Field Review of the Marlin 336 in 30-30 Winchester

The lever action rifle chambered for the 30-30 Winchester is the classic American gun. While the Winchester Model 94 is what most of us picture when we think about lever action rifles, the Marlin 336 has been a strong competitor over the years for the hearts of the lever action hunter. With Winchester closing the shop doors the Marlin 336 and its many model variations now stands alone as the first choice in lever action hunting.

The Marlin Model 336 is a known commodity in many parts of the deer woods, but I'll review the basics for any of those out there who are not familiar with this gun. The Marlin 336 comes in many models and chamberings based around the standard action design. The Marlin lever action 336 features a tubular magazine that holds 6 rounds in 30-30 Winchester. Due to the tubular magazine stacking bullet against primer only flat nosed bullet loadings can be used in a tube magazine. However, Hornady has introduced a soft pointed bullet that can be used but I have not yet tried it out. The primary advantage of the Marlin 336 over the Winchester 94 was the ability to mount a scope low over top of the Marlin. While Winchester's top opening Model 94 was improved in this area, all older 336's will mount scopes low while the Model 94's may not. The Marlin 336 features a hammerblock safety in addition to other safety features inherit to exposed hammer guns.

The 30-30 Winchester cartridge has stood the test of time for good reason. It is a small and efficient round that seems to take deer in defiance to its ballistics. The 30-30 is a gentle kicker making it ideal for youngsters and other beginners. In reality I have found few situations in the deer woods when the 30-30 wouldn't do the job as well as other more powerful cartridges. In testing the Marlin 336 I choose a couple different 150 grain loads and a 170 grain load. Recoil was no big deal with any of the loads, but I could tell that the recoil from the 170 was a little harder. All three loadings shot into about 1 ½ to 2 inches at 100 yards which is plenty good enough for hunting purposes.

The Marlin 336 feels good in the hands and points well. The Marlin 336 is a sturdy and effective deer hunting rifle that will serve either a novice or expert well in the deer woods. Check out Marlin's full line of lever action rifles to find one that meets your needs.