Video—ARTV: Marlin Firearms Today

Published on December 21, 2018
Duration: 9:32

This comprehensive overview details the historical evolution of Marlin lever-action firearms, from their inception by John Mahlon Marlin to modern production under Remington. Expert insights from American Rifleman editors and museum directors highlight key models, technological advancements like smokeless powder adaptation and rifling innovations, and the significant quality improvements implemented since 2013, establishing Marlin's enduring legacy in American firearms manufacturing.

Quick Summary

Marlin lever-action rifles have a rich history, marked by innovations like side ejection and Micro-Groove rifling. While quality faced challenges post-Remington acquisition, significant improvements since 2013 have restored Marlin's reputation for reliable, well-made firearms, particularly notable in their complex actions with numerous parts.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Marlin Lever-Actions Today
  2. 00:03Marlin's Early History & Colt Influence
  3. 00:27First Lever-Action Design: Model 1881
  4. 00:38Marlin 1881 Introduction & .45-70 Capability
  5. 01:10Anthony Burgess's Design Contribution
  6. 01:30Prolific Lever-Action Rifle Series (1885-1895)
  7. 02:03Marlin Model 1894 Features
  8. 02:37Marlin 1895 Action Mechanics
  9. 02:59John Marlin's Vision: Smokeless Powder
  10. 03:15Model 1893 for Smokeless Cartridges
  11. 03:47Model 1893 Evolution: 36 & 336
  12. 04:10Marlin Innovations: Side Ejection & Micro-Groove
  13. 04:40Competition with Bolt Actions (Winchester)
  14. 05:18Micro-Groove Rifling: Pros and Cons
  15. 05:49Ballard Rifling for Big Bores
  16. 05:57Consumer Demand for Big Bore Rifles
  17. 06:17Marlin Guide Gun Design
  18. 06:35Marlin Acquisition by Remington
  19. 07:10Difficult Transition to Remington Ownership
  20. 07:50Remington's New Marlin Quality Improvements
  21. 08:14Marlin's Return to Quality (Remington Era)
  22. 08:55Post-2013 Quality Improvement Details
  23. 09:21Conclusion: Marlin is Back

Frequently Asked Questions

What were the key innovations in Marlin lever-action rifles?

Marlin introduced significant innovations like side ejection, allowing for a solid top receiver which enhances strength and protects the action from debris. They also developed Micro-Groove rifling in 1953, featuring numerous shallow grooves for improved accuracy with certain cartridges.

How has the quality of Marlin rifles changed over time?

After Remington acquired Marlin in 2007, initial production quality declined. However, since 2013, significant efforts in re-tolerancing and re-dimensioning have led to substantially improved quality, smoothness, and reliability in new Marlin firearms.

What is the significance of the Marlin Model 1893?

The Marlin Model 1893, introduced in 1893, was pivotal as it was chambered for smokeless powder cartridges like the .30-30 Winchester. This gave Marlin a crucial head start in the market for modern hunting cartridges, preceding the Winchester Model 1894.

Why did Marlin use both Micro-Groove and Ballard rifling?

Marlin used Micro-Groove rifling for its accuracy with lower-pressure cartridges like the .30-30. For higher-pressure, big-bore cartridges, they reverted to Ballard rifling (conventional rifling) which proved more robust and suitable for these demanding applications.

More General Videos You Might Like

More from NRApubs

View all →