What caliber Marlin to buy

[ksmoose]

I am looking at buying a Marlin , but not sure what caliber. I am not sure If I will shoot it much but I need a Marlin. The reason for a Marlin you ask? I have a R92 .357, a Winny 94 .30-.30, 2 Henrys, a .22 and .22 mag. That is why I decided I need a Marlin to even things out. I am watching the auctions and just missed a Marlin 444s.
Any suggestions on what caliber? Some caliber I don't have.

[mr surveyor]

Well, it looks like you have most of the normal "modern" bases covered, with the exception of the .44 mag (and the elusive .444), so as far as Marlins go .... looks to me like you really need a pre-Remington (JM stamped) Marlin in .35. I don't have one, but if I were looking for another Marlin, it would be the 35.


jd

[Ranch Dog]

Kind of depends on what you intend to do with it. I like JD's suggestion of the 35 Rem but I'm a 444 guy at the core so I guess I would have to say get them both!

Not many choices with the 35 Rem, quite a few special run guns of odd configurations but not sure they are worth the money that they now seem to bring. I have a "336D" that is a configured like the Guide Gun/Outfitter. Had an older "SC" which is a "Sporting Carbine" with 20" barrel but sold it. It was pretty worn out.

When it comes to the 444 Marlin, there are all kinds. 18½" barrels to 24". I currently own each end of the models; the 18½" barreled "Outfitter" (444P) and the 24" barreled 444T (Texan).

If you are a reloader, brass for either can be a slow find but it is doable.

The truly unique Marlin chambered in 44 Mag is the 336-44, a full Model 336, not the 1894. Make sure it is in great working order, no problems with the carrier. I had one and used it quite a bit but decided to let it go. No regrets as I was given a crazy price for it in the "JM" buying frenzy.

[ksmoose]

mr surveyor & Ranch Dog,
Thanks for your input. Like I said I am in no hurry and will wait until 1 pops up and catches my eye, Thanks again.

[Archer]

I lucked into a .444 Marlin 24" early twist.
The ammo and brass can be had with a little looking around.
I've managed to stock 240 rounds and I'm looking to get another 100 before the end of the year.
Probably do me for ammo in this caliber at that point.

[Rooster59]

45 Colt in a rifle is a lot of fun and pretty versatile. But that is the more rare pistol caliber to find in a Marlin. A 44mag would be easier to find.

My favorite Marlin? The 1895CB with 26" octagon barrel.

[Ranch Dog]

I had a 1894S in 45 Colt but sold it as I favored the R92 over it.

[Ranch Dog]

Here is one for you, a NIB 308 ME at an great price. This will be gone in no time.

[Coop 45]

for 308 ME.
Don't have one, but seen them used in rifle cal cowboy silhouette. Would make an excellent hunting round.

[Ranch Dog]

Dang, money must be tight! It's still there, thought it would be gone by now.