why do you think tghe Marlin 308XP will die a slow death? I'm not saying you're wrong at all, I just wonder why you thino so. I have no loyalty to Marlin, I just liked the thought of the 308XP in a lever action for hogs. The Browning BLR just doesn't look good to me, call me crazy. All my shotguns are Brownings, but I just don't like the BLR.
How many manufacturers other then Hornady manufacture ammo? Wouldn't one want a cartidge 308 that is manufactured by at least 200+ cartridge companies(just used as a reference not sure how many co's are out there). HOw bout a cartridge you can actually load for as well. Do you see a lot of components for the 308 Marlin. I have a Marlin XLR 45/70 and I have gone thru 4 BLR's all but one was a 308. They shoot great and are lighter and much smoother then any Marlin. Thats a fact , I won't own a BLR in 450 Marlin though it would have severe recoil. It might be one of the underrated guns out there.