First Impressions of XS Sight Systems Lever Rail Marlin Model 336 35 REM Ghost Ring Mount
The XS Sight Systems Lever Rail Marlin Model 336 35 REM Ghost Ring Mount promises to modernize a classic rifle. It aims to bridge the gap between traditional lever-action aesthetics and the demands of modern optics. This immediately piqued my interest, as I’ve always appreciated the Marlin 336’s inherent accuracy and handling but longed for more versatile sighting options.
My journey to this particular mount began with a specific problem: aging eyes. Open sights, while nostalgic, were becoming increasingly difficult to use effectively. I needed a way to mount a scope or red dot on my trusty 336 without compromising its classic feel or requiring permanent modifications.
Unboxing the XS Sight Systems rail, I was immediately struck by its solid feel. The stainless steel and aluminum construction felt robust, and the blued finish seamlessly matched the existing finish on my rifle. It felt like a substantial upgrade, not a cheap add-on.
I considered similar options from other manufacturers, but the XS Sight Systems rail stood out for a few key reasons. First, the integrated ghost ring sight offered a backup aiming solution should my optic fail. Second, the extended rail provided the flexibility to mount optics in either a traditional receiver position or a forward “scout-scope” configuration. My initial excitement was high; this looked like the perfect solution to modernize my .35 Remington lever gun.
Real-World Testing: Putting XS Sight Systems Lever Rail Marlin Model 336 35 REM Ghost Ring Mount to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the XS Sight Systems Lever Rail Marlin Model 336 35 REM Ghost Ring Mount took place at my local shooting range. I mounted a 2.5x scout scope and a red dot in the traditional position to evaluate the rail’s versatility. The weather was typical for early spring: cool with intermittent light rain.
Installation was straightforward, though applying the included red threadlocker required patience. The scout scope provided excellent field of view and rapid target acquisition, while the red dot was perfect for closer-range drills. After zeroing each optic, I settled in for some practice, and the rail provided a rock-solid platform for both.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the XS Sight Systems rail has proven itself to be a reliable and durable addition to my Marlin 336. I’ve taken it on a couple of deer hunts in the dense forests of Pennsylvania. The rail shows no signs of loosening or shifting, even after repeated recoil from .35 Remington rounds.
The blued finish has held up well, with only minor wear marks from normal handling. Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe-down with a lightly oiled cloth is all that’s needed. Compared to the factory iron sights, the XS Sight Systems setup provides significantly improved accuracy and versatility, especially in low-light conditions. It has exceeded my expectations and breathed new life into my favorite lever gun.
Breaking Down the Features of XS Sight Systems Lever Rail Marlin Model 336 35 REM Ghost Ring Mount
Specifications
- Manufacturer: XS Sight Systems.
- Material: Constructed from a combination of stainless steel and aluminum for durability and weight reduction.
- Finish: Features a blued finish to match the aesthetics of most Marlin 336 rifles.
- Weight: Weighs in at a mere 3 ounces, adding minimal heft to the rifle.
- Compatibility: Designed specifically for the Marlin Model 336 in .35 Remington.
- Mounting Options: Allows for both traditional receiver-mounted optics and forward-mounted “scout-scope” configurations.
- Sighting System: Includes an integrated ghost ring rear sight with a white stripe front sight for backup iron sight capability.
- Included Accessories: Comes with the lever rail and red threadlocker for secure installation.
- Adjustability: The ghost ring sight is adjustable for windage and elevation.
These specifications translate to a lightweight yet robust mounting solution that enhances the rifle’s capabilities without significantly altering its handling characteristics. The ability to use multiple optic configurations adds considerable versatility to the firearm.
Performance & Functionality
The XS Sight Systems Lever Rail Marlin Model 336 35 REM Ghost Ring Mount performs admirably. The rail provides a stable and secure platform for mounting a variety of optics. The ghost ring sight offers a surprisingly effective backup sighting system.
The rail’s extended length allows for optimal eye relief adjustment with different scopes. One minor drawback is that the ghost ring can sometimes interfere with low-mounted scopes in the traditional position, requiring its removal. Overall, this system meets and exceeds expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the XS Sight Systems rail is excellent. The materials feel premium, and the finish is well-executed. The rail adds minimal weight to the rifle and doesn’t negatively impact its balance.
There’s a slight learning curve with installing the rail and adjusting the ghost ring sight, but the overall design is user-friendly. Anyone familiar with basic gunsmithing can install this with ease.
Durability & Maintenance
The stainless steel and aluminum construction ensures that the XS Sight Systems rail will withstand years of use. The blued finish is reasonably durable, but some wear is to be expected over time. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication.
The solid construction suggests that this rail should last the lifetime of the rifle. Minor scratches or dings can easily be touched up with cold bluing compound.
Accessories and Customization Options
The XS Sight Systems Lever Rail Marlin Model 336 35 REM Ghost Ring Mount itself doesn’t offer many customization options. However, it opens up a world of possibilities for optics. The rail is compatible with both Weaver and Picatinny-style scope rings, offering a wide range of mounting options.
Popular accessories include scout scopes, red dot sights, and traditional rifle scopes. The versatility of the rail allows users to tailor their sighting system to their specific needs and preferences.
Pros and Cons of XS Sight Systems Lever Rail Marlin Model 336 35 REM Ghost Ring Mount
Pros
- Provides a rock-solid platform for mounting optics on a Marlin 336.
- Allows for both traditional and scout-scope mounting configurations.
- Integrated ghost ring sight offers a reliable backup sighting system.
- Durable stainless steel and aluminum construction ensures long-lasting performance.
- Simple installation process with included red threadlocker.
Cons
- Ghost ring sight may need to be removed when using low-mounted scopes.
- Designed for round barreled models only; not compatible with octagonal barrels.
Who Should Buy XS Sight Systems Lever Rail Marlin Model 336 35 REM Ghost Ring Mount?
This product is perfect for Marlin 336 owners who want to modernize their rifle with optics without sacrificing its classic lever-action feel. It’s ideal for hunters seeking improved accuracy and versatility in various lighting conditions. The integrated ghost ring sight also appeals to survivalists and those who appreciate a reliable backup sighting system.
Those who should skip this product are owners of Marlin 336 rifles with octagonal barrels, as the rail is not compatible. Also, shooters who prefer strictly traditional iron sights may not find this product appealing.
Must-have accessories for this product include a high-quality scope or red dot sight and appropriate scope rings. A cheek riser may also be necessary for optimal eye alignment with the mounted optic.
Conclusion on XS Sight Systems Lever Rail Marlin Model 336 35 REM Ghost Ring Mount
The XS Sight Systems Lever Rail Marlin Model 336 35 REM Ghost Ring Mount is an excellent upgrade for any Marlin 336 owner looking to enhance their rifle’s capabilities with modern optics. Its solid construction, versatile mounting options, and integrated ghost ring sight make it a worthwhile investment. At $142.49, the price is justified by the quality and functionality it provides.
I would highly recommend this product to anyone seeking to bridge the gap between classic lever-action aesthetics and modern sighting technology. If you’re looking to breathe new life into your Marlin 336, the XS Sight Systems rail is the way to go. Upgrade your Marlin 336 today and experience the benefits of modern optics with a classic platform!