Both seem to be great rifles. For some reason I prefer the Savages just because of the stock. That's not saying the stock on the Savages is great as they aren't. They are flimsy in the fore end. However, I don't like the cheek piece on the Marlins. They honestly seem to close I'd go with whichever one fit you better which for me seems to be the Savages. IMO one of the best deals out there is the $400 package for the Savage 110 at Walmart with the sling, accu trigger, and a cheap Simmons scope that will get you by until you get a better scope. The Marlins seem to be low $300's in this area but that's no scope, no sling, etc. So they are slightly cheaper but less stuff with them. Just depends on what you want. Both seem to be great rifles.