Marlin Model 60

[FUBAR]

I am now considering a Marlin Model 60 as a beginners rifle for my kids. I like the idea of not having to deal with magazines. To me less is best. My only problem is loading the rifle. I just get this uneasy feeling about placing my hand so close to the muzzle let alone have my kids do this someday. Just wondering if any owners of this rifle feel the same way as I do. Should I just forego the Model 60 and get the Model 795? I dont plan on modding so it doesnt really make any sense to get a Ruger 10/22.

[Prospector]

I used to feel the same way til I got a speed loader.

[orangeusa]

You ARE loading in that bullet shaped cutout (in ammo tube) aren't you? vs. dropping down the tube.

Buy a used one for cheap like I did and you can get a 17 rounder with longer barrel. They are scary accurate for an inexpensive gun.

I looked into those clear plastic tube autoloaders and could only find 10 rounders...

.

[trickyvic]

I would definitely recommend a Marlin 60, even for small children. While they learn to handle any rifle you should be loading it for them anyway. All it takes is a quick visual check of the chamber to make sure it's unloaded.

I looked into those clear plastic tube autoloaders and could only find 10 rounders...

You just have to know where to look. I posted the link to the company that makes the Spee-d-loaders, you can purchase 15rd and 19rd loaders through them. All the loaders they make have 8 cylinders of either 15 or 19 rounds. Here's a pic of my 2 15rd loaders, I love them!

http://www.spee-d-loader.net/

[41M]

I don't really see a problem with the Marlin tubular magazine loading process, it's what I grew up using. Then again I first learned gun safety with a BB gun. Browning makes a .22 LR semi-auto that feeds through the stock, and has dimensions that might be better for children.

[AIMSMALL]

Marlin 60 was my first rifle, my 11 month old owns it now although she (thats right she) will be trained with bb guns long before she ever gets her hands on it. My daughter has been in the NRA since she was 1 week old, my wife thinks I'm crazy but I think it's best to start em young.

Anyway, train with BB guns first and by the time they get the real thing they should already have alot of good safety habits.

[WhatsTCP]

Like the others said, just as long as you put the safety on and check that the weapon is clear, putting your hands near the muzzle should be no problem (although a couple of people at the range gave me the WTH ARE YOU DOING look) and the new ones hold 14 rounds which is still quite the round count. Inexpensive, accurate, reliable, and fun. It's hard to come up with a reason why the model 60 is not a good choice

[fal_762x51]

The Marlin 60 was the first gun I purchased when I turned 18. What I noticed about the tube feed is that you are more careful of your shots as the reload was annoying to me. It has always got the job done and took countless rabbits. You can get a tech sight also to help with marksmanship: http://www.tech-sights.com/marlin.htm

[res2580]

I had a M60. Great gun, one of my fav when I was 15. I like the way that I did not have to worry about forgetting the mags.

[thayne]

I got a marlin 60 when i was 12 years old, as did all my brothers. Never had any problems. Just teach good gun safety.

[SVT_Fox]

get the 795 man, Im about to order a bullpup conversion for her!

[orangeusa]

Oh, one other thing. I lock the slide back everytime I load mine.

Pull back on the slide and push handle IN. Slide is locked back for even more safe loading.

Pull out and slide returns after loading.

BTW - I don't use the safety. As a lefty, it drives me insane.

[CalNRA]

Oh, one other thing. I lock the slide back everytime I load mine.

Pull back on the slide and push handle IN. Slide is locked back for even more safe loading.

well to be exact it's the bolt.

But yes, the 60s have that feature, in fact so does the 795, so the 795 has TWO bolt hold open options.

[orangeusa]

At least I didn't do the clip/magazine thing!!

[FUBAR]

Decided on the 795. I'm more comfortable with magazines plus it has that Marlin rebate. Thanks for all the comments. This is a great forum. One of the best I've seen with the best people on it. Thanks again. Now I gotta get one of them tech sights.