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Several years ago I contacted SSK about chambering a Marlin in .358JDJ.  Mr. Jones told me that the .358JDJ is too long for the Marlin action.  When .35 jacketed FP bullets are seated in their cannelure, OAL is too long to function in a Marlin levergun.  .35 bullets seated in their cannelure make the cartridge longer than .44 bullets seated in the .444 cartridge.

If this is in error I would love to know.  I have long wanted a .35 caliber lever gun that had more thump than .356win.  Ideally, I would like muzzle performance more in line with .35 Whelan (don't know if existing JFP's are up to it however, guess that means BTB will get the business instead).  I am patiently waiting for Gary James' .416x2" Beartooth to become a reality and necked down for .35 cal.

 

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All,
I guess I was already aware that a Win 1895 would be the easy way to get better .35 cal performance but........  I really am a Marlin kind of guy.  I like their balance, handling, looks, etc.  

Not only that, here in western New York Win 1895's and Browning 71's can be rarer than hens' teeth.  When you do find them they command a premium.  Base cost of the gun plus gunsmith charges will quickly put this project out of my $ range.  

On the other hand, I would gladly hand over one of my Marlins to someone who could convert it to a cartridge with .35 Whelan punch.  I am hoping Marlin will offer a family of cartridges based on their .450, then I could just show up at my dealer with $$'s in hand.  Otherwise, I will keep watching this forum to see if the .416x2" BTB comes to pass.

 

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Alyeska,
Did some nosing around some of those auction sites.  Good call! I don't normally get on them.  There does seem to be quite a bit out there.  

Just what I need, further temptation. (I think you now have been admonished twice on this posting for tempting us weak souls).

The only thing stopping me from jumping on an 1895 right now is the almost 9lbs weight of the gun.  Wanted something lighter/handier.  I am quickly warming up to it though.

I've been trying to decide on a new toy for the past couple months.  Wasn't really sure what I wanted (hate it when that happens). You might have helped me make up my mind.  There are several 1895 .270's online for reasonable $$'s.  I am going to watch these sites for a short while and get a feel for the going prices.  I won't be suprised if a 1895 in 35 Whelan improved is in my near future.

 

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Thanks for the insight.  I think I read somewhere that 1895's are over 8-1/2 lbs.  Don't know for sure but the number kinda sticks in my head.  I suppose that would be helpful with a big bore.  Like I said, we don't see them too often around western NY so I can't really touch one.  I'm kind of put off by that too.  I bet that if I saw one in the flesh I would fall in love and get one ASAP.  

Gunbroker had several to choose from, so did GunsAmerica. There is also a local guy (for me anyway) at GunsOnSale with one.  He's strictly online sales though.  You definitely have me looking now.  

There is a show coming to town soon, I'll stop in and see if any of the vendors are displaying one.  I'll give you a post if I nab one.