Marlin is Back, What’s New? | Gun Talk Radio

Published on June 2, 2022
Duration: 12:48

This segment from Gun Talk Radio discusses the revival of Marlin firearms under Ruger's ownership. Eric Lundgren from Ruger Marlin details the extensive process of acquiring and re-establishing manufacturing, highlighting the challenges of integrating old designs with modern CNC machinery. The focus is on the improved fit and finish of the new Marlin rifles, particularly the SBL and Trapper models in .45-70, and future plans for the 336 platform.

Quick Summary

Ruger's acquisition of Marlin in November 2020 led to a significant effort to re-establish manufacturing. Challenges included adapting older designs to modern CNC machinery. New models like the SBL and Trapper in .45-70 boast improved fit and finish, with future plans for the 336 and 94 platforms, all under rigorous quality control.

Chapters

  1. 00:04Intro: Gun Talk Radio Segment
  2. 00:17Doug Koenig on Marlin's Appeal
  3. 00:32Eric Lundgren from Ruger Marlin Joins
  4. 00:47Ruger's Acquisition of Marlin
  5. 01:03Asset Relocation Challenges
  6. 02:03Recreating Manufacturing Processes
  7. 03:04Integrating Old Designs with New Tech
  8. 04:05First Release: Marlin SBL
  9. 04:36Threaded Barrels & .45-70
  10. 05:15New Model: Marlin Trapper
  11. 05:32Trapper vs. SBL: Weight & Size
  12. 05:56Production Strategy: Multiple Models
  13. 06:46Demand for Lever Actions
  14. 07:07Resurgence of Lever Action Rifles
  15. 07:40What's Next for Marlin?
  16. 08:51Future Plans: 336 Platform
  17. 09:54Future Plans: 94 Platform
  18. 11:04Focus on Quality Control
  19. 11:21Addressing Past Issues (Canted Sights, Feeding)
  20. 11:47Cosmetic Quality & Inspection
  21. 12:06Future Projects: Semi-Auto Levers
  22. 12:17Closing Remarks

Frequently Asked Questions

When did Ruger acquire Marlin Firearms?

Ruger's acquisition of Marlin Firearms was finalized in November 2020. The process of moving assets and re-establishing manufacturing began immediately thereafter, presenting significant logistical and engineering challenges.

What are the key new Marlin rifle models available from Ruger?

Ruger Marlin has released the SBL (Stainless Big Loop) and the Trapper model. The SBL features a stainless finish and threaded barrel, while the Trapper offers a shorter barrel for enhanced maneuverability, both chambered in .45-70 Government.

What challenges did Ruger face in reviving the Marlin brand?

A primary challenge was integrating Marlin's older firearm designs with modern CNC manufacturing processes. This required recreating production methods to ensure precision and quality, as older designs weren't built for current automated systems.

What is the future product roadmap for Ruger Marlin?

Ruger Marlin plans to reintroduce the 336 platform (chambered in .30-30 and .35 Remington) next, as it shares production lines with the 95 platform. The 94 platform caliber guns are further down the timeline, with potential release by year-end or early next year.

How is Ruger ensuring quality on the new Marlin firearms?

Ruger has implemented stringent quality control measures, including detailed inspections by multiple individuals to address past consumer complaints like canted sights and feeding issues. Cosmetic imperfections are also meticulously checked and corrected.

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