I decided to give myself 3-4hrs this week after work to do a project for myself. The gun in particular was handed down through the family, not a high end piece compared to most of the stuff I do, but she see’s good use deer hunting on my property.

I’ve always been enamored by Joel Dorleacs stock shaping and style, a combination of traditional English lines but with an aggressive flair in the wrist area. Looking at antique Marlin Deluxe lever guns, I believe he may have gained some inspiration from such. Specifically the line from the toe that runs up into the wrist and terminates on top of the wrist. I’m actually shaping up a .375 customer gun that is close, but still not as aggressive. So finally, on my own piece, I pushed my comfort zone from the subdued. I took the “deluxe” lines and pushed those boundaries.

I’ll plan to use this factory stock I’ve shaped and have it duplicated into a much nicer piece of wood, so I’m not going to bother with a fine oil finish or checkering.

The rather pudgy Marlin 336 stock:


After my touch:


Next up I may reduce tube mag length and do some forend work. May play with adding a cheakpiece on the other side, engraving, and color case hardening.

Good for you! Personally I think you'll have a hard time improving the OEM design in the field but you never know. Please let us know how it works out.

Fun project for sure

Are you doing anything to slim down the front stock? The only gripe I've had with Marlin is the front stock could be a little more slim and trim.

Yes, I’ve slimmed it down substantially. Plans are to eventually go to a forend cap at the end similar to an 1885 instead of the band.

I like it...but I haven't seen anything you've done that I don't like, so there is that

Ever handled a waffle top Marlin? They call 'em perch bellies for a reason...they real fat.

I like where you’re going. Keep us posted.

Your reshaped stock is just sensational. Love the treatment of the grip cap area!
I have been enjoying my final-year Model 36 A-DL. The factory put some nice wood on it.

I have had the same project on the back burner for 10+ years. Bought a straight English Stock and forend from treebone carving and haven't done a thing with it. It will be nice to live vicariously through your project.