The Marlin 336 is a legendary lever-action rifle, prized for its reliability, accuracy, and classic design. But even a classic can benefit from some modern enhancements. This guide explores the best Marlin 336 upgrades to boost performance, reliability, and shooting enjoyment. We'll cover everything from simple improvements to more involved modifications, helping you tailor your 336 to your specific needs and shooting style. Whether you're a seasoned hunter or a new enthusiast, these upgrades will help you get the most out of your Marlin 336.
Enhancing Accuracy and Precision: Barrel and Trigger Upgrades
The accuracy of your Marlin 336 is largely determined by the barrel and trigger. These are areas where strategic upgrades can yield significant improvements.
Improving Your Marlin 336's Trigger Pull
The factory trigger on a Marlin 336 can be somewhat gritty and heavy. A smoother, lighter trigger pull significantly enhances accuracy and shot placement, especially for rapid firing. Several options exist:
- Trigger Job: A professional gunsmith can perform a trigger job, meticulously smoothing and adjusting the trigger components for a lighter, crisper pull. This is a more involved option but provides the best results. Expect to pay $75-$150 for a professional trigger job.
- Aftermarket Triggers: Several companies offer aftermarket triggers specifically designed for the Marlin 336. These often come with pre-adjusted components for a lighter pull and improved feel. Popular choices include the Timney and the Ruger triggers. Installation may require some mechanical aptitude, but detailed instructions are generally provided. Costs vary but typically range from $100-$200.
Table 1: Comparison of Trigger Upgrade Options
| Option | Cost | Difficulty | Results |
|---|---|---|---|
| Professional Job | $75-$150 | High | Best Performance |
| Aftermarket Trigger | $100-$200 | Medium | Excellent Results |
Upgrading Your Marlin 336's Barrel
While the factory barrel is generally adequate, upgrading it can improve accuracy and potentially reduce recoil.
- Custom Barrels: Several manufacturers produce custom barrels for the Marlin 336, often featuring improved rifling and materials for enhanced accuracy. This is a significant upgrade, requiring a gunsmith for installation. Expect a substantial cost increase, ranging from $300-$500 or more depending on the manufacturer and materials.
- Barrel Bluing: If you're not looking for a complete barrel replacement, re-bluing can significantly improve the appearance and protect the barrel from rust. This is a relatively inexpensive cosmetic upgrade you can do yourself or have a gunsmith perform for approximately $50-$100.
Enhancing Reliability and Function: Action and Safety Upgrades
The Marlin 336's action is generally robust, but certain upgrades can improve its reliability and ease of use.
Smoother Lever Action:
The lever action is the heart of the Marlin 336. Over time, it can become stiff or sluggish. A few strategies can revitalize this critical component:
- Lubrication: Regular lubrication with a high-quality gun oil is crucial for smooth lever action. Focus on the lever pivot point and other moving parts.
- Lever Action Spring: Replacing the lever action spring with a slightly stronger one can improve lever action speed and reliability. However, this requires careful selection to prevent over-powering the mechanism. This is an inexpensive upgrade and is fairly straightforward to install for those with mechanical skills.
Safety Upgrades
The stock safety on a Marlin 336 is functional but can be improved:
- Aftermarket Safties: Some aftermarket safties offer a more positive engagement and improved ergonomics. These are relatively straightforward to install, and prices vary based on the manufacturer and features.
Enhancing Optics and Accessories: Sights and Mounts
Improving the sights and adding mounting options opens up new possibilities for your Marlin 336.
Upgrading Iron Sights
While factory iron sights are adequate, upgrading them can dramatically improve sight acquisition and accuracy.
- Ghost Ring Sights: Ghost ring sights are popular upgrades that provide a clearer sight picture, particularly in low-light conditions. They're relatively easy to install and offer a significant improvement in target acquisition.
Adding a Scope
Many shooters choose to mount a scope for enhanced accuracy at longer ranges. This requires:
- Scope Mounts: You'll need a high-quality scope mount designed for the Marlin 336. Ensure the mount is properly fitted and securely attached to avoid potential damage.
- Scope Selection: Choose a scope suited to your shooting style and intended use. Consider factors like magnification, objective lens size, and reticle.
Conclusion: Personalizing Your Marlin 336
The upgrades detailed above provide a range of options for improving your Marlin 336, from enhancing accuracy to boosting reliability and adding functional accessories. By carefully considering your individual needs and shooting style, you can customize your rifle to meet your specific requirements. Remember always to prioritize safety and follow all manufacturer instructions when making any modifications to your firearm. Enjoy the process of upgrading your classic lever action!