I have two marlin XL7 rifles in .270 Winchester and think highly of them. On a lark I wrote to Marlin and asked them if they expected to chamber this rifle in larger calibers such as the .35 Whelen. I asked if perhaps they would be making barrels that the public could purchase and put on their rifles much like the barrels produced for the Savage rifles. That would allow Marlin to make rifles only in the most popular calibers yet cater to those of us wishing something else. I sent a return envelope so I hope they respond. I would like a barrel in .338-08 or .35 Whelen.

I'd be very interested in their reply. I'm a fan of the 35 Whelen.

People who have tried it are saying Savage barrels are interchangeable with Marlin's.

Here, about the bottom half of page 1:

http://www.marlinowners.com/forums/index.php/topic,46748.0.html

Bruce

I have read where some people have mounted the Savage aftermarket barrels on their Marlins. That would be a good thing. I would need to find out more about it. A non magnum big bore would be an acceptable addition to the collection. I had a .35 Whelen many years ago and it was one of the best 200 yard do anything cartridges available.

I had shilen put a 35 whelen on my marlin xl7 and it rocks!