Looking to buy a used 30-30 lever action, what do I look for?

[rockman6]

I like the earlier 60 and 70's marlin lever actions and don't know much about them. Any items to looks for when I check used ones?

Bill

[gregintenn]

Usually, the outward condition of a rifle is telling of the inside condition. Look for buggered screw heads, cracked wood, barrel bulges, make sure the action functions correctly, etc. I've seen some with pretty stiff triggers, but than can be improved. For the most part, the Marlins were built like a tank. If it looks to suit you, it'll likely be fine. I am not aware of any specific weak points commonly found in the 36/336 series. Parts are readily available if something did happen to break, but it isn't common for them to have problems not caused by abuse/neglect.

Edited August 30, 2012 by gregintenn

[Clod Stomper]

The only thing specific to Marlins to look out for is a wear issue commonly called the "Marlin jam".

http://marauder.homestead.com/files/Marlin94Fix.html

I don't know if it's common with the 336 series, but my brother has a .44 mag Marlin with the issue. Which reminds me, I need to fix my brother's rifle.

There will be no way to tell if it has the issue without either cycling ammo through it or disassembling it, neither of which you'll probably be able to done before buying. But if it appears to be lightly used on the outside, it's probably ok on the inside.

Other than that, like Greg said, it should be fine if it looks ok. They really are robust. I'd take a Marlin over a Winchester any day.

Will

[Guest The Dude]

check the cartridge elevator spring as well to make sure it will feed the shells reliably. i bought an old model 94 that had a broken one. 1 out of 5 rounds would feed properly. the rest wouldnt. you'll know its broke when you open the action the plate that raises up will be easily pushed down by hand and sorta flop down to the bottom of the reciever. at least thats what mine did.

[gregintenn]

I'd take a Marlin over a Winchester any day.

I'm with you except for the pre 64 Winchesters. They'll win out over the Marlin in every way. In a newer rifle, I'd go with the Marlin.

[Will H]

I'm with you except for the pre 64 Winchesters. They'll win out over the Marlin in every way. In a newer rifle, I'd go with the Marlin.

+1. Nothing beats the old Winchesters, but the newer Marlins seem better built than the newer Winchesters.