The Marlin 336 is a classic lever-action rifle, prized for its reliability and accuracy. Proper cleaning is crucial for maintaining its performance and longevity. This guide provides a step-by-step process for effectively cleaning your Marlin 336, ensuring it remains in top shooting condition for years to come.
Preparing for the Cleaning Process
Before you begin, gather the necessary supplies. You'll need:
- Gun cleaning rod: Choose a rod appropriate for your rifle's caliber, preferably one with a bore guide to protect the rifling.
- Patches: Use patches sized for your caliber. Cotton patches are common, but some prefer microfiber or other materials.
- Bore brush: A bronze bore brush is ideal for removing fouling.
- Solvent: Choose a high-quality gun cleaning solvent designed for removing powder residue and fouling. Follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully.
- Gun oil: A light gun oil will lubricate moving parts and prevent rust.
- Cleaning patches: Several patches will be necessary.
- A well-ventilated area: Always clean your firearm in a well-ventilated space to avoid inhaling harmful fumes from solvents.
- Gloves: Wear gloves to protect your hands and prevent the transfer of oils and solvents to your skin.
- Safety Glasses: Protect your eyes from accidental splashes or debris.
- Toothbrush or small cleaning brush: for hard-to-reach areas.
- Cotton swabs: For detailed cleaning of smaller components.
Disassembling Your Marlin 336 for Cleaning
While the Marlin 336 is relatively simple to clean, proper disassembly is essential for thorough cleaning. Always ensure the firearm is unloaded and the action is open before beginning any cleaning procedure.
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Unload the rifle: Carefully remove all ammunition from the magazine tube and chamber. Visually inspect to ensure the firearm is completely unloaded.
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Remove the lever: Depress the lever release button and swing the lever down and off.
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Remove the bolt: With the lever removed, the bolt should slide easily out. Set it aside on a clean cloth.
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Clean the action: Brush and clean all accessible areas of the receiver and action, paying attention to any areas where residue may accumulate.
Cleaning the Barrel
This is the most crucial part of the cleaning process.
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Attach the bore guide: Insert the bore guide into the barrel from the muzzle (the end opposite the receiver) to protect the rifling during cleaning.
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Attach the cleaning rod: Carefully attach the cleaning rod to the bore guide.
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Attach the bore brush: Securely attach the bore brush to the cleaning rod.
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Apply solvent: Apply a small amount of solvent to the bore brush.
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Clean the bore: Slowly push the brush through the barrel from the muzzle to the breech (the end of the barrel connected to the action), using a back-and-forth motion. Repeat this process several times, applying fresh solvent as needed.
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Remove the bore brush: Once the bore is reasonably clean, remove the brush.
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Attach a cleaning patch: Attach a clean patch to the rod.
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Run a patch through: Slowly run a patch through the barrel to remove the solvent and loosened fouling. Repeat this process until the patches emerge clean.
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Final lubrication: Once the barrel is clean and dry, apply a small amount of gun oil to a patch and run it through the barrel to protect it from rust.
Cleaning Other Components
After cleaning the barrel, focus on other parts:
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Bolt: Clean the bolt thoroughly, paying close attention to the firing pin and extractor. Lubricate lightly.
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Receiver: Clean the receiver with a brush and patches, removing any powder residue or debris.
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Lever: Clean and lubricate the lever, paying attention to the pivot point.
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Magazine tube: Clean the magazine tube with a brush and patches to remove any accumulated powder residue.
Reassembling Your Marlin 336
Once all components are clean and dry, carefully reassemble your Marlin 336, reversing the disassembly steps. Always ensure the action functions smoothly.
Maintaining Your Marlin 336
Regular cleaning, as outlined above, is crucial for maintaining your Marlin 336. Remember to store it in a dry, safe place, away from moisture and extreme temperatures. By following these steps, you can ensure your Marlin 336 remains in excellent condition for many years of reliable performance. Remember safety is paramount; always handle firearms responsibly.
