winchester or Marlin

[C6NY]

Looking for the next addition to my collection. I don't own a lever and it's about time to add one. Looking at the 94 or the 336. Trying to go with the less expensive versions and don't know a whole bunch about them. Looking for advise from those who have experience with both brands. Any tips welcomed. Oh yeah, 30-30 will be the cal.

[Happy Camper]

I've heard that Marlin had some quality issues when they were taken over by Remington. Not sure if they got them figured out.
That said, I have an older Marlin and it's great. You can probably find a used one cheap and put the savings towards a good scope.

[dougfxdl]

The Marlin will likely be more accurate, but the Winchester is a classic. They'll both work, but to me, the 94 is the way to go.

[bigbore44]

Justkeep in mind that the 94's are top eject, except for the much later 94AE mdls(angle-eject). And with the Marlins, you want an older model (pre-Remington), with a JM rollmark on the barrel/left side, near the rear(usually that is). JMO

[Helmup]

The Miroku Winchesters are well made.
I've read that Marlin's quality has improved since the transition.
If you think you will scope it, the Marlin is probably the way to go.
Other than that, decide what barrel length you want, and handle a few.

[Destro]

Get a JM stamped, used 336 (the Remlins are hit or miss and the pre-big green JMs hold value better). Plenty in that model/caliber around, a N. Eastern deer gun, classic Marlin.

[Idiocracy]

A used JM Marlin will likely cost you more than a new 336. I can't speak to the quality of the old ones, but I have no issues with my 1895gbl. Only that 45-70 ammo is too damn expensive for something so much fun to shoot.

[Destro]

Bought an excellent condition 1986 JM Marlin 336 with a scope at a LGS a few months ago for just about (a few under) the price of a new one. There are a ton of 336s out there, one of the most ubiquitous deer rifles in the Northeast.

The thing with the Remlins is that you really have to inspect them. Some are just fine, but when they're bad, they're bad (sharp burrs on the metal, horrible fitting, ejection issues). It's a QC issue. I wouldn't buy one online sight unseen. Inspect it in a shop.

[C6NY]

Thanks for the posts guys, appreciated.
Here's a pretty good comparison between the two I thought. I've been leaning slightly towards the 336 and has been interesting reading.
http://www.chuckhawks.com/compared_marlin336_win94.htm

[Bobbytaz]

I love the older "JM" Marlins, its my go to hunting rifle.

[vmtcmt]

Have you considered a Henry?
https://www.henryrifles.com/rifles/the-henry-3030/

[Destro]

Henry makes beautiful rifles, and is a great American company that stands by it's product. Definitely something to consider in the mix.

[NRATC53]

The Marlins are a lot quieter in the woods, the Winchesters sound like a coffee can with a lot of loose bolts in them. Marlins are easier to scope, and better in bad weather. As well said,by Destro and others, the QC on the transition guns are hit or miss and the older guns hold their value better. Some don't like the cross bolt safety but it does have advantages....A friend had his hat blown off his head by a hunting buddy who slipped. I have both. they both work well but I take the Marlin into the woods (but my go to Deer rifle is one in .35 Rem)

[C6NY]

Have you considered a Henry?
https://www.henryrifles.com/rifles/the-henry-3030/

Henry is definitely in the mix but running in third place as of now based mostly on cost. I'm trying to keep the price down at this time and they seem to run higher for comparable models. The 336 seems like the better bargain and I'm leaning towards it. I understand the early teething problems with the Remington takeover have been sorted out and the quality is where it should be.
Thanks to all who offered posts.