Make: Marlin Firearms Co.

Model: 336SS

Serial Number: 98000101

Year of Manufacture: 2002 (JM-stamped barrel, North Haven, CT production)

Caliber: .30-30 Winchester

Action Type: Lever Action Rifle with Full-Length Tubular Magazine

Markings:

The left side of the barrel is marked “THE MARLIN FIREARMS CO. NORTH HAVEN, CT. U.S.A. –– MODEL 336SS –– CAL. .30/30 WIN.” followed by the JM proof near the receiver. The right side of the barrel carries a warning: “WARNING: USE ONLY … FOLLOW INSTRUCTIONS IN OWNER’S MANUAL.” The bottom of the receiver is marked with the serial number “98000101.” The buttpad is molded brown rubber with a raised cowboy on horseback design.

Barrel Length: 20”

Sights / Optics:

The front sight is a hooded brass bead on a serrated ramped base. The rear sight is a semi-buckhorn elevator sight. The receiver is drilled and tapped for scope mounting.

Stock Configuration & Condition:

The stocks are two-piece checkered walnut with a straight grip and straight comb. The wood has only minor handling marks and retains strong finish. The checkering is crisp, and the fitment is tight throughout. There are no cracks or chips. The stocks rate in Excellent condition.

Type of Finish: Stainless Steel

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition:

The bore is bright, the rifling is sharp. There is no visible erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 10/10.

Overall Condition:

This rifle retains about 98% of its original stainless finish. There are a few faint scuffs and handling marks, mainly on the magazine tube and around the loading port. The screw heads are sharp, and the markings are clear. Overall, this rifle rates in Excellent condition.

Mechanics:

The action functions correctly. The lever cycles smoothly, and the hammer locks up tight. The rifle features a cross-bolt safety. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None

Our Assessment:

The Marlin 336SS is a stainless steel variant of one of America’s most iconic lever guns—beloved for its rugged reliability, fast follow-up shots, and .30-30 chambering. This example was made in 2002 at Marlin’s North Haven plant and sports the desirable JM barrel stamp, indicating manufacture before Remington’s acquisition and the subsequent shift in production quality. These JM Marlins are considered the gold standard and these rifle have had a rise in desirability and their value has increased exceedingly. There will be no more JM Marked rifles made and that means the world to shooters and collectors alike

This rifle has all the hallmarks of Marlin’s best craftsmanship: rich walnut furniture, precise stainless finishing, and smooth lever function. Its 20-inch barrel and compact profile make it ideal for brush hunting or saddle carry, and the corrosion-resistant build is perfect for those wet or snowy days in the field. The bucking bronco logo on the recoil pad adds a unique touch of cowboy charm.

Whether you’re a lever-action purist, Marlin collector, or just want a reliable .30-30 that’s built to last a lifetime, this JM-marked 336SS is a standout find. With a pristine bore, tight wood-to-metal fit, and classic lines, it’s ready for both your safe and the field.