I too love old Marlins and have had several from 22LR to 45-70, all originals and all made in the 1890s. Have tested them with jacketed bullets against equivalent Winchesters in cals 30-30, 38-55 and 45-70.
Without exception the Marlins always shot tighter groups than the Winchesters, sometimes half the size. One takedown 1893 30-30 would consistently shoot 1 MOA with iron sights and both Win and Rem factory loads.(!)
I've had good luck with the 0.377" Barnes bullets when loaded close to max, even in the 0.380"-0.381" Marlin barrels. Apparently they obturate enough to make good contact.
Regards, Joe
