1881 Marlin 45-70 Question

Anything to do with Lever Action Guns

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Old Gun Guy
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1881 Marlin 45-70 Question

Post by Old Gun Guy »

Hello!
I just got done putting an 1881 Marlin back in shooting condition (I think). I have not loaded any rounds or tried firing it yet. I wanted to be sure of the action, which turned out to be surprisingly smooth. The only problem is that the cartridge follower, when empty, will protrude too far into the action and cause the lifter to not raise up like it should. Will a live cartridge prevent this from happening? I can't see any provision for a cartridge stop. Is there supposed to be one on the rifle?
Thank you!
Old Gun Guy
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marlinman93
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Re: 1881 Marlin 45-70 Question

Post by marlinman93 »

Maybe, but it shouldn't happen empty. Sounds like an issue with the follower, or slide cover. It should trap the follower and not allow it to enter the action that far, even when empty. It may prove to be OK with a case, as the larger rim might be easier to catch. It shouldn't matter if it's a live cartridge, or an empty case. Either way it should catch the rim.
Marlin lever actions 1870's-WWI, Ballards, and single shot rifles!
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