Marlin 336BL for sale
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Marlin 336BL .30-30 Win. Big Loop Lever Action Rifle, Brown Laminated Hardwood - 70502
Brand:
Marlin
Action:
Lever Action
Barrel Length:
18 1/2"
Caliber:
.30-30 Win
Capacity:
6+1
Finish Per Color:
Blued
Frequently Asked Questions
Marlin 336BL for sale
What year of Marlin 336 to avoid?
Marlin 336s made roughly 2008–2013 are generally considered least desirable, covering the final years of original Marlin production and the first years after Remington's acquisition, when widely reported quality control issues emerged. Check the serial number and look for a JM barrel stamp, which indicates higher-quality pre-transition manufacture.
Why is the Marlin 336 so expensive?
Marlin 336s now cost around $1,200 new, with used models averaging $400–$900 and some exclusive versions reaching $2,400 or more. Production gaps during Remington's bankruptcy and Ruger's acquisition tightened supply considerably. Strong hunting demand and collector interest in classic lever-action designs sustain these elevated prices.
What are the common problems with the Marlin Model 336?
Common issues reported on Model 336s include loose extractors causing misfires (especially in .35 Rem), inconsistent finishes, canted sights, rough actions, and feeding problems. Quality control has declined during certain production eras, particularly in newer rifles. Inspect any used purchase carefully before buying.
How much does a new Marlin 336 cost?
A new Marlin 336 typically costs between $1,200 and $1,320 or more depending on configuration, with an average price around $1,303. Prices reflect Ruger's acquisition of the brand and resumed production in 2022.
Is the Marlin 336 a good deer rifle?
Yes. The Marlin 336 in .30-30 or .35 Rem is well-suited for deer hunting within 150 yards. The lever-action allows quick follow-up shots, both calibers handle whitetail effectively, and at roughly $600 it offers solid reliability and accuracy for the price.
What's the point of a big loop lever-action?
A big loop lever allows easier cycling with gloved hands or thick winter gear. Some shooters also find the larger surface faster for rapid fire. For bare-handed use in mild conditions, it offers no real advantage and can snag on brush or scabbards more easily than a standard loop.
What are the best upgrades for Marlin 336?
Popular upgrades include Skinner peep sights, Wild West Guns trigger kits, Weaver scout scope mounts, and improved loading gates. For hunting, prioritize sights and trigger first, then add optics based on shooting distance. Stock replacements and rail handguards are available for those wanting more modularity.
What distance should I zero my 30/30?
Most hunters zero the 30-30 at 100 yards with iron sights or 150 yards with a scope. If you zero at 150 yards, expect to hit about 2 to 2.5 inches high at 100 yards. Choose based on your typical shot distance and terrain, then confirm at the range.
What is the effective range of a Marlin 336?
Marlin 336 rifles in .30-30 are effective to roughly 150–200 yards on deer with standard ammo, extending to 250 yards with modern polymer-tipped loads and a scope. Beyond that, bullet drop increases significantly. Most hunters stay under 200 yards for reliable accuracy and ethical kills.
How to tell the age of Marlin 30/30?
Check your serial number against Marlin's production date charts, available online and in Brophy's reference book. To find the manufacturing year, subtract the first two digits of the serial number from 100. The Marlin 336 began production in 1948. Contact Marlin directly if lookups don't provide clear results.
What's the best 30/30 round for deer?
For deer, Hornady LEVERevolution 160gr FTX and Federal HammerDown 150gr bonded soft point are top choices. Remington Core-Lokt 150gr or 170gr are proven, affordable alternatives. Zero at 160 yards to maximize point blank range, which suits the 30-30's typical woods hunting distances well with iron or open sights.
How to tell the year of a Marlin 336?
Check the barrel's left side for a two-letter date code—the first letter indicates the month, the second the year. You can also determine the year by subtracting the serial number's first two digits from 100. The Marlin 336 entered production in June 1948.
What is the difference in Marlin 336 models?
Marlin 336 variants differ mainly in barrel length (16.25 to 24 inches), stock material (walnut, hardwood, or curly maple), grip style (pistol or straight), and magazine length (full or half-tube). Caliber options include .30-30 and .35 Rem. Current production typically features 20-inch barrels with pistol-grip walnut stocks.
Which is better, Winchester 94 or Marlin 336?
Both are solid deer rifles. The 336 has a stronger receiver, mounts scopes more easily, and has fewer parts. The 94 is lighter and slimmer. If you want a scope, choose the 336. If you prefer iron sights and a trimmer rifle, choose the 94.
What year is Marlin 336 to buy?
Marlin introduced the 336 in 1948 and continues production today. For used rifles, avoid 2008–2013 production due to reported quality issues during that period. Pre-2008 models are generally well regarded. Current production (post-2020 Ruger-owned Marlin) has received positive reviews. New models run around $600.