Under Ruger's ownership since 2020, Marlin keeps cranking out new and/or revamped lever-action models. The most recent examples are the new SBL Series Model 336 and Trapper Series Model 336, that have been just added to Marlin's product catalog.
Both chambered for the classic and popular .30-30 Winchester cartridge, the 336 SBL and 336 Trapper share some common features too, including the stainless steel construction and a gray laminated stock, a big loop lever for easy operation even with heavy gloves, side loading gate, spiral-fluted polished bolt and a 5/8”-24 threaded barrel to accommodate a muzzle brake or other muzzle accessories (a thread protector is factory installed). In detail, the receiver, lever and trigger guard plate are CNC machined from 416 stainless steel forgings, while the barrel is made of 410 stainless steel and cold hammer-forged. Tight tolerances and reliability are guaranteed by the manufacturer through improved manufacturing processes. Let's see the specific features of each of the two 336 models.
Marlin 336 SBL
A polished stainless finish, a barrel length of 19.1"/485 mm and a long Picatinny rail for scope mounting distinguish the Marlin Model 336 SBL. The tubular magazine capacity is 6 rounds. The durable gray laminate buttstock and slim forend with remain dimensionally stable in varying weather conditions, and a safe grip is ensured by the sharp checkering. Length of Pull is 13.38"/340 mm. A soft-rubber buttpad effectively absorbs recoil. Safety is provided by a cross-bolt button and the traditional half-cock hammer. Sling swivel studs and an offset hammer spur are also included in the price, which in the U.S. is $1,529.
Marlin 336 Trapper
The Marlin 336 Trapper is based on the same platform as the Marlin SBL Series but at 16"/406 mm the barrel here is shorter for better maneuverability. Finish is also different fro the SBL: the Trapper's bead-blasted, satin finish on all stainless steel components allow for low glare in the field and rapid acquisition with the adjustable Skinner Sights receiver-mounted peep sight system. The tubular magazine holds 5 rounds in .30-30 Winchester.
Stock, safeties and mechanical characteristics are the same as the 336 SBL. Price, on the other hand, is different: $1,499 (MSRP in the U.S.).
