A Legacy of Lever Action
Historical Context
To truly appreciate the Marlin 336 .35 Remington, it’s essential to understand its roots. The Marlin Firearms Company, a name synonymous with lever-action rifles, has a rich history dating back to the late nineteenth century. The Model 336, a descendant of earlier Marlin designs, emerged as a robust and improved platform. It quickly gained a reputation for its accuracy, affordability, and straightforward operation.
The .35 Remington cartridge also boasts a legacy of its own. Developed in the early twentieth century, it was designed as a powerful round for brush country hunting. It offered a significant step up in power compared to the .30-30 Winchester, becoming a favorite among hunters in areas where dense cover was common. The synergy between the Marlin 336 and the .35 Remington was a natural fit, combining the reliable rifle with a cartridge ideally suited for medium to large game at moderate ranges. Throughout its history, the Marlin 336 has been produced in many calibers, but this combination has become a favorite for good reason.
Form and Function
Design Overview
The Marlin 336 is a study in functional design. It’s a rifle that feels comfortable in the hands, thanks to its well-balanced construction. A typical 336 features a lever-action mechanism that is renowned for its smooth operation. The action is reliable and easy to manipulate, even with gloves. The barrel is typically of a length suitable for maneuverability in the woods. The stock and forend are commonly crafted from wood, often American walnut, giving the rifle a classic aesthetic. The overall weight is manageable, making it a pleasure to carry on long hunts. The rifle also features a tube magazine, which is a hallmark of lever actions and contributes to the rifle’s iconic profile.
Key Features
The sights on the Marlin 336 are typically of the iron sight variety, with a bead front sight and a adjustable rear sight. This setup is simple and effective for quick target acquisition at close to medium ranges. The receiver is also typically drilled and tapped for scope mounts, allowing shooters to customize their rifles with optical sights. Another important feature is the cross-bolt safety, a standard addition in more modern rifles that adds a layer of security. The design focuses on ease of use and durability, making it a reliable companion for the hunter.
Delving into .35 Remington Ballistics
Cartridge Characteristics
The heart of the Marlin 336 .35 Remington is undoubtedly the .35 Remington cartridge. This round is known for its ability to deliver a considerable punch at moderate ranges. It commonly fires bullets ranging in weight, offering a versatile range of hunting and shooting applications. The muzzle velocity varies depending on the bullet weight and the load, but it generally sits in a respectable range, allowing for effective performance. The .35 Remington’s trajectory is relatively flat out to the ranges at which it’s commonly used, which is a clear advantage.
Performance and Effectiveness
The .35 Remington excels in delivering a significant amount of energy on target, making it an excellent choice for medium-sized game. It’s known for its stopping power, quickly and efficiently taking down game with well-placed shots. The cartridge’s performance also benefits from a wide selection of bullet types, from soft-points designed for rapid expansion to tougher bullets that will ensure deep penetration. While it is not a long-range cartridge, the .35 Remington excels in woods and brushy environments where many hunters find themselves.
Shooting and Handling Experience
User Experience
The Marlin 336 .35 Remington is a rifle that’s enjoyable to shoot. The lever action cycles smoothly, allowing for quick follow-up shots if needed. The ergonomics are generally well-designed, with the stock providing a comfortable cheek weld. The balance of the rifle is often appreciated, making it easy to shoulder and swing on target. The trigger pull is typically crisp and predictable.
Recoil and Accuracy
The recoil of the .35 Remington is manageable. It is more noticeable than that of a .30-30, but still, it’s not unmanageable, making it a comfortable rifle to shoot throughout a hunting session. Accuracy is often impressive, with many shooters able to achieve tight groupings at ranges that the cartridge is designed for. The rifle’s open sights are quick to acquire, allowing the shooter to be ready quickly. Whether the hunter is in the thick brush or standing still, the rifle gives confidence.
A Tool for the Hunt
Hunting Suitability
The Marlin 336 .35 Remington is a superb choice for hunting. It shines in close- to medium-range hunting scenarios, especially in areas with dense cover. The .35 Remington cartridge’s effectiveness on medium-sized game, such as deer, wild hogs, and black bear, makes it an excellent choice for a wide range of hunting applications.
Practical Applications
The choice of the .35 Remington combined with the 336 is a wise one because it has deep-seated strengths when hunting. It gives the hunter the chance to use a fast, potent bullet. The short and compact design of the rifle makes it easy to maneuver in the woods. The reliability of the lever action ensures that the hunter will have a follow-up shot available if needed. Hunters have long known about the effectiveness of the 336, with many stories of hunts and success.
Weighing the Advantages and Disadvantages
Pros
The Marlin 336 .35 Remington boasts a strong list of pros. It’s a reliable and rugged rifle built to last. The .35 Remington cartridge delivers effective performance on a variety of game. The lever action is fast and fun to use. The rifle is relatively straightforward to operate. The classic design carries with it a sense of nostalgia. The Marlin 336 is also often found at an attractive price point, making it a good value for the money.
Cons
However, there are also things to consider. The effective range of the .35 Remington is shorter than that of some other cartridges. The recoil is present and needs to be considered. The rifle can be slightly more bulky than some modern designs. Accessories and aftermarket options may be more limited than with some other rifles. Newer production models are harder to find.
Compared to Other Options
Alternative Rifles
When considering the Marlin 336 .35 Remington, it’s helpful to compare it to other rifles. The Winchester Model 94 is another iconic lever-action rifle, but its .30-30 chambering offers different ballistic characteristics. The Marlin 336 in other calibers, such as .30-30 or .44 Magnum, provide alternative choices for the hunter. If the hunter prefers a bolt action, there are other cartridges in that category that have similar power. The best choice is often dependent on the intended use and the hunter’s personal preferences.
Maintaining Your Marlin
Care and Cleaning
Proper maintenance is essential for keeping the Marlin 336 in top condition. Regular cleaning after each shooting session is a good practice. It helps remove any powder residue or debris that may be inside the barrel. The lever action mechanism should be lubricated to ensure it cycles smoothly. The stock and other wooden parts can be preserved with oil. Storing the rifle in a secure and dry location will help prevent damage. Taking the time to maintain the rifle will extend its life and preserve its beauty.
Final Thoughts
Overall Assessment
The Marlin 336 .35 Remington is more than just a rifle. It’s a classic, a symbol of American heritage, and a testament to the enduring appeal of the lever action. It is reliable, effective, and a joy to shoot. The .35 Remington cartridge provides the right balance of power and range for a large range of hunting applications.
Whether you are a seasoned hunter or a newcomer to the sport, the Marlin 336 .35 Remington is well worth considering. It embodies the best of lever-action design with the stopping power of a cartridge that is effective for medium-sized game. This timeless combination is a testament to the lasting appeal of a well-designed firearm and the hunter who appreciates its value.
