My son is soon to turn 16 and thinks hes "to big" for his 243 model 7 youth. (and at 6'3" 210 it does look rather small in his hands ) I have been looking at boltaction 280s for him but hes kind of now showing interest in my grandfathers marlin 336 35rem that was handed down to me many years ago. He wants to use his great-grandfathers marlin from time to time but there are other times when he sits on a few stands on our place when he needs more capability than the ol 35 has. He firmly LOVES the 336!

I got out of the sportin biz b4 marlin released the express cartridges. Does anyone have any experience with the 308 express? I know the downside is limited ammo offerings and more pizzaz can be had with hotter cals in the browning blr, but he specifically likes the 336. (i must admit a preference for their "just right feel and balance" myself! I could see myself with a 338 ME as well.)

???s,
HL

Sounds like a great plan to me. I have not heard anything bad about any of the Marlin Express guns. I would go with the 308 if it were me and I was primarily hunting deer.

Brother had a 308 ME. Shot great. Problem was as you mentioned, factory ammo tough to find and rather. A suggestion - The 308 Win. cartridge and 165 gr. hunting bullet combo is a great short action choice for deer sized game. The Browning BLR is a nice feeling lever action, and readily available in many cartridges including the 308 Win. An rather off the wall suggestion - You can still find the Winchester Mod. 88 out there. The 308 Win. version of this fine, accurate lever is rather common. One in great shape will usaully runs about $600-$700. Pricey for a lever when compared to a Marlin 336, but a unique gift.

Let him use the .35 caliber marlin, with this --> http://www.hornady.com/store/35-Rem/

I would, then when he scores on the big buck, his GreatGrandFather will be smileing down from heaven.

JMHO

Already sighted in with that exact round jr!

Sat. morn the "three of us" will be in a tree with ol Marlin at the ready,
HL

The .308 Win will do anything and more than the .308 ME. Plus you can get ammo anywhere!

definitely .308
i had one last year and was good enough