Marlin lever expert needed!

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Fatelvis

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Im looking to buy a Marlin lever rifle/carbine in 357 magnum. I would like one that is drilled and tapped on the left side (opposite the ejection port) so I can mount a receiver sight. I know they offer these, but do they offer one with Ballard rifling, and not micro-groove? If so, what model would I be looking for, and is it going to be an older model? Thank so much- Fatelvis
 
According to there website they come with Ballard rifling now “18.5" with deep-cut Ballard-type rifling (6 grooves)”. They have a solid top receiver and are already drilled and tapped Solid top receiver tapped for scope mount; offset hammer spur (right or left hand) for scope use”. this only aplys if your buying new.

p.s. I am looking into one of them too


Any other questions go here
http://www.marlinfirearms.com/Firearms/1894centerfire/1894C.aspx
 
My 2005 vintage 1894c

Has is tapped on the reciever top, not the side, newer marlin rifles are all tapped on the reciever top. Don't worry thought williams, xs, and skinner all make sites that mount on the top. All 1894's by Marlin are ballard rifled now.
 
There were a few years I believe that had both Ballard rifling and D&T on the side. That would have been at least 7 or 8 years ago
I have not been as satisfied with the top mount peep sights as I was when I hade a nice Lyman side mount. It's worth it to have a gunsmith drill and tap it on the side and get the Lyman sight.
It's a fairly easy task to do yourself.
 
Either of the previously mentioned options would work just fine. Personally, I prefer to have my receiver sights mounted in the traditional manner. IMO, they're less susceptible to accidental damage in the field. I also like the somewhat lower profile and that they more often than not will 'zero' with the stock front sight with plenty of adjustment left over. Most top-mounts will need a taller front sight. Not a big job, I know, and some brands do include the new front in the deal. But often that new front won't work with the hood, and I like the little bit of extra protection and definition it gives.

IMO, it's worth the extra money to have a 'smith D&T two holes if they aren't already there. YMMV; value is entirely subjective. Around here the usual cost is about $20/each. Not cheap, but you have to understand that it takes some time to lay out the location and set the drill press or mill up for the job, which includes making sure that the workpiece is square and level with the tool.

Those holes a quite small, usually either 6x48 or 8x48. The drills and taps are quite fragile and it requires no small amount of care and skill to avoid potentially nasty surprises. If you've ever tried to extract a broken drill or tap from something, you know what I mean. The tools aren't free either, and he has to buy his, too. Personally, I'd rather pay the $40 to someone with better tools and more experience than buy the drills and tap and face dealing with any of the possible problems.
 
Mine is D&T on the side but I put a Marble's tang sight on mine and it is great. With a Merit adjustable peep disc it will easily reach out to 150yards. You have to find one that is right around 2000 or 2001, after Marlin started doing all ballard and before they stopped D&T on the side. IIRC Marlin will D&T for shipping.
 
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