EGW SCOPE BASE MARLIN 1895/336 Review

First Thoughts on the EGW SCOPE BASE MARLIN 1895/336

The EGW SCOPE BASE MARLIN 1895/336, offered by EGW (Evolution Gun Works), is designed to bring modern optic mounting solutions to classic lever-action rifles. This Picatinny rail provides a stable and versatile platform for mounting a variety of scopes and other accessories, updating these trusted rifles for enhanced performance. The appeal lies in its simplicity and potential to dramatically improve the accuracy and versatility of a beloved firearm.

I was drawn to this particular scope base because I recently inherited my grandfather’s Marlin 1895. While I cherish the rifle’s history, my aging eyes struggle with the iron sights, especially in low-light conditions. I needed a reliable way to mount a modern optic without permanently altering the rifle’s classic aesthetic.

Upon unboxing, I was immediately impressed by the EGW SCOPE BASE MARLIN 1895/336’s solid construction. The base feels substantial and well-machined, with a clean, matte black finish. The weight is reassuring, indicating a durable build without adding excessive bulk to the rifle.

I considered several other options, including dovetail-mounted rails and more complex, multi-piece systems. However, the EGW SCOPE BASE MARLIN 1895/336 stood out due to its simple installation process, full Picatinny rail compatibility, and reputation for rock-solid stability. This simple mounting solution appeared to be the best balance of ease of use, functionality, and price, versus other more complicated and/or less stable options.

My first impression was excitement tempered with cautious optimism. While the base appeared to be well-made, I was eager to see how it would perform in the field and whether it would truly live up to its promise of providing a stable and reliable optic mounting platform on my Marlin 1895.

Real-World Testing: Putting EGW SCOPE BASE MARLIN 1895/336 to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the EGW SCOPE BASE MARLIN 1895/336 at my local shooting range. The weather was typical for early fall: slightly overcast with a mild breeze. I mounted a Leupold VX-Freedom 1.5-4×20 scope, a proven optic that I know well, to the base.

Installation was straightforward, with the EGW base aligning perfectly with the existing mounting holes on the Marlin receiver. After tightening the screws to the recommended torque, the base felt incredibly secure. The scope sat low and close to the bore, which is critical for maintaining a proper cheek weld and achieving accurate shots.

The difference was immediate. With the scope mounted on the EGW SCOPE BASE MARLIN 1895/336, my groupings tightened considerably at 100 yards. I was able to consistently hit a 6-inch target, which was a significant improvement over my iron sight accuracy. There were no initial issues. Everything felt solid and functioned as expected.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the EGW SCOPE BASE MARLIN 1895/336 continues to perform flawlessly. I’ve taken the rifle on several hunting trips in varying conditions, from dry and dusty to wet and cold. The base has remained rock-solid, showing no signs of loosening or shifting.

The finish has proven to be surprisingly durable, with only minor wear marks despite being exposed to brush and the elements. Cleaning is simple: a quick wipe-down with a lightly oiled cloth after each use is all that’s needed to keep the base in top condition. It has exceeded expectations in terms of reliability and durability.

Compared to some of the cheaper scope mounts I’ve used in the past, the EGW SCOPE BASE MARLIN 1895/336 is in a different league. It’s a testament to the value of investing in quality components, and this difference shines through when looking at how this base performs compared to other more inexpensive options.

Breaking Down the Features of EGW SCOPE BASE MARLIN 1895/336

Specifications

The EGW SCOPE BASE MARLIN 1895/336, is a Picatinny rail specifically designed for Marlin 1895/336 lever-action rifles and the Henry 3030/4570. It is crafted from lightweight aircraft aluminum, ensuring durability without adding unnecessary weight. The base features a matte black anodized finish for corrosion resistance and a sleek, low-profile design.

• Caliber Compatibility: Designed to fit Marlin 1895 (45-70 Gov’t), Marlin 336 (30-30 Win), and Henry 3030/4570 lever-action rifles. This offers versatility for owners of different lever-action platforms.
• Material: Constructed from lightweight aircraft aluminum. This choice ensures strength while minimizing added weight to the rifle.
• Finish: Features a matte black anodized finish. The finish provides excellent corrosion resistance and reduces glare, which is beneficial in hunting situations.
• Mounting Interface: Standard Picatinny rail with multiple slots. This allows for flexible scope placement and easy attachment of other accessories.
• Price: A compelling price of $26.99, makes this a very economical option for enhancing your rifle platform.

These specifications are important because they directly impact the performance and usability of the scope base. The aluminum construction ensures it can withstand the recoil of powerful cartridges like the 45-70 Gov’t, while the Picatinny rail provides a secure and adaptable platform for mounting a wide range of optics.

Performance & Functionality

The EGW SCOPE BASE MARLIN 1895/336 excels at providing a stable and repeatable mounting platform for optics on lever-action rifles. It allows for quick and easy scope changes without losing zero, which is crucial for hunters and competitive shooters alike. The base’s low-profile design helps maintain a comfortable cheek weld, improving accuracy and reducing felt recoil.

Its primary strength lies in its simplicity and robustness. The straightforward installation process and durable construction ensure years of reliable service. However, one potential weakness is the lack of integrated iron sights, requiring the removal of the scope to use the factory sights.

Overall, the EGW SCOPE BASE MARLIN 1895/336 meets and exceeds expectations. Its reliability and ease of use make it a valuable upgrade for any lever-action rifle owner.

Design & Ergonomics

The EGW SCOPE BASE MARLIN 1895/336 features a clean, minimalist design that complements the classic lines of the Marlin 1895/336 and Henry 3030/4570 rifles. The base is lightweight and adds minimal bulk to the rifle, preserving its balance and handling characteristics. The low-profile design ensures that the scope sits close to the bore, which enhances accuracy and reduces parallax.

The base is user-friendly and requires no specialized tools or gunsmithing for installation. The only learning curve might be proper torque settings for the mounting screws, but these are readily available online.

Durability & Maintenance

The EGW SCOPE BASE MARLIN 1895/336 is built to last. Its aircraft aluminum construction and anodized finish provide excellent resistance to corrosion and wear. With proper care, the base should last for many years of regular use.

Maintenance is minimal: a quick wipe-down with a lightly oiled cloth after each use is all that’s needed to keep the base in top condition. The simple design also makes it easy to inspect and clean any dirt or debris that may accumulate.

Accessories and Customization Options

The EGW SCOPE BASE MARLIN 1895/336 is compatible with any optic that utilizes a standard Picatinny rail mounting system. This includes a vast array of scopes, red dot sights, and other accessories from various manufacturers. While it does not come with any additional accessories, its compatibility with the Picatinny rail system opens up a wide range of customization possibilities. Owners can easily add lights, lasers, or other tactical accessories to their rifles.

Pros and Cons of EGW SCOPE BASE MARLIN 1895/336