"Smokeless Powder" in barrel means ???

Any questions related to guns

Moderators: Regnier (gunrunner), JohnK, Sure-Shot

Post Reply
GoodOlePaul
Beginner
Posts: 2
Joined: Sat Nov 17, 2018 4:25 pm

"Smokeless Powder" in barrel means ???

Post by GoodOlePaul »

I have inherited a Model 1893 with an "A####" series serial number. The caliber is 25-36, and the barrel is marked "Smokeless Powder." Is this safe to shoot with modern ammo? Can it handle both 25-25 AND 25-36? Thoughts and opinions, please.

- - - GoodOlePaul
User avatar
marlinman93
Distinguished Expert
Posts: 2853
Joined: Sun Nov 10, 2002 1:22 pm
Location: Portland, Oregon

Re: "Smokeless Powder" in barrel means ???

Post by marlinman93 »

Yes, it is safe to shoot with modern ammo once you've looked it over well, and confirmed it's in good shape. Finding modern ammo for it might not be all that easy though. .25-35 will shoot pretty well in a .25-36 M chamber, but even better once they have been reloaded with the brass after first firing, and forming to the chamber.
Hopefully you reload, so you can appreciate how well an 1893 in .25-36M can shoot when loaded to it's original specs with .25-36M dies.
Marlin lever actions 1870's-WWI, Ballards, and single shot rifles!
Post Reply