[Charlie Z]

Given the criteria you list, I think they're a wash. The differences between those 2 rifles are in areas different from what you list as important.

If you're more sentimental, the Brownchester is nice, and well finished, too, if not totally authentic. The Marlin is more the hunting machine (IMHO) because of the number and the ease adding sights, tuning kits and gadgets available.

If you lay the 2 side by side on the counter, you'll figure out whether your heart or brain win out.

I had the same question with a 1892 vs. 1894; I chose the 92 (an excellent carbine), but I still have an itch for the Marlin. I know if I chose the Marlin, I'd still want the Brownchester. Very annoying.

Best,

- Charlie

 

[Charlie Z]

Yah. I hunt my '92, too. People collect Brownchesters (dunno why -- they're jap replicas.), They hold their value because they are well designed (JMB) and made I suppose, but they won't appreciate like a 'real' Winchester. I got it because it's a truly beautiful design and I don't feel uncomfortable modifying a replica.

Anyway, I'll be stripping the plastic coating off of mine to get to the wood sometime this winter. I also have an AO peep to tap on.

 

[Charlie Z]

Charlie, is that AO a bolt mounted peep? Mine has a Williams FP that seems to work just fine. There's an old Winchester bolt peep in somewhere in my boxes of gun stuff that could also be on the Miroku.

I haven't mounted it, yet. It's the same as the one for the '94 (the new of which are tapped up there for these things). Since the bolt is different on the 92 (it's like the 86), I think the AO goes on top of the small receiver flats either side of the bolt and aft of the locking bolt. It may also fit ahead of the locking bolt, but it's getting farther from the eyes there. A Williams might be easier to mount, though I think I'd have to drill and tap for that, too.