Marlin 45 carbine
03-31-2007, 14:56
Probably first was my dealer had this SS model (pre-ban) for the grand sum of 225 $ when I was looking for a SHTF carbine. Was considering a G.I. 30 cal carbine, cost more than my M-30 and not as poweful. Also had experience with Mini-14 but had pretty much ruled it out. Ammo is relatively cheap and the scope is easily and quickly detachable. Some of you may know of the simple mod you can do to a Mini's trigger to double the rate of fire, this was an issue also. So I bought it and have been working on load development ever since and some simple (cheap) mods to improve accuracy. A trigger stoning/polish, a buffer on the gas block, a small scope (Barska 1.5X4.5 tactical) free-floated the gas block and roll-pinned the bushing(haven't been to range since I did this and shim the receiver) and just finished shims in the locking/recoil lugs - used copper sheet and the fit is TIGHT, no movement at all. So looking forward to a range trip hopefully soon to try out my Mini and some more handloads since i bought a Lee factory crimp die (takes light touch with this I read here) to see if I have improved group size from the best of 3.5" at 100 yds I have worked up to. When I first shot it with the factory trigger and sights - well you can guess. When I floated the gas block I used SS machine screws to fasten the liner to the stock, pulled the cap off and ground off the liner 'tabs' - they were there to fasten the liner which now I have with 2 screws. I'm hoping for a noticeable accuracy increase. Anyone wish to weigh in with a prediction? I followed 'cajungeo's' recommendation concerning the gas-block floating. Now there is no tension of any sort on the barrel/gas block area.