No. 7
Marlin Model 336
The rugged, reliable, American-made Marlin Model 336 epitomized, and still does, the hunting-specific, lever-action rifle. In fact, if today’s makers were tasked with creating a top-notch, lever-action hunting rifle, many of its features would likely resemble those found on the Model 336 upon its introduction in 1948. The Model 336’s solid-top receiver, trigger plate, hammer, lever, carrier and locking bolts were fashioned from steel forgings for strength, and a lowered hammer, a drilled-and-tapped receiver—a 1956 feature—and side-ejection, as opposed to top ejection on the Winchester Model 1894, allowed for the addition of a rifle scope—acknowledging the trend of using rifle-mounted optics. Improving on its predecessor, the Model 36, the 336 had a round bolt—the first of its type—for greater strength and streamlined appearance, as well as a redesigned carrier and newly designed extractor to ensure reliability. Further, the Model 336 featured a pistol grip stock, blued, exposed metal parts to reduce glare and Micro-Groove rifling (another 1956 addition) for enhanced accuracy. In 1984, to the chagrin of many, a cross-bolt safety was added.
Although little has changed mechanically since its debut, the Model 336 has been fashioned in numerous configurations to meet the diverse needs of hunters. The Model 336XLR, developed in conjunction with Hornady’s LeverEvolution ammunition, extends the reach of this tried-and-true, lever-hunting rifle to previously unimaginable ranges. By virtue of its lineage—tracing back to the 1893—the Model 336 now has the distinction of being the longest, continually produced lever-action rifle. Judging from the 336’s popularity, Marlin could hold that honor for a long time.
