I love this rifle, but it constantly battle to feed rounds. You have to actuate the lever multiple times and pretty firm to load the next round. When you inspect the cartridge, the round will have gouges or scratches on the projectile. Anyone have thoughts on what’s causing the issue and how to fix? This problem occurs with 357 and 38s, but seems worse with 38s.

I've had similar issues with shorter rounds and round nose FMJ bullets. One of the 38 rounds locked it up tight.
In my experience it was virtually nonexistant with semi wadcutter or FP bullets so I assume the carrier geometry just isn't cut out for round nose in either caliber

That exact rifle caused me the exact problems. The carrier will get slightly bent when a jam occurs. It will only get worse with each subsequent jam. A new carrier was my answer. They’re cheap and available. Or were when I needed one.


I’m not 100% sure this is your problem but it was mine.

Known as the Marlin Jam. Lots of information on correcting it on the net. MarlinOwners.com and Leverguns.com

Try longer ammo. If you load your own I suggest at least 1.55" bare minimum and 1.6" is even better.