Marlin 60The Marlin 60 has been called the world's most popular .22 by it's maker. Sales of the semi auto rifle have now surpassed 11 million. Guess they have the right to boast a little. What is the reason for it's success? Simple. It is inexpensive and accurate too. In the mid '80s I found a newspaper ad from a discount department store advertising a Marlin 60 semi auto rifle for 50 bucks. It was such a sweet deal I just had to have one. I hurried in right away and made the purchase. Then, out to do some target shooting. I tried several brands of ammo to see which one it liked best. Some shot better than others, but really it was not finicky at all.
The Marlin 60 semi auto rifle with custom checkering I once entered a target competition with the little marlin just for grins. There were several high end target rifles and other more expensive hunting rifles competing. The model 60 raised a few eyebrows by scoring in the middle of the pack. Aside from a few misfires due to light firing pin hits, she has functioned flawlessly over the years. The simple blow back operation worked reliably even when fouled with powder residue. I cannot recall any jams or any other problems. I consider it a good investment!
Target shooting with the Marlin 60 FeaturesThis Marlin 60 is equipped with a 19" barrel and Marlin's Microgroove 1:16 twist rifling. The tubular magazine holds 14 rounds. The magazine follower is brass, which eliminates the chance of it rusting inside the magazine tube. Older versions had longer barrels and magazines. They also did not have the last shot hold open feature.
The last shot hold open feature stops the bolt from returning forward. It stays half way back to show the empty chamber. For cleaning purposes pull the bolt all the way back and push in as the white arrow indicates. This will lock the bolt open allowing access.
To close the bolt, apply pressure to the bolt release just forward of the trigger guard. This is another feature found only on mid '80s and later rifles. The crossbolt safety is located just behind the trigger. Safety note: It is good practice to keep your fingers from in front of the muzzle when loading! While it is possible to load while a live round is in the chamber it is Not recommended!! If the semi buckhorn open sights are not your cup of tea, a scope can be easily mounted using the dovetails on the aluminum receiver. Weighing only 5.5 lbs. and 37.5" long, the Marlin model 60 is great for hunting small game all day long.
VariationsThe hardwood stocked, blued barrel Model 60 is the base model offering from Marlin. They also make a takedown model called the Papoose AKA the model 60PSS Stainless. The barrel is attached by a threaded sleeve for quick assembly. It also features a 7 round clip magazine.Other variants are the Marlin 60C with camo patterned hardwood stock. Model 60SB with stainless steel and laminated hardwood stock. Model 60SN with blued barrel and black synthetic stock. Model 60SS stainless steel with gray laminate stock and sling swivels. Model 60S-CF with stainless steel and carbon fiber stock. Model 795 with a clip magazine.
Marlin 60 semi auto rifle owners manual
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