1894c 357 Won't Cycle

[1894]

Gentleman (& Ladies),

I've been lurking for a long time. You folks have answered so many questions, I'm hoping you may be able to provide me with some additional assistance.

I've got a Marlin 1894c in .357 that will not cycle Double Tap 200 gr. WFNGC Hardcast. The rifle has WWG trigger, follower, ejector, reduced power mainspring and lever catch spring, and I've given it the tune up from marauder.homestead.com. All this was done on the rifle after 100 rounds. It will cycle Remington 180 gr SJHPs as well as WWB .38 specials. It has maybe 1000 rounds through it now, but a lot more dry fires (safety on - see it does have a use

I can sometimes force the 200 gr. rounds through, but end up with marks near the tip of the bullet that indicate it's striking something (the end of the mag tube maybe?). Basically, the lever stops at it's open most point. I can eject the round in the chamber, but can't get the next round in.

I know this rifle model is known to have issues with OAL cartridge length and the round I'm trying is prolly (one of?) the longest factory round available. It looks close to 1/8th longer than the rem 180s, but I don't have calipers...

What can I do to fix this - and what am I likely to give up if I do? If I can make it take the 200's, will I lose the .38 specials? I'm definitely no smith, but I'm not afraid to take it apart. I just need real specific instructions.

If it matters, there is a slight gap between the frame and the front of the bolt when it's in battery. I've seen a couple threads on that subject and mine is pretty small. It came that way when I bought it new.

I patiently await your insight.

1894

 

[pbearperry]

Most likely the 200 grain bullet is a little too long in length to cycle properly.You may have to stick with 180 grains or less.This is a common problem with a lot of rifles.Actually,most folks never use 200 grain bullets in .357 Mag including myself.

 

[1894]

Out of all the possible responses, that's the one I didn't want to hear...

Well, the rounds will function in the GP100. I wonder how horribly they'll hurt out of the SP101

I'm still hoping there's a better answer...

 

[Ed Harris]

You might be able to modify the lifter to pass the longer OAL 200-gr. bullets, but then you introduce the risk of the rifle possibly double-feeding two shorter .38 Special rounds onto the lifter and jamming the gun when you use them. Leave well enough alone. Either seat the 200-gr. bullets a wee bit shorter, if possible, or stick to the 180s that work. My two cents.

 

[1894]

sigh. Oh well, it's a great rifle and a lot of fun as it is. Thanks guys.

1894

 

[Dr. A]

When you are shooting a wide meplat cast bullet, its common to find individual rifle variations. I load a 185gr. wide meplat cast bullet that has a very specific OAL restriction. obviously its possible your gun could still shoot that bullet, but should be custom fit on loading the cartridge. The load would need to be modified accordingly. Since this is a factory cartridge, I'd suggest trying something else out. Perhaps Federal's cast core offering or something similar. Most that load for the 1894C are aware of this limitation. I'm suprised Double tap didn't take this into account. Its known as a short throat. Common in lever actions. You need a shorter OAL.