I am in the market for a 336 35 Rem and was wondering what I should know about the older ones vs. the new? Are they like most rifles in that the machining quality (ie. slickness) is better on the older ones. I have only heard good things about the accuracy of the later models, and prefer the checkered wood to the old ones. The safety isnt an issue with me, so what else should I be looking at. What have your experiences been? Thanks.

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You have noted the differences. Models are introduced and model are discontinued but other than that not much difference.

One thing I like about Marlins vs Winchesters is that the Marlins have been more consistent in quality over the years. Some older ones are not drilled and tapped. There have been subtle changes to the stock shape over the years. The rifles made in the 70's look best to me because the fore end is trimmer, much more like the Winchester.

Thanks guys. Guess I will just have to put some in my hands and find one that talks to me.

Machined extractors on the old are a nice touch.

~ I like 'old' Winchesters.

~ And love 'NEW' Marlins!

+1, couldn't of said it better myself !

" the older ones vs. the new? Are they like most rifles in that the machining quality (ie. slickness) is better on the older ones."

Well, the older ones (like mine) have been used a lot more than most newer ones. I suspect that a bit of wear has a lot to do with how slick any of them are. Biggest difference is newer ones have safety; some like that, some don't. The safety doesn't mean a thing to me, either way. I do like the checkering on the new models but not the fatter fore ends. ??

I my limited experience the older ones do exhibit better fit and finish though accuracy wise the new ones suffer in comparison not at all.

I have old and new...I like them both, although I'm not real thrilled with the checkered stocks.

So what's old? I used to figure 50 year old folks were mighty old, now I is one. /grin

I have a 39a and a 444ss both born in the 70's and don't really think of them as being "old", but I sure do like them much better then the newer versions as far as fit, feel, and looks. That crossbolt safety is just plain ugly, and a safety stuck on an exposed hammer rifle just seems like a waste.

I can't tell much difference but I hate that safety on the new ones. I replace all of mine.

I believe the new ones are just as good, but the old ones look and feel better.

Either one is fine well made rifles. Take a brand new one with 0 miles on it.