Thanks Nem
Armed Bear,
I suppose a TDS (take down system) is sort of like a trapper model, AFAIK the 16" is the shortest39 Marlin made, around 1984 - 1994'ish?
I shot it today, had quite a few FTFire. I tried using Winchester Xpert, Federal bulk pack, and Remington Golden Bullet as well as Remington GameLoad (same thing?)
The Winchester was the worst. That stuff is crap, but I was hoping this thing would eat anything. It's been sitting in my closet waiting for a gun that's willing to eat it, the Marlin would FTF every single time. Sometimes on 2nd strike, sometimes I just rechambered a new round into the chamber.
The Federal is better, but still a FTF at 20% FTF
The Remington did the best, with a few FTF here and there. 2nd time strike always fired the round.
Now, There seemed to be some stiffness in the action. I lightly lubed the moving parts with oil, then did a quick wipedown. If I chambered a round slowly, the last 1/4 of the action would stick a little. If I gave it a little shove it'll chamber close, but on occasion if I presscheck the round stays in the chamber. seems the extractor tension is kinda weak. So then the only way I can get that round out would be to close the extractor hook over the round again with some force.
If I cycle it quickly, the action wouldn't stick. I can cycle it without noticing the stiffness at the 1/4 cycle. It only happens when I cycle the lever somewhat slowly.
Oh yeah, what's the proper procedure to lube and take down this thing? I didn't receive a manual. I just coated all moving parts with light oil.
Btw, Armed Bear, that octagonal barrel is beautiful! I've always had a soft spot for octagonal barrel lever rifles. What a fantastic find, how'd it shoot?