That's funny. I thought it was the 1873 Winchester. And it wasn't even a 30-30. It was either a 44-40, or probably a .45 colt.

Marlin made their first 30-30 in 1893, quickly after the 30-30 smokeless cartridge was introduced.

Marlin made their first solid top receiver and side ejection in 1889, so I don't see any ambitions to copy the Winchester 94. That Improvement to the Marlin guns probably lead to the chambering of the powerful 45-70 cartridge in 1895, and probably why it is such a strong frame for the 30-30.

Surely you jest about the Marlin being a Johnny come lately Winchester wannabe.

C. Davis