[WhoKnowsWho]

Anything in particular I should inspect on a used Marlin 336 in 30-30?

[Preacherman]

Check the ejector. Some of these can work loose in the receiver, causing problems. If in doubt, try replacing the standard ejector with a Wild West Guns (http://www.wildwestguns.com/) "Bear Proof" unit - it's rather better than the factory ejector. They also make a worthwhile "Trigger Happy Kit".

Check the magazine tube for dents and dings. If possible, take the end off, remove the spring and follower, and inspect the interior. This will show up any crud, cracks, or problems that may have been disguised from the outside.

Check the lever mechanism itself, preferably by unscrewing it and removing it from the action. If there are any worn parts, this will reveal them. You might like to check out this link (http://www.marauder13.homestead.com/files/Marlin94Fix.html) for an explanation of what to look for.

On the other hand, if the gun's been looked after, it's likely to be just fine. Marlin lever-actions are amongst my favorite rifles. Enjoy!

[mainmech48]

FWIW, you might want to check the headspace, if you have access to gauges, or make the deal contingent on results of test-firing.

I've run into two Marlin 336s that looked great and were priced right that turned out to have excessive HS. One was a 30-30 and the other a .35 Rem.

Test firing after purchase was with factory loads. In both the fired cases showed a bright "ring" near the case head. Running a bent piece of wire up the inside surface you could feel a hitch at that point.

Had to send both back to Marlin for repair before I could shoot them again or resell them in good conscience, which sort of trashed the "bargain" aspect