marlin dark series 1895 .45-70 govt lever-action rifle

marlin dark series 1895 .45-70 govt lever-action rifle, the Model 336 is easily distinguished from its predecessors by its open ejection port machined into the side of the receiver. Design improvements include a stronger and simpler round-profile chrome-plated breech bolt, a redesigned cartridge carrier, an improved extractor,⁴ and coil-type main and trigger springs in place of the flat springs used in earlier Marlin rifles.³ Like its predecessors, the receiver and all major working parts of the Model 336 are constructed of steel forgings.³

With its solid, flat top receiver and side ejection of fired cartridges, the Marlin 336 is prime candidate for use with a rifle scope. In 1956, Marlin also incorporated its proprietary Micro-Groove rifling system into the Model 336 and other centerfire Marlin rifles.³ This rifling system, which used an increased number of relatively shallow rifling grooves, cut down production time and significantly extended the service life of machine tooling.⁵ According to Marlin, the Micro-Groove system provides very uniform bore dimensions and a very smooth bore finish designed to improve accuracy, prevent gas leakage, and reduce bore fouling.⁵

The Model 336 is designed to be easily disassembled for cleaning. Removal of the lever pivot screw with a flathead screwdriver, allows field stripping of the lever arm, bolt, and ejector for maintenance.³ Unlike many lever action designs, the Model 336 can be cleaned from the breech, much like a bolt-action rifle.³ This in turn avoids damage to the muzzle caused by cleaning rods and tools.

This beautiful rifle is a continuation of a Limited Edition series that started in 2014 with the Model 336 Limited. This year’s limited model is an 1895 Cowboy and it is a perfect addition for the avid collector – with only 1500 being manufactured. Its 24” octagon barrel and full length magazine tube stay true to its cowboy heritage. And its premium styling features a B-grade walnut stock, an elk in gold inlay on the left side of the receiver and the classic Marlin Horse and Rider on the right side.