Marlin Model XT-17R .17 HMR 22" Bolt Action Rifle, Black Synthetic – 70701 For Sale

Why are Marlin rifles so hard to find?

Marlin rifles have become hard to find due to a combination of factors:

1. **Manufacturing Changes**: In 2007, Marlin Firearms was acquired by Remington Arms, which led to production shifts and quality control issues. These changes affected the availability and reputation of Marlin rifles.

2. **Production Delays**: Remington’s financial struggles and eventual bankruptcy in 2018 disrupted production schedules, leading to shortages in supply.

3. **Increased Demand**: Growing interest in firearms for hunting, sport shooting, and personal defense has increased demand, putting additional pressure on availability.

4. **Supply Chain Issues**: Like many industries, the firearms industry has faced supply chain disruptions, particularly in sourcing raw materials and components, contributing to limited production.

5. **Collector Interest**: Marlin rifles, particularly older models, are considered collector’s items, increasing demand and reducing supply in the market.

These factors combined have made Marlin rifles challenging to find for consumers.

How old is my Marlin rifle?

To determine the age of your Marlin rifle, you’ll need to identify its serial number. Marlin Firearms Company often uses serial numbers to indicate the manufacturing year. With that information, you can typically look up the serial number on Marlin’s website or firearm databases, or you can contact Marlin directly. If you provide the serial number, I could potentially guide you on how to interpret it, but keep in mind it’s critical to follow safety and privacy guidelines when sharing firearm information.

Why did Marlin Firearms go out of business?

Marlin Firearms did not technically go out of business, but it underwent significant changes that affected its operations. The company faced challenges related to financial difficulties of its parent companies and production quality issues after it was acquired by Remington Arms in 2008. Subsequently, Remington Outdoor Company, the parent of Remington Arms, filed for bankruptcy twice—first in 2018 and again in 2020. During its second bankruptcy, Remington’s assets were auctioned, and Marlin Firearms was acquired by Sturm, Ruger & Co. The transition period, coupled with these challenges, affected Marlin’s operations, but under new ownership, there are efforts to revive and continue the production of Marlin firearms.

Did Ruger buyout Marlin?

Yes, Ruger purchased the Marlin brand from Remington Outdoor Company. The acquisition was completed in 2020 when Ruger bought Marlin for $30 million as part of the Remington bankruptcy auction.

Why are Marlin so prized?

Marlin are highly prized for several reasons:

1. **Sport Fishing**: Marlins are considered one of the ultimate trophies in sport fishing due to their size, strength, and speed. Catching a marlin is considered a significant achievement and is highly challenging.

2. **Aesthetic Appeal**: Marlins are known for their impressive size and striking appearance, with long, spear-like bills and vibrant colors. This makes them attractive to anglers and enthusiasts.

3. **Rarity**: Some species of marlin, particularly the blue and black marlins, are relatively rare, making them more sought after by fishermen.

4. **Record-Breaking Potential**: Marlins can grow to be very large, and catching a record-breaking marlin is a prestigious accomplishment in the sport fishing community.

5. **Cultural Significance**: In some cultures and communities, marlin fishing holds historical and traditional importance.

6. **Economic Impact**: Marlin fishing can draw significant tourism, contributing to the economies of coastal areas where marlin are found.

However, it’s important to note that overfishing and conservation concerns have led to increased awareness and efforts to protect marlin populations, with a greater emphasis on catch-and-release practices.

Is Ruger making Marlin rifles now?

Yes, Ruger is currently manufacturing Marlin rifles. Ruger acquired the Marlin brand in 2020, and since then, they have resumed production of Marlin rifles under their ownership.

Can you tell the age of a gun by the serial number?

The age of a gun can sometimes be estimated based on its serial number, but this is not universally applicable to all firearms. The ability to determine the age depends on several factors, including the manufacturer, model, and available historical records.

Some manufacturers maintain detailed records that can link serial numbers to production dates. In such cases, you may be able to contact the manufacturer directly or refer to specific gun collector resources, websites, or books that have compiled this information.

However, not all manufacturers provide such records publicly, and certain guns, especially vintage or antique models, may not have easily accessible serial number data. In these cases, consulting with a firearms appraiser or expert might be necessary.

Additionally, for guns manufactured before the Gun Control Act of 1968 in the United States, which mandated serial number requirements, it might be more challenging to find consistent records.

In summary, while it is sometimes possible to determine a gun’s age by its serial number, it largely depends on the availability of specific manufacturer data and historical records.

Where are Marlin rifles made today?

Marlin rifles are currently manufactured in Mayfield, Kentucky. Production was moved there by Ruger after they acquired the Marlin brand from Remington Outdoor Company in 2020.

How can you tell the age of a blue marlin?

The age of a blue marlin can be determined by examining its otoliths, also known as ear stones. These small, calcified structures located in the fish’s ear region have growth rings, similar to the rings in a tree, that can be counted to estimate the marlin’s age. Each pair of light and dark rings typically represents one year of growth. Biologists extract and analyze these otoliths under a microscope to determine the marlin’s age accurately.

Are lever-action rifles making a comeback?

Yes, lever-action rifles have been experiencing a resurgence in popularity in recent years. This revival can be attributed to a mix of nostalgia, their historical significance, and their versatility for hunting and sport shooting. Additionally, some modern manufacturers have been producing updated versions with improved materials and technology, appealing to both seasoned enthusiasts and new firearms owners.

What year did Marlin sell to Remington?

Marlin was sold to Remington in 2007.

What does the JM stamp mean on a Marlin?

The “JM” stamp on a Marlin firearm indicates that the barrel was manufactured by the original Marlin company, known as John Marlin. This stamp is typically found on older Marlin rifles, especially those produced before the acquisition of Marlin by Remington in 2008. Firearms with the “JM” stamp are often sought after by collectors and enthusiasts for their perceived higher quality and craftsmanship compared to those manufactured under Remington’s ownership.

What is 45-70 good for?

The .45-70 Government cartridge, originally developed by the U.S. Army in 1873, is known for its versatility and power. Here are some of its common uses:

1. **Hunting**: The .45-70 is popular for hunting large game such as deer, elk, moose, and even bear due to its strong stopping power.

2. **Sport Shooting**: It’s used in target shooting and long-range shooting competitions, particularly in disciplines that appreciate historical firearms and cartridges.

3. **Historical Reenactments**: Enthusiasts of historical firearms, particularly those from the late 19th century, often use .45-70 rifles for reenactments and living history demonstrations.

4. **Self-Defense**: While not common, it can be used for self-defense in areas with dangerous wildlife due to its powerful cartridge.

Its reputation for power and effectiveness at relatively short to medium ranges makes it a favorite among those using lever-action rifles and modern single-shot rifles.

What does sbl stand for in Marlin?

In the context of Marlin firmware, “SBL” stands for “Software Bootloader.”

Who owns Remington firearms now?

As of the latest information, Remington Outdoor Company’s assets, including the firearms business, were sold off in pieces during a bankruptcy auction in 2020. The Remington firearms brand was acquired by Vista Outdoor Inc. If you’re seeking the most current details, it’s recommended to check the latest business news as ownership can change.