Marlin XL7

corbin9191 · Aug 18, 2009

I just found a good deal on a brand new marlin XL7 in 243, 243 compact, 270 win, 308 win, and 30-06. The price is 279.99. But the problem that I am having is deciding what rifle to get. I have been looking alot at the 308 win because I already have a 243 and a 270 win. So what does everyone think about the marlin XL7 and what rifle would you suggest? Thank you

Big Squeeze · Aug 18, 2009

I`ve read alot of good things about the XL7s. For the price imo, it is an excellent rifle. You can`t go wrong. Based on what you have already, go for either the 308 or the `06. Slap on a nice scope and you`ll have a nice pkg for under $600-$700 depending on the scope.

If not the XL7, a new M77 Ruger Hawkeye is another great choice.

DrMike · Aug 18, 2009

For the price, not a bad deal. Big Squeeze has analysed the situation quite well, given your current holdings.

FOTIS · Aug 18, 2009

It is a knock of from the Savage. Go for it. You will love it. I playedwith a 30-06 and it was easy to get a good load.

corbin9191 · Aug 18, 2009

Thanks for the quick replies! If cabelas up here in billings still has some left by this saturday,I will be getting the 308. Then I will let everyone know how it does

Greg Nolan · Aug 18, 2009

I had one in 22-250 and it was a nice accurate rifle. I'd still have it but Winchester finally replaced my 223 WSSM with a new accurate one so I sold the Marlin because I didn't need two calibers so close. Go for it!
Greg

corbin9191 · Aug 22, 2009

Well I got the rifle today and found out that they all the short actions the XS7 instead of the XL7. But I got the 308 win and it has a 1 in 12 twist rate and a 22 inch barrel. So I just need to break the barrel in and see what she can do. Just a question for you all. I know there are many ways to do this but what is the best way to break in a barrel?

DrMike · Aug 22, 2009

corbin9191,

I shoot one round and clean to remove all copper for at least ten rounds. Then, I shoot three rounds, giving ample time between shots to keep the barrel and especially the throat cool, and clean to the metal for at least another twenty rounds. After that, until it is shooting well and consistently, I avoid shooting it to the point of heating the barrel excessively, and clean after every five or so rounds. It shouldn't take long. Consequently, any good copper cleaner will work just fine. I use a lot of Butch's Bore Shine.

corbin9191 · Aug 23, 2009

Ok! thanks for the help. Another question is on the bullet weight, since I have a 1 in 12 twist rate what is the biggest grain of bullet I can shoot out of this rifle. It does have a 22 in barrel.

Big Squeeze · Aug 23, 2009

corbin9191":j66pan65 said:
Ok! thanks for the help. Another question is on the bullet weight, since I have a 1 in 12 twist rate what is the biggest grain of bullet I can shoot out of this rifle. It does have a 22 in barrel.

...............Because you have a slightly slower twist than 1 in 10, I don`t see any reason why you can`t use any bullet weight up to and including a 200 gr.

You still need to experiment with different powders, bullets and COALs combos anyway in order to determine what your rifle likes and dislikes.

150s, 165s, 180s and 200s should all do well with the right powder and bullet combo in your rifle.