Marlin Model 336

Lore & Background

The Model 336 is a direct development of the Marlin Model 1893 rifle, which was produced from 1893 to 1936. Based on patents of L.L. Hepburn, the Model 1893 incorporated a new locking bolt system and a two-piece firing pin. In 1936, with minor changes to stock, forearm, and sights, it was redesignated the Model 1936 (soon renamed the Model 36). These earlier firearms featured a solid-top receiver of forged steel and side ejection. Compared to the Winchester 94, the Model 36 was heavier with a simpler internal mechanism and a full pistol-grip buttstock. In 1948, the Model 36 was replaced by the Model 336, incorporating patents of Thomas R. Robinson, Jr., a Marlin employee. Sold under both Marlin and Glenfield brands, it has been in continuous production from 1948 to the present day, currently produced by Ruger Firearms under the Marlin brand.

The Model 336 is distinguished from its predecessors by an open ejection port machined into the side of the receiver. Design improvements include a stronger round-profile chrome-plated breech bolt, redesigned cartridge carrier, improved extractor, and coil-type main and trigger springs. The receiver and major working parts are steel forgings. Its solid, flat-top receiver and side ejection make it suitable for scope mounting. In 1956, Marlin incorporated its proprietary Micro-Groove rifling system, using an increased number of shallow grooves to improve accuracy, prevent gas leakage, and reduce bore fouling. The rifle is designed for easy disassembly; removal of the lever pivot screw allows field stripping of the lever arm, bolt, and ejector. Unlike many lever-action designs, it can be cleaned from the breech, avoiding muzzle damage.

Reader's Guide

The Marlin Model 336 holds a significant place in American firearms history as one of the best-selling high-powered sporting rifles, second only to the Winchester Model 1894 by 1983. Its continuous production from 1948 onward, including a resurgence under Ruger in 2023, underscores its enduring popularity. The rifle's design evolution from the Model 1893 through the Model 36 to the 336 reflects incremental improvements in strength, simplicity, and scope compatibility. The introduction of Micro-Groove rifling in 1956 enhanced accuracy and production efficiency. The Model 336 also served as the basis for numerous variants, including short carbines like the Marauder and Trapper, the youth Model 336Y, and the stainless Model 336SS. It spawned other models such as the Model 375, Model 444, and Model 1895, all using the same receiver and lever-action mechanism. The Glenfield line and store-brand models allowed Marlin to reach mass-market retailers while protecting its specialty dealer network. The rifle's legacy is further cemented by its role in hunting and its adaptability to different calibers and configurations.

Did You Know?

• The Model 336 can be cleaned from the breech, unlike many lever-action designs.
• As of 1983, over 3.5 million Model 336 rifles had been sold.