I had purchased a new standard grade Marlin LC Smith in 1971 for $300 from a local NJ gun dealer. The sidelock was reinforced with epoxy between the sidelock steel and wood which most likely would prevent the common stock splitting problem. My new LC, right out of the box, had enough clearance between the barrels and action to throw a small dog through. Marlin promptly made the repairs under warranty. I sold the gun after its return never having fired it.