The Burris Marlin 336/444/1895 Fastfire Red Dot Reflex Sight Mounting Plate Made a Bold First Impression
I’ve spent over a decade fine-tuning my lever-action rifles for various scenarios, from thick-brush hunting to fast-action target shooting. The classic lines and inherent accuracy of the Marlin 336, 444, and 1895 rifles are undeniable. However, the factory iron sights often leave something to be desired in terms of speed and low-light performance. That’s where the Burris Marlin 336/444/1895 Fastfire Red Dot Reflex Sight Mounting Plate comes in, promising to seamlessly integrate a modern red dot optic onto these iconic rifles.
The need was simple: I wanted faster target acquisition without sacrificing the inherent balance and aesthetics of my Marlin 336. Red dot sights offer a significant advantage in close-quarters situations and when shooting on the move, scenarios I frequently encounter during hog hunts. The Burris mounting plate seemed like the perfect solution, offering a low-profile and secure platform for my Fastfire red dot.
Upon unboxing, I was immediately impressed by the clean lines and robust construction of the mounting plate. It’s a small piece, but it feels solid and well-machined. The matte finish complements the blued steel of my Marlin, giving it a cohesive look.
Compared to other mounting options I’ve explored – some universal rails that require gunsmithing, and others that sit too high – the Burris plate stood out for its simplicity and direct fit. I considered a scout scope mount, but it altered the rifle’s balance too much for my liking. The Burris mounting plate promised a cleaner, more streamlined solution. My initial excitement was definitely high; I was eager to see if it lived up to the promise of easy installation and rock-solid performance.
Real-World Testing: Putting Burris Marlin 336/444/1895 Fastfire Red Dot Reflex Sight Mounting Plate to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Burris Marlin 336/444/1895 Fastfire Red Dot Reflex Sight Mounting Plate was at my local shooting range. I wanted to zero the optic and get a feel for the setup before taking it into the field. The installation was surprisingly straightforward, taking only a few minutes with basic tools. Once mounted, the Fastfire sat securely on the plate, providing a clear and unobstructed sight picture.
The range was relatively sheltered, so weather conditions weren’t a major factor that day. However, I made a point of practicing transitions between targets at varying distances. The red dot, combined with the low-profile mount, allowed for significantly faster target acquisition compared to the iron sights. After about 50 rounds, the mounting plate remained firmly in place with no signs of loosening or shifting.
My only initial concern was the height of the red dot above the bore. While low-profile, it still raised the cheek weld slightly, requiring a conscious effort to maintain proper eye alignment. However, this was a minor adjustment and something I quickly adapted to.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Burris Marlin 336/444/1895 Fastfire Red Dot Reflex Sight Mounting Plate has proven to be remarkably durable. I’ve used it in a variety of conditions, from rainy hog hunts in dense swamps to dusty days at the range. The plate has held up admirably, showing no signs of rust or corrosion.
There’s been no significant wear and tear to speak of. The mounting screws remain tight, and the Fastfire continues to sit securely on the plate. Maintenance is minimal; a quick wipe-down with a lightly oiled cloth is all it takes to keep it in top condition.
Compared to other aftermarket accessories I’ve used on my Marlins, the Burris mounting plate stands out for its simplicity, reliability, and ease of use. It has definitely exceeded my expectations in terms of durability and performance.
Breaking Down the Features of Burris Marlin 336/444/1895 Fastfire Red Dot Reflex Sight Mounting Plate
Specifications
The Burris Marlin 336/444/1895 Fastfire Red Dot Reflex Sight Mounting Plate is specifically designed for pre-drilled and tapped Marlin 336, 444, and 1895 lever-action rifles. The finish is a matte black, intended to blend seamlessly with the rifle’s existing aesthetics. It provides a low-profile mounting solution for the Burris Fastfire red dot sight.
The plate’s dimensions are compact to minimize bulk and weight. The durable construction ensures a secure and stable platform for the optic. The precise machining guarantees a perfect fit and reliable performance. These specifications matter because they ensure a solid and repeatable zero, essential for accurate shooting.
Performance & Functionality
The Burris Marlin 336/444/1895 Fastfire Red Dot Reflex Sight Mounting Plate performs its job exceptionally well. It provides a rock-solid platform for mounting a red dot sight, enabling faster target acquisition and improved accuracy, especially in low-light conditions. The low-profile design maintains the rifle’s balance and handling characteristics.
The primary strength is its simplicity and effectiveness. It’s a straightforward, no-nonsense solution that delivers on its promise. A minor weakness might be the slight increase in cheek weld height required for some shooters. However, this is easily addressed with a cheek riser or adjustable stock. Overall, it meets and exceeds expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent. The materials used are durable and well-finished. The mounting plate is lightweight and doesn’t add noticeable bulk to the rifle. The design is user-friendly, requiring minimal installation effort. There’s virtually no learning curve; anyone familiar with basic tools can install it.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its robust construction and durable finish, the Burris Marlin 336/444/1895 Fastfire Red Dot Reflex Sight Mounting Plate is expected to last for many years of reliable service. The finish resists rust and corrosion, even in harsh environments. Maintenance is simple: wipe it down with a lightly oiled cloth after use. Repair should not be required unless subjected to extreme abuse.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Burris Marlin 336/444/1895 Fastfire Red Dot Reflex Sight Mounting Plate does not come with any specific accessories beyond the mounting screws. Its primary function is to provide a platform for the Burris Fastfire red dot sight. It might be compatible with other micro red dot sights that share the same mounting footprint, but this should be verified before purchase.
While it doesn’t offer extensive customization options, the ability to easily mount a red dot sight significantly enhances the rifle’s versatility. Shooters can further customize their setup with different red dot brightness settings and reticle options offered by the Fastfire.
Pros and Cons of Burris Marlin 336/444/1895 Fastfire Red Dot Reflex Sight Mounting Plate
Pros
- Provides a rock-solid mounting platform for Burris Fastfire red dot sights.
- Enables faster target acquisition and improved accuracy.
- Maintains the rifle’s balance and handling characteristics.
- Easy to install with basic tools.
- Durable construction and corrosion-resistant finish.
Cons
- Slightly raises cheek weld height, potentially requiring adjustment.
- Specifically designed for Burris Fastfire; compatibility with other red dots may vary.
Who Should Buy Burris Marlin 336/444/1895 Fastfire Red Dot Reflex Sight Mounting Plate?
The Burris Marlin 336/444/1895 Fastfire Red Dot Reflex Sight Mounting Plate is perfect for hunters who need faster target acquisition in close-quarters or low-light situations. It’s also ideal for lever-action enthusiasts who want to modernize their classic rifles without sacrificing their inherent balance and aesthetics. Those who enjoy fast-action target shooting and appreciate the improved speed and accuracy a red dot sight provides will also find it a valuable addition.
Someone who prefers traditional iron sights or who isn’t interested in mounting a red dot optic should skip this product. It’s also not necessary for those who primarily shoot at long ranges where a magnified optic would be more beneficial.
A must-have accessory is the Burris Fastfire red dot sight itself. A cheek riser might also be necessary for some shooters to achieve optimal eye alignment.
Conclusion on Burris Marlin 336/444/1895 Fastfire Red Dot Reflex Sight Mounting Plate
The Burris Marlin 336/444/1895 Fastfire Red Dot Reflex Sight Mounting Plate is a simple yet effective solution for mounting a red dot sight on classic Marlin lever-action rifles. The price of $48.49 is absolutely justified given its robust construction, ease of installation, and the significant performance improvement it offers. I personally recommend it without hesitation.
If you’re looking to modernize your Marlin 336, 444, or 1895 and gain a significant advantage in speed and accuracy, this mounting plate is an excellent choice. Don’t wait – upgrade your lever-action today and experience the difference a red dot can make!