I am looking for a good light brush rifle to use while slipping through the woods. I have looked at pawn shops and I have not found one in decent condition that wasn't overpriced. Bass Pro shops has the Marlin for sale at $279. Should I just buy a new one or keep looking?

Thats easy buy the new one if money isn't a problem .

It really depends on your timeline. I found beautiful 1976, very little used Marlin 336 this fall for about 1/2 what a new one of the same style would cost. If I were in a hurry and found one for the price you're mentioning, I'd buy it and never look back. Good luck and have fun with your lever gun. (by the way, there's lever gun and marlin forums at www.shootersforum.com)

my Marlin .30-30 is the the only rifle I own that would never sale. I love that thing in a very un-natural way.

Buy a new one

You can typically pick those up for about $150 used so if you have time I would wait otherwise buy new.

Tom

It's tough to beat a new rifle for under $300. But, this is coming on a good time of year to look for used rifles. Just after deer season, and just before Christmas, seems like alot of guys will pawn their "less needed" rifles to get thru the holidays. Often, the 'old' 30-30 is the one that will go. Very often, some really good deals can be found. Good luck!

I agree that you can find some great deals in pawnshops, if you live in an area with lots of them and have the time to cruise.

For that matter, Gunbroker and AuctionArms have good deals pop up from time to time (I paid about $220 for a used Marlin with a Bushnell Elite 3200 scope; like buying a scope and getting a free rifle). But again, you've got to have the time and patience to wade through all that.

Sometimes, a bird in the hand, etc. etc.

Whatever you decide, Marlins are great rifles; hard to go wrong.

Also check with Wal-Mart!

Good choice!