How well can you shoot with a Marlin Model 60 with iron sights, stock trigger?

29 March 2011, 15:08

Was practicing shooting prone with my Marlin Model 60 at 50 m, using the iron sights. I was using Indian bullets and no jacket and sling. I couldn't get the rifle to group. There were five shots separated by an inch from each other.

With a target rifle I could do less than half inch groups. Scoped, my rifle put five shots within an inch off a bench rest. The trigger is still as awful as it was 20 years ago.

I am wondering whether I should sell it and get a BRNO but the Marlin has been an old buddy and I am emotionally attached to it.

What do you gentlemen think?

29 March 2011, 21:14

swampshooter

Most Marlin #60's shoot very well. I'd try some different ammo before I gave up on it. The trigger can be worked on by someone who knows what he's doing.

31 March 2011, 12:19

chaunfa

Hi Swampshooter,

I have got a file on how to work on the trigger from marlinowners.com it is a power-point by a person called Arrowdodger.
My only worry is that the spring that I am supposed to cut, looks as if it will launch itself to Mars the moment I do so.
The last time I was shaking while putting the blowback unit together again.
Looks like I will venture into this once my nerves have calmed down.
Am also going to get some Lapua rounds soon.
Regards,
Chaunfa

04 April 2011, 09:14

TomP

quote:
Originally posted by chaunfa:
Was practicing shooting prone with my Marlin Model 60 at 50 m, using the iron sights. I was using Indian bullets and no jacket and sling. I couldn't get the rifle to group. There were five shots separated by an inch from each other.

With a target rifle I could do less than half inch groups. Scoped, my rifle put five shots within an inch off a bench rest. The trigger is still as awful as it was 20 years ago.

I am wondering whether I should sell it and get a BRNO but the Marlin has been an old buddy and I am emotionally attached to it.

What do you gentlemen think?

Another vote to try different ammunition; what are Indian bullets? If expense is not too big an issue, try a box of Lapua L, for reference.

I paid a gunsmith to lighten the trigger a little; it's now around 3 pounds, light enough for a plinker. On a previous Model 60, I added a Williams 5D peep sight, very nice setup. I also changed the action screw to an Allen head screw with a big washer under it.

I've seen loose scope mounts on Model 60 dovetails. Burris steel mounts work well.