Range report Marlin 336 XLR 30-30

[Bigahh]

I finally got to put my Marlin to the test this weekend. I mounted a 1.75x6 Leupold on it, and tried my pet load of 3031 behind a 170 Grain Hornady. I am unhappy with the results. I sighted it in at 50 yards, and never tried the 100 yard target. The best I could get is 1 1/2 inch groups at 50 yards. Should I switch Powder or Bullet brand, or both?

[Sixgun]

I agree--it should do that at 100 yards. Try loosening all screws that go into things that touch the barrel. Turn 'em out one or two turns and keep an eye on 'em so you don't loose them. The factory puts in screws tight and that really upsets the barrel vibrations. Also, try seating the bullets out as far as you can without exceeding MOL. You can crimp these with a Lee FCD if the cannelure is exposed.

If worst comes to worst, take off the mag tube and the forend. Shoot it with just the barrel, action and buttstock. Another thing, the gun is new and may need a couple of hundred jacketed rounds to polish it up some.--------All that shootin' is sure to p_ss you off. -------Sixgun

[Rusty]

You might also try some of the Leverlution ammo for it. that's what it was designed for.