :-)

[@bennettguns3809]

My Marlin 336 .35 Remington is a RC series with full magazine but, mine has a period correct Redfield aperture sight on it. My son and I both took Russian bores in New Hampshire with this caliber back when I was still hunting.

[@TargetSuite]

Thanks for the comment. I tried to get the Redfield sight but they were too expensive and out of the channel "budget". I may still try and get one some day when the pressure is off. Thanks again.

[@bennettguns3809]

@@TargetSuite One pf my problems is never getting rid of anything, I'm a packrat and been into firearms forever.

[@PatRMG]

A sweet couple of levers! My new one is a 16" with the micro groove barrel, good for a 178 yard heart shot on a whitetail.

[@TargetSuite]

Awesome! That's reaching out there! That was a 30-30 right?

[@PatRMG]

@@TargetSuite Yeah, it likes the Federal Fusion 150 grain 30-30.

[@terryschiller2625]

Hi George, those are two beautiful rifles. I sure would have a hard time selling either. LoL I would keep both due to the difference with the waffle top. Seeing both those 35 makes me wish I still had mine.

[@TargetSuite]

Hi Terry. I will probably keep both. I just put a scope on the 1959 model. I'll post a vid about that in a few weeks. But for recreational fun, the waffle top and peep sight will get a lot of attention.

[@jerrymartin5100]

My favorite caliber of all time, and also my very first center fire rifle caliber.

[@TargetSuite]

I love it too! It deserves more attention.

[@stevedoran3887]

Ive been been experimenting with my late 70s vintage .35 Rem 336 using .357fmj 158gr bullets using .357 mag loads. great fun at 50 yards, easy on the shoulder great fun, surprisingly accurate, not so much at 100 yards.

[@TargetSuite]

I think great minds think alike. I have been thinking about that as well and bought some 160gr non-gas check bullets from Montana Bullet Works for that purpose. You'll see those in an upcoming video.

[@johannesvanhoek9080]

Another fun video 👍 , that was really cool getting a fantastic gift like that from your wife and son 😊 , doesn’t seem to be a big difference in accuracy between the two, even though the 1950 marlin apparently has a slightly larger bore . I guess George like one of the other comments , you could powder coat or just look for another and sell the one that you have or say To yourself , that the accuracy is close enough and not to even worry about it ! Either way it was a really good video👍👍👍👍👍

[@TargetSuite]

Thanks Hans! I am blessed all the way around! And you are right. If there is a difference, it is very small.

[@edwardweiszbeck1649]

Thanks for this labor intensive video you made for us. 👍

[@ernestwatson6342]

Awesome. Really love the info.

[@TargetSuite]

Thanks for watching! I really enjoyed making that old video.

[@ronlafitte6864]

Great video!! Thank you for spotlighting the 35 Remingtons!!! They are my all-time favorite 336 Marlin calibers. But I know I don’t need to convince you of that!!! 😎

[@TargetSuite]

You know I just love the Marlin 336 in all calibers including the 444 Marlin and the 1895 variation. But the 35 Remington is just really nice. It carries a lot of authority without a lot of recoil.

[@ronlafitte6864]

@@TargetSuite For sure! If I’m carrying one rifle, why not use one with that extra power? A 30-30 is fine but fewer game animals will get back up from a shot of 35 Remington. They are just awesome!

[@douglassnyder1292]

Excellent presentation and info gathering. Beautiful rifles too. I shoot Cowboy Lever Action Silhouette matches and the word on the street is to stay away from micro groove if you intend to shoot lead. They tend to clog up. Fine with jacketed bullets. I recently picked up a 1948 336A in 30-30. It has the Ballard rifling, and I feel very lucky to have found it. It is very accurate to 200yds. Oh, and nice shooting, sir.

[@TargetSuite]

@Douglas Snyder Check back tomorrow morning. I'm posting a new video with the 1959 336 and I will talk about future plans to address that cast bullet myth(?) about micro-groove rifling. It will go public at 4:30am central time tomorrow.

[@Nick-wn1xw]

The "word on the street" is usually stupid. Success with cast depends on size and hardness.

[@banyarola2577]

I have a Marlin 336 .35 Micro Groove that I purchased in the early, I believe, 70's, brand new from Caldor Dept store in NY state.. Get this, I paid $ 89.00 for it back then on sale.. One of the best rifles I own and took many deer with it. I still have the original receipt but it's not handy now to verify the exact year I bought it.. It still looks new and hardly a mark on it... One other thing, you may be mistaken about the grip cap because mine has a black grip cap with a white spacer...One more thing.. The tubular magazine on mine is the entire length of the barrel. Thanks for the vid....It brought back memories...

[@ChuckTruitt]

An excellent video, I definitely enjoyed this one. I had been shooting since I was a kid in the '50s, but really first appreciated the peeps at Parris Island on my M14 in the Fall of '67. -Gunny T sends

[@TargetSuite]

Thanks! Glad you enjoyed it. I was on the other coast three years later hating the M16. I was at Fort Ord. Did you get to spend some warm evenings in S.E Asia?

[@ChuckTruitt]

@@TargetSuite About two years after I joined the Corps, I went to Nam as a Corporal. Spent 14 years in the Corps, before The Lord called out to be a missionary... 37 years overseas as a missionary. I was on Ft. Ord in the early 70s - attended Language school in Monterey.

[@TargetSuite]

Thats a great life story. I spent a year in Vietnam also. But I had it easy. Good memories.

[@bulletprooftactical9842]

Good video! Thanks

[@leegeddyfan]

I own a nice 1950 Marlin 335A in 35 remington myself, i dig those pre-'53 models

[@TargetSuite]

Awesome! I tried to find an "A" model, but they are pretty scarce. Thanks for the comment!

[@richjustrich8043]

Mine is a 1959 marlin 336 also and with a Williams peep site also. My favorite gun.

[@TargetSuite]

That's great! That almost qualifies as "great minds think alike"😄

[@beepbop6697]

Beautiful rifles!

[@TargetSuite]

Thanks! Yes, they have a few "warts" but for their age, they are in great shape.

[@InGratitudeIam]

Nice shooting, George! I suppose you could get a custom mould made for the 1950 rifle. Congratulations on having those in your collection!

[@TargetSuite]

Thanks Tom! For now, I'll just stick to jacketed recreational rounds with the 1950 model. Tuesday you'll see the 1959 version in a micro-groove/jacketed bullet "review". It's interesting. And I have already started gathering data and bullets for a cast bullet performance review in that same rifle. Stay tuned.

[@michaelhedgepeth5106]

Thanks for the Great info !

[@TargetSuite]

You are welcome. It's fun to share a pair of classics like this with you guys.

[@michaelhedgepeth5106]

@@TargetSuite Yes Sir 👍

[@Mikejohnson-wr2hd]

Wow, big difference on the bore diameters. I wouldn’t have expected that .

[@hutehund9519]

Two enthusiastic thumbs up for this one, George. I can’t get enough of my first and still favorite deer rifle/caliber. It’s never let me down in 50 years in the PA deer woods. Congrats on that pair of beauties. Much appreciated.

[@TargetSuite]

It was really a pleasure to be sharing those two rifles. They are both going to make some memories!

[@45oneshoystop]

I enjoyed the video, thanks. I have a few Marlins that I've been collecting since 1969. My first is the 336 C in 35 Rem. It has the gold medallion for the 100th anniversary of Marlin. I also have a 1950 336 in 30-30. and another in 32 Win Special. Both are great shooters. I also have a 22, 25-20, and a 45-70. I'd like to get a 38-55 someday but they are hard to find. I didn't start out collecting, it just happened. I like Marlins.

[@TargetSuite]

Sounds like you have some greater ones. I'd like a 38-55 also!

[@45oneshoystop]

My 32 Win is a 1949 model. The 22LR is a 1955, found it at local gun shop. The 25-20 and 45-70 are from the mid 90s. All great guns. Bagged a few deer with the 35 Rem. It's a one shot show stopper. Keep the great videos coming.

[@TargetSuite]

👍👍

[@mrdinme.4768]

Yes sir, I have a warm fuzzy spot for my 336SC as well. I used to hang out in , Marlin Owners forum. I always heard that the ballard was better for hard cast lead, that micro-groove fouled, until recently a few guys were powder coating I think, cut the fouling down, maybe I got it all backwards? Its been a bit since I logged into MO. I have been looking at replacing my lever 30/30, what the heck happened, prices are nuts, lol not the time to buy I guess.? Nice video, thanks God Bless

[@TargetSuite]

A lot of guys swear by the Ballard rifling. But I think most are in the, "Size your bullets .002" over Grove size, mate the right alloy to the right speed, and micro-groove works great" camp. I'm going to test that theory.

[@dogbone1358]

Very interesting and informative video George. It’s just me, but I could never warm up to the Marlin’s side ejection port. Esthetics on my part.

[@TargetSuite]

Definitely different. I think of my Winchesters and Marlins as kids. Each have there strengths and weaknesses, but I love them both 😄

[@stanley8896]

Awesome, video...My uncle purchased a 336 in 35 rem. In 1950, from Sears and Roebuck Chicago ILLINOIS. I was born in 52, my dad and uncle Moe Had 450 acres located near a little town of Gay Michigan. In 64, My uncle Loaned it to me.My first deer season, in remote Upper Peninsula. 12 years young bagged a massive spike (lol ) That morning...That Christmas, that Marlin 35, was under the tree. My father bought it from my uncle. I'm 69 Still using it..Had it drilled, adding 3x9 Redfield, a sling..Awesome rifle. My serial # 3320. Not sure of manufacturing date, 48 one would think...

[@TargetSuite]

Great story. Thanks for sharing. Dates are indicated by the letter preceding the numbers. 1948 was E, 49-F, 50-G, 51-H, 52-J, 53-K.

[@dominicemole6546]

Another great video, George. Great idea slugging the barrels. I have always thought that the advantage of the Ballard rifling was that it would handle cast bullets better. I hadn`t considered the difference in bore diameters being a bigger influence. Too bad there is such a difference. I would have liked to see a comparison of the Ballard and Micro-Groove shooting cast bullets. Great job, I`ll have to check out that Patreon Program.

[@TargetSuite]

Thanks! If I can find some larger diameter bullets, I will make that video you hoped for;-) Btw, I don't know that the oversized groove diameter (I called it bore diameter more than once) was common in the early 336's. Mine may be an anomoly.

[@dhunterer444]

I think that the center fire microgroove controversy is an odd thing as Marlin claimed that it's easier on lead bullets that it doesn't deform them as much as Ballard does. It sure works for .22lr. My Marlin 44 Mag & 444 Marlin shoot cast well but do like gas checks better as I always had to get the highest velocity that I could 😁

[@TargetSuite]

👍👍

[@heyitsaluigi]

Great rifle & Caliber! My 1st Maine BrushGun...tagged 3 before I traded...(kicking my own ass for doing that🙃) Great Vid!

[@TargetSuite]

Thanks! Yet to draw blood with either one, but maybe next year. Btw, don't feel alone in your "self discipline". I've let a few great ones slip through my fingers over the decades. ;-)

[@bushcraftnorthof6012]

Nice comparison. I only shoot jacketed bullets so far in all my centerfire Marlins. I have a mix of Ballard and Microgroove, and they all shoot well. Had the 30AS in .30-30 out last night shooting ptarmigan at -40C. Headshots at white birds on snow. Marbles sights help. That old gun fits me like a glove. I have some catching up to do on your channel. Should do that next week while I work away from home! Take care, and hope you’re feeling better soon.

[@TargetSuite]

Good to hear from you again. I've checked the temps in Yellowknife a few times while we were suffering single digit and low teen temps (f) here in Houston. I think most of us wish you had kept that cold air up north😉 Our homes an infrastructure just aren't designed for days of freezing temps. Enjoy those birds. Bet they are tasty!

[@bushcraftnorthof6012]

@@TargetSuite the birds make a lovely pie. Hope things get back to normal there soon. We are having a heatwave this weekend. Only -20C! Going camping. Take care.

[@TargetSuite]

Sounds like fun!

[@sharpnr445]

hey George , thanks for the great video. For that leaking roof- Eternabond tape-

[@cjchristian3825]

Very cool, I recently got a 1977 336 in 35rem. Shoots great, just waiting on a sizing die to be able to start Handloading for it. Components are difficult to come by. Also, there’s nothing better than a Christmas rifle, my last one was a couple of years ago...a 357 Winchester 1892, a treasure for sure.

[@TargetSuite]

@CJ Christian I just got a .357 Winchester 1892 also! It's less than three weeks old. I'm posting a video on that soon! But I'm trying to work out a heavy cast bullet selection first because the fast twist of the Miroku .357 will stabilize them and that puts it way ahead of the Rossi's with their 30" twist .

[@cjchristian3825]

@@TargetSuite looking forward to it, I’ve shot buffalo bore 180’s hard cast, as well as other common factory loadings...haven’t yet hand loaded for it...but this rifle shoots, well. Really makes the .357 shine and extremely accurate from a bag

[@TargetSuite]

I believe BB uses Cast Performance bullets and I just ordered 100 of the 180gr bullets from them. Can't wait!

[@guychamp6029]

Great info.

[@TargetSuite]

Thanks!

[@lessage760]

thanks for the vidio sir this was great fine caliber

[@TargetSuite]

Thanks!

[@bigben9379]

Nice shooting. You one- holed the first two shots, that is when you stop and grin for a minute . That is a shooter. Neither was a slouch. I looked at one recently but there was a bit of movement back and fourth in the forearm.

[@garyquail2347]

I still have my Marlin 336 since I was 13 years of age and it is still reliable to this day still use it for hunting wild pigs and occasionally deer I would not trade this rifle in for anything that's out there today!

[@TargetSuite]

Hang on to that rifle. It sounds like a treasure.

[@garyquail2347]

@@TargetSuite I still am planning on it it's one of the best hunting rifles that I ever have.

[@garyquail2347]

@@TargetSuite I've now just recently picked up a Marlin model 39a lever action which shoots 22 long rifle ammunition and it's a honey to shoot and it's very accurate I'm now planning on keeping this one for my target practice activities.

[@FindersKeepers88]

Nice work

[@TargetSuite]

Thanks!

[@jedermachtigallmighty7345]

Congratulations for those beautifull pieces! Peep sight rules!😎👍🥇 And remember that exist some Countries that not allow to own more tan one gun or two🙊

[@TargetSuite]

Thanks! And yes, even with all that is going on, we are still blessed to have firearms freedoms.

[@jedermachtigallmighty7345]

@@TargetSuite stay safe and STRONG! 😎👍

[@TheDeerhunter42]

Man I love when you get out the marlins. That's what I love. I've got a few nice ones my favorite is my 2002 marlin 1895gs 45/70. No maybe my 1975 marlin 1894 44mag. Man its so hard to choose. I know this might be hard to believe. I reload for all my guns. My 2006 marlin 336w 3030 shoots a .394 " 4 shot group. I've done it a few times when I do my part. But! The barrel has to be very CLEAN. I couldn't believe this gun shoot that good. Its hard to believe it. But its just a tack driver. At 100 yards. Keep these videos coming.

[@TargetSuite]

You've got some nice ones! Check out next Tuesday's video. I've put a scope on the 1959 model and done some accuracy work!

[@TheDeerhunter42]

@@TargetSuite sounds good. Looking forward to it. I like all the videos on lever action guns. I really think its a hit when you do videos on say 44mag vs 3030 kinda stuff. Just makes for good videos.

[@davidavery5617]

This is a dam good video,thanku for sharing with us,god bless brother

[@thehoneybadger8089]

I picked up a 35 Remington 336A (24" barrel) two days ago, that was made in 1950, the year I was born. 1950 was also the year Marlin added the 35 Remington to the 336 line. I added a Williams 5D receiver sight and look forward to getting to the range tomorrow. Microgroove barrels appeared in Marlin's 22lr rifles about '53-'54, but I believe it wasn't until about '56-'57 before they appeared in the 336.

[@TargetSuite]

@TheHoneyBadger I tried to find an A model, but gave up last fall and bought this SC instead. Maybe some day. In the meantime, I'm jealous😉

[@Jeff-sl8xz]

​@@TargetSuiteI've got a Marlin 336A deluxe in the 30-30 manufactured in 1949 24" bbl factory checkering I think it was the second or third year of the 336 they made the model 36 before that wich was the next one after the 93

[@NW_Ranger]

Bullet casting molds of any specification can be made and are obtained through custom bullet mold manufacturers, and they are not expensive. Maybe $100 or so, for single cavity mold. Cast .001 to .002 over groove size for the 1950 model. The cast bullets are then sized thru two different bullet sizing dies. Also, each bullet sizing die is to the specs of each rifle’s groove size. Then add a gas check. All easy to do.. In addition, one could go with paper patched bullets. Paper patched bullets can made to just about any spec. one may want. Paper patched bullets are capable of being cast soft enough for good bullet expansion (think hunting). And, because of the paper patch the bullet can be driven to the same velocities as copper jacketed bullets in the .35 Remington cartridge. I do this stuff with my vintage guns. It is all simple and low tech stuff. Rifle shooters have been doing these things for a very long time. We are still doing it. It is not broken... no need to fix it.

[@Oculus729]

Great, great sights.

[@TargetSuite]

Amen! I've kept the one on my 1950 Marlin and really enjoyed shooting it like that. But the one from 1959 I have loaded with a low-power variable optic for deer hunting. It has served me well so far.

[@leveractiongypsy1848]

Great video and fellow 35 Rem shooter here. For the ballard rifling thats over standard bore diameter, I'd think if you ordered a custom mold and have it designed to drop at .363 or even just PC ing the bullets to add the extra diameter you'd be good.If you do traditional or tumble lube, get a mold that will drop larger than bore and Lee can custom make a .363 push through sizing die

[@TargetSuite]

Thanks! I've talked to Lee about an oversized "custom" die and for now, they are not doing any custom work. When things settle down, I'll pursue that along with, maybe, just maybe, beginning to cast my own. Whew! There I said it . . . finally! 😄

[@leveractiongypsy1848]

@@TargetSuite I'd visit NOE's website. They make push through bullet sizing dies thats a die body and then the sizing bushings.The bushings are increments of .001 so I'm sure Al can hook you up with what you need. I already had the custom Lee sizer, otherwise I'd wouldve got the NOE. NOE is a great company and Al has personally helped me over the phone when I was starting out. Highly recommended

[@pcupach]

Great comparison of the rifles. The day revealed alott, but the sizing told the real story.

[@TargetSuite]

Hi Paul. Yep. I was surprised to find that bore so out of spec. And yet it still shoots those jacketed bullets well.

[@pcupach]

@@TargetSuite I need to...rather I want to find out the bore of the Henry Big Boy. It would be a good benchmark to know what it is new vs what it is over the life of the gun shooting 1000+ rounds

[@TargetSuite]

I don't think the bore diameter will ever change. But if you slugged the chamber you might see the erosion of the neck over time. That is where a barrel wears out.

[@pcupach]

@@TargetSuite I misspoke, you are correct I meant what you said.

[@WalterWild2]

I had 336 made in 48 and i will never forgive myself for selling it. I got it for $600, what a dope

[@larryalexander4833]

I have a 1952 sc in 35 rem . It had a older steel tube scope on it when I got it. The rifle has lots of handling wear and character marks. But shoots excellent so I left it alone. Sure it could tell some stories

[@TargetSuite]

Sounds like an awesome Marlin! Maybe if we spend quality time with these old soldiers they'll reveal some of their secrets ;-)

[@larryalexander4833]

@@TargetSuite I'm sure mine could . Looking at it it has been on many many hunts . I was surprised when I shot it . Very accurate even out to 200 yes with 150 core locks. I mostly shoot 180 tho

[@callawayken650]

Deer season in Missouri it coming soon. I want to shoot one with the Marlin in 35 Winchester. I will practice in the next week. I am trying to match a handload to the Remington factory load. Except, I will load pointed plastic tipped loads thanks to Hornady.

[@ladybuggunner]

Those are really beautiful rifles. Thanks for another great video!

[@TargetSuite]

Thank you! Always great to hear from you!

[@garybarrere7552]

Drooling I have always been interested in the 35 rem.

[@TargetSuite]

Gary, these are a dream come true for me as well. Btw, I love the fishing pics you post on FB! Jealous!

[@garybarrere7552]

@@TargetSuite the trout quit in my favorite part of the bay, gonna be slow for another month.

[@johngallagher2313]

Either one is a keeper IMO. I agree the Christmas rifle would be tops but getting rid of the other would be hard to do. It seems over size bores are a common problem with all makes and vintage rifles. The Williams aperture sights are just the thing for a rifle such as those.

[@TargetSuite]

Thanks John. I've heard about the overbore issue as well. Just never experienced it. Aside from being a little clunky, the FP sights are great. And cheaper than the Lyman version.

[@Razorback30001]

Marlins are wonderful firearms. I have a Marlin sbl 45-70 and I have a Henry 30-30 sidegate.

[@TargetSuite]

Awesome! Thanks for sharing!

[@curtisharrison4837]

It's a favorite in my cabinet.

[@TargetSuite]

Awesome! I love 'em too. Just bought another one this week for my son. I hope to show it off next Tuesday. Another pawn shop find.

[@paulmoss7940]

I remember buying a .375 marlin new from Davidson's Christmas sale in early 80's for $129.95, And have bought and sold many 336's for 100-200. I saved a few but have recently parted ways with them for silly prices. I still enjoy some JM rimfires ,my bud just talked me out of a great 39. Have a couple .22mags that are minute of squirrel EYE @50yd. Outside of a 10/22, the (

[@brandonrupp5880]

Great information and super easy to listen too. None of the extra bs most youtubers blather on about.

[@TargetSuite]

I appreciate that!

[@4440pvc]

I have a first year 1895 45/70 with the Ballard rifling I wonder how this test would work on the newer 1895s with the micro grove. Mine loves my hard cast 350s and 405s powder coated.

[@TargetSuite]

That would be a fun video . . .

[@scottydouglass1892]

When ever I have duplicate rifles, I put a scope on one, and leave the other with open sights. Then depending on the days mission you have choices.

[@TargetSuite]

Amem! And next week's video will show one of these two great guns with a scope on it. Check back next Tuesday.

[@haroldgodwinson832]

Well, you could try paper patched projectiles in the Ballard.

[@richardfinney3169]

The ballard type rifling has a better seal on bullet to bore , this causes less gas blow by resulting in higher velocities.

[@yankeeastronomer1927]

Just discovered your channel. This is the second video I have watched. So far both were focused around Marlin rifles, my favorite! I appreciate your presentation. I've heard of this controversy about Ballard vs Micro-grove rifling for many years. Because I've had good results with both, using both jacketed and cast bullets, I never made much of it. However, while recently loading some .45acp it occurred to me people have long realized most .45's have shallow rifling, much like 'micro-groove', with even fewer grooves. Yet most .45 users shoot cast bullets as much as jacketed. So why is there no controversy there? I think it boils down to using adequately hardened lead bullets in the shallow grooved guns, at an appropriate velocity. Builders understand you need coarser threaded screws in softer materials because the fine threads won't grip well. I think it is the same with rifling. Love your channel and I look forward to seeing more classic Marlins. Thanks!

[@TargetSuite]

Thanks for watching, and Thanks for the sub! I've got plenty of Marlin content dusted over my 80+ videos.

[@gascheck8151]

For the overbore rifle powder coat the cast bullets and order a custom push through sizer from Lee .002 sizer larger. Problem solved. Powder coating can add . Three to six thou size increase depending on choice of powder. I have a older .35 and just love it.

[@TargetSuite]

That's great to hear. I did contact Lee and they are so busy right now that they are not doing any "custom" work. I guess that would truly make it a .36 Remington, right 😄

[@rayc.1396]

Lead bullet of softish lead with a hollow base and paper patch will give you the shooting you want. It does take loner to prepare the bullets. The other way would be a custom mould from Lee or one of the great small mould makers, they cost more, but will last a life time with proper care. Personnel I prefer shooting cast bullets. Thanks for a great video.

[@TargetSuite]

Thank you, and thanks for the tip.

[@MTwoodsrunner]

well done video, a pleasure to watch...subbed...woods

[@TargetSuite]

Thanks for the sub! And the comment!

[@F84Thunderjet]

Mine was a 336 Texan 35 which I bought in 1953 with micro groove when I was 15. Never thought of hand loading back then so it was all factory jacketed bullets.

[@TargetSuite]

Nice! I hope you still have that rifle.

[@F84Thunderjet]

@@TargetSuite Me too but I sold it in about 1958 and bought a Winchester Model 71, 348 caliber. I still have my 348. I hand load as 348 factory ammunition is hard to find and very expensive. Fortunately, several years ago, I bought several packages of new Winchester unprimed brass so it still puts some thunder in the hills.

[@TargetSuite]

Well I'll be honest, I would prefer the Model 71 as well. What a great rifle!

[@F84Thunderjet]

@@TargetSuite Me too but I wish I still had the Marlin that introduced me to deer hunting in the 1950’s.

[@polymath5119]

For those coming here much later for info, microgroove didn't start in the 336 until 1956. So there were a couple years of drilled-tapped non-waffle top receivers that had standard rifling; 1954 and 1955, if I remember correctly.

[@TargetSuite]

I believe it was 1952 through 1954 that the Marlin 336 have a smooth top that was not drilled and tapped

[@polymath5119]

@@TargetSuite Even better info. Thanks for the correction. A 1955 336 35 Rem followed me home a couple weeks ago. Hopefully the groove diameter won't be too oversized. Seems like I heard about that from some gent in Louisiana/Texas.

[@smitthone]

My 336 is AAXXXXX serial number (=1965) and has microgroove stamped on the barrel...

[@F84Thunderjet]

I owned a Marlin 336 Texan in 35 Remington. I bought it in 1954 when I was 16. It had a straight grip stock similar to a Winchester 94.

[@TargetSuite]

I like the lines of the Texas model. Sounds like from your comment that your "ownership" of that rifle is in the past tense.

[@F84Thunderjet]

@@TargetSuite Unfortunately, I no longer have the Marlin. It was my big game rifle until 1958 when I bought a Model 71 lever action 348 Winchester which I still have. Winchester and Remington no longer manufacture 348 ammunition. However, Winchester makes and sells (intermittently) unprimed 348 brass so I hand load and continue to devastate paper targets with the very powerful 348. I can’t remember when I sold the Marlin but it must have been just prior to my enlistment in the US Air Force in 1959.

[@TargetSuite]

Well, you definitely did good exchanging that Marlin for the Winchester Model 71. I have to ask about your channel name. I understand that you were in the Air Force but that Hawker was a British plane. Is there a connection?

[@F84Thunderjet]

@@TargetSuite Regarding the ‘Hawker Seafury’ name, it was chosen more or less on a whim. It had nothing to do with my Air Force experience. I began flight training via the Air Force Aviation Cadet Program after graduating from college in 1959. My military flying experience was all jet starting with the T-37 and concluding with the F-100D. I chose the name because KZbin rejected my initial name selections as already taken. Hawker Seafury popped into my head probably because I saw one fly at the EAA fly-in at Oshkosh, Wisconsin years earlier in 1982. It was a beautiful vintage prop driven fighter that became operational at the end of WW II in 1945.

[@TargetSuite]

I really appreciate your comments. You are one of the very few that watch my videos that actually have memories of WWII. It's nice to have you!

[@44hawk28]

Unless your jacketed bullets are exceedingly hard, they will obturate and fit the bore. Another point I would like to make, I do not know how bad your hearing already is but if you continue to wear only earplugs your hearing will continue to degrade. The concussive force on your skull still transfers enough sound into your ear canal to damage your hearing. That is why people in the military who thought that ear plugs were going to protect them from concussive force still ended up with hearing loss. Because you have to both wear earplugs and earmuffs to fully protect your ears to the highest possible standard that we currently have. Short of being in the next County when the Firearms go off.

[@TargetSuite]

I appreciate your comment and your concern.

[@flintrichards945]

I have had good results with micro-groove barrels I size two thousands over and use a gas check. One Marlin that I have is very hard to get to shoot cast is my 94 in .44 mag the barrel has to tight spots one under the roll mark and one under the tennon dove tail I tried to fire lap but that didn’t make much difference constrictions are to tight so I just shoot Jacketed and get .430 dia from Everglades Ammo.

[@TargetSuite]

Thanks! I think you answered another question I had. My new Miroku Winchester '92 (.357 Magnum) has a .356 groove diameter. I ordered some Grizzly gc'd bullets at .358 (they don't custom size) thinking I would resize them to .357. But from your comment, .002 oversized may work? Seems like it does for your 44 Mag.

[@chriswood3390]

Put a bushel banner on my 336 in 30-30 . They drop in tracks. Also use the Hornady ammo

[@brianlee6849]

Do you have plans for a RM Marlin? It would be interesting to see how the same configuration 35 Remington RM Marlin performs next to these two with the cold Hammer forged barrel. I'm hoping that they will come out with this same configuration in a 35 Remington 24-in blued with Walnut. I'd love to see the comparison. Are you planning to get any of the other RM Marlins like this new sbl that just came out first? Thank you always enjoy your videos 👍

[@bigal7561]

Can you show the 336 broke down on the older one? Want to see the milling marks. I just love these old Marlins. I lost one to another guy today. He paid a silly amount for it and I know it will never be fired. He bought it for someone's collection and that's fine, but I hate to see one put to bed to never be appreciated. Need more vids from you my friend.

[@TargetSuite]

I'm with you. The old Marlins are great. Thanks for the encouragement. Now you should take that "silly amount" and back-fill that hole with a couple of new old ones :-)

[@snowgorilla9789]

Very interesting

[@TargetSuite]

👍

[@luvtahandload7692]

I am really enjoying your vids on Marlin rifles. For your .362" barrel, I would size down 9.3mm(.366") bullets and let her rip!

[@TargetSuite]

That's a great idea. I appreciate that!

[@savagefp]

Additionally, I removed the barrel band and the gun immediately shoot higher. I shortened the barrel tube and only carried 3 rounds.

[@steveww1507]

The 35 rem is such a underrated round . I have a 336 RC made in 1968 . by the way those are real nice rifle s you have there . Great vid as always

[@TargetSuite]

Thanks! And amen! on the .35 Remington! '68 was the year I graduated from high school. And I know Marlin was making great rifles back then because my dad had a 39a from that period in Marlin's history.

[@tedpfenninger4972]

Wonderful rifles in an excellent clambering. Thanks George. I have trouble holding elevation using a bead front sight. I'm curious If you use a center of mass or 6 o'clock hold?--TPf

[@TargetSuite]

Great question! I use center of mass for my aiming point.

[@robertinscoe2379]

Afternoon George, nice pair of Marlins you have there. If you really wanted to shoot that big bore 35 with cast bullets just order a custom mould for it.

[@TargetSuite]

Thanks! Great idea. I'll keep that in mind in case I start casting again.

[@robertinscoe2379]

@@TargetSuite George the big issue in getting started again is the lack of a good melting pot. Most all are made in China and suck. I still use my old RCBS Pro Melt from the 70s as it has never let me down. I do have a replacement element if it should die. Only God knows how many buckets of wheel weights have been melted in it.

[@TargetSuite]

That Pro Melt is what I had in the 70s as well. Sure wish I still had all that stuff. And the great guns I let go as well. But I guess that's spilt milk or water under the bridge. Right?

[@bengerman9736]

Soooooo many numbers!!!

[@TargetSuite]

Haha! Yep and I just keep repeating myself :-)

[@davidlotti5407]

Marlin came out with Micro Grove rifling officially in 1956 some of 1955 models that were built in the second half of 1955 may of had micro grove rifling

[@TargetSuite]

Thanks David. My off the cuff history was a little off.

[@poppy2394]

Like The New Target Cam

[@TargetSuite]

Thanks. I'm slowly starting to figure out DiVinci Resolve 😄

[@montanamusings]

Very interesting beautiful lever actions. Bore differences, is that unusual?

[@pipedreams57]

Might try using some gas checks for the cast bullets if you like using those. I had a Zane Grey octagon barrel Marlin circa 1972 that was the most accurate shooting rifle I ever owned. Loaned it to a gunsmith friend of mine and it got burned up in a house fire. Damn shame.

[@TargetSuite]

Sorry about your "loss". I shoot several gc bullets. Just haven't found the right one for the 35 Remington.

[@dr.froghopper6711]

Another winner George! Thanks bunches! I envy your shooting setup! What kind of peep site is that? My 1951 is Ballard rifling and the waffle top and could use a good peep sight!

[@TargetSuite]

That is a Williams FP (Fool Proof) 336. They are in stock at MWUSA. It's the cat's meow for the waffle top!

[@dr.froghopper6711]

@@TargetSuite thank you sir!

[@charlesgandee4198]

Well sir I gotta tell ya ,video touched a soft spot . Growing up and to present day I have deer hunted in WV the week of Thanksgiving .This year being my 43 year . Back in the day the entire family and friends hunted with Marlins . Well all but one my grandpa had a94 with peep sights in 3030 he bought brand new and his brother bought the same gun in 32. The rest of the family and friends I’m talking about 8 others and maybe a few more all hunted with 3030 and two were 35 Rem. In all those years I can remember some absolutely amazing shots and a lot of shooting . Those guns were and still are like family .I don’t remember any of them not shooting well . What amazes me is how everyone had their pet ammo. Dad and I always shot 170 grn Federal . Others had their pet ammo . I’m an Avid reloader now and have not shot a factory round at a deer in 30 years it’s just kinda funny now how much stock we put in our choice of factory ammo back in the day shooting open sighted lever guns . Now none of us shoot open sights or factory loads . I load for the whole family and have tuned all those old Marlins with a pet load so to speak . It’s nice to see you interest in the Marlins and your devotion to the old work horses for shure . Very interesting since I can relate to the guns and have shot a ton of them growing up I guess that is why I have 9 of the old girls . Love the videos and keep it real as you are . Love it ,take care!

[@TargetSuite]

I love that family history! Thanks for sharing!

[@armedhippy7685]

The 336 SC is my favorite variation of the 336s. I think you should just keep both of those. :)

[@TargetSuite]

So far so good. Both are cementing a lasting place in my growing fold of lever guns😄

[@elijes]

If you want to shoot cast bullets in the 1950 maybe you could try hollow base. They should seal the gap.

[@TargetSuite]

That's a great suggestion. If I find a good HB bullet, I may give that a try. Thanks!