Marlin 1894CSS project (traditionalist beware!)

[Domino]

I finally got my Marlin 1894CSS in .357 Magnum that I have been drooling over for some time. I have fitted it with an MPI synthetic stock and an XS Lever Rail with sights and it goes great with my GP-100. I fitted the and painted the stock with Rustoleum bed liner for a grippy but comfortable texture. I was going for a sort of all weather, do-it-all, utility/survival rifle. I realize that this is an expensive project that many would not find a use for but it is a hobby for me and I have enjoyed creating something non conventional. So far I love it and hopefully I will be able to get it out and shoot it next week and see how it shoots. I am hoping it shoots my hot 158g JSP rounds well.

 

[highorder]

I like it, but it looks like it needs a trip to the bead-blaster for a matte finish.

Nice work. Optics in the future?

 

[Heavies]

I think that this would be a good, low maintenance, weapon for if the SHTF. Stainless, synthetic stock, rail for accessories, How can you go wrong?

 

[Heavies]

I think that this would be a good, low maintenance, weapon for if the SHTF. Stainless, synthetic stock, rail for accessories, How can you go wrong?

 

[tubeshooter]

That looks ready for bad weather. I mean, totally ready!


I only put a Skinner rear and front on mine. You'll love yours, I'm sure... congratulations!

 

[yakkingallover]

As a lever purist, much like your title states I have my reservations. But as someone who builds hot rods and such for a living I want that rifle next to all my wood and blued levers. With a scout scope or red dot that would do it for me. You really built a very nice rifle there. I normally dislike synthetic stocks and stainless. But that is sexy...

 

[ArtP]

I really like it. It's nice to know that I am not the only one who thinks these Marlin lever guns are a great utility/protector rifle. I find them just as effective if not much classier than the AR platform

I just bought a "normal" one in 44 mag and hope to get a matching ruger revolver to accompany it. I chose the larger caliber to put some meat on the table as well.

 

[MCMXI]

I have the same rifle and revolver too (also a 3" GP100 and a 4" stainless Python) but I'm shooting MBC 180gr hardcast bullets in front of lots of H110. Is the MPI stock well made and does it require lots of fitting? My upgrades include the following:

Wild West trigger
Wild West bear-proof ejector
Longhunter titanium firing pin
Longhunter hammer spring
Longhunter stainless magazine spring
Longhunter stainless magazine follower
XS Lever Rail
XS ghost ring sights

As you say, not a cheap hobby but SO much fun!! A Marlin '94 in .44 Mag will be next. I have a '94 in 45 Colt to go with a bunch of revolvers that I have chambered for the same cartridge ...

 

[CTPhil]

As a traditionalist, I expected to be a little put off, but that gun is awesome! Well done.

 

[Kentucky-roughrider]

I have to agree with CTPhil 100% and I am also a traditionalist

 

[Domino]

Thanks for all the feedback!

1858, The MPI stock is very well made and it took me about 2 hours to fit it with a flat file, drill, and a good eye. Too me, it was worth it to others probably not.

I will look into some of your other upgrades though, it sounds like you have a great combo as well.

As far as optics go, I am thinking that a Weaver V3 (compact 1-3X) with quick detachable rings would be suitable but for now I am going to leave the irons on it.

 

[Armored farmer]

Fist <bump> to Domino....
I like it too, well done.

I would be interested to know what glass you decide to use.
I have an 1894c to go with my .357 handguns also.
What about a sling and ammo carrier??

 

[ArtP]

I chose a Nikon Monarch in 1.5-4.5x20. It comes in at only 9.9 ounces.

$170 at natchez shooter supply.

 

[Russ Jackson]

I am ok with it but I would put a real butt pad on it instead of the slip on...Russ

 

[essayons21]

+1 to a bead blast finish. As a no-frills survival/SHTF rifle i wouldn't want something that purty and shiny. A nice satin matte finish would complete the look.

Oh and a battery free 1x optic.

 

[Cosmoline]

Why the recoil pad?

 

[chunk]

i kinda like it

 

[Sheepdog1968]

It's a beauty. The only thing I really don't care for is the recoil pad, especially considering it's caliber. If you have some extra money to spend, send it off to Jim Brockman (others do it as well) and get the barrel and mag tube chopped down to 16.5" or so if you want a carbine. How about have a saddle ring put on it? That way you could use a one point sling.

Or, do nothing but shoot it a lot.

Any way you look at it, you have a really nice set up.