First Thoughts on the XS Sight Systems Lever Rail Ghost Ring Marlin 336 Sight
The XS Sight Systems Lever Rail Ghost Ring Marlin 336 Sight is a name that resonates with lever-action enthusiasts seeking to modernize their trusted rifles. As someone with over a decade of experience working with outdoor and tactical gear, I’ve seen countless iterations of sighting systems, but the promise of marrying classic lever-action functionality with modern optic capabilities piqued my interest. This system from XS Sight Systems aims to enhance the versatility of the iconic Marlin 336, allowing for both traditional iron sight use and the mounting of optics.
I was looking for a way to improve the accuracy and versatility of my Marlin 336 without sacrificing its classic feel. The factory sights, while functional, felt limiting in various lighting conditions and at longer ranges. Unboxing the XS Sight Systems Lever Rail Ghost Ring Marlin 336 Sight, I was immediately struck by the robust build quality of the rail and the distinct, no-nonsense design of the ghost ring sights. The anodized aluminum rail felt lightweight yet solid, and the steel ghost ring components exuded durability.
Compared to other aftermarket sight options like Skinner Sights or traditional receiver-mounted peep sights, the XS Sight Systems offering stood out due to its integrated rail system. This allows for the flexibility to switch between a scope, red dot, or the ghost ring sights themselves, a feature I found particularly appealing. My initial excitement stemmed from the prospect of breathing new life into my Marlin 336, turning it into a more adaptable and capable rifle. The potential for improved accuracy and faster target acquisition had me eager to hit the range.
Real-World Testing: Putting XS Sight Systems Lever Rail Ghost Ring Marlin 336 Sight to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the XS Sight Systems Lever Rail Ghost Ring Marlin 336 Sight was at my local shooting range, a familiar environment for testing new gear. I zeroed the rifle at 50 yards using both the ghost ring sights and a red dot optic mounted on the rail. The ghost ring sights proved to be surprisingly quick to acquire targets, offering a wide field of view and intuitive alignment.
The white stripe front sight contrasted well against the dark backdrops of the range. In the bright sunlight, the ghost ring performed admirably; however, I wanted to see how it performed in mixed lighting conditions. I found the system particularly helpful in low light scenarios where the ghost ring’s ability to gather light was a huge benefit. I did notice that the smaller aperture (.191″) required more precise aiming, which slowed down target acquisition slightly.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, including a deer hunting trip in the dense forests of Pennsylvania, the XS Sight Systems Lever Rail Ghost Ring Marlin 336 Sight has proven to be remarkably durable. Despite some bumps and scrapes in the field, the rail and sights remain securely mounted, with no signs of loosening or damage. Cleaning the system is straightforward, requiring only a quick wipe-down with a cloth and solvent to remove any fouling or debris.
Compared to my previous setup with the factory sights, the XS Sight Systems upgrade has significantly improved my shooting experience. The ability to easily switch between the ghost ring sights for close-range, fast-action scenarios and a magnified optic for longer shots has dramatically increased the rifle’s versatility. The increased accuracy and confidence I’ve gained in the field are a testament to the quality and design of this system.
Breaking Down the Features of XS Sight Systems Lever Rail Ghost Ring Marlin 336 Sight
Specifications
The XS Sight Systems Lever Rail Ghost Ring Marlin 336 Sight is designed as a comprehensive upgrade for Marlin 336 lever-action rifles. The system includes a lightweight, anodized aluminum Picatinny rail, allowing for flexible optic mounting options. This rail is machined to precise Picatinny specifications.
The rear sight is a fully adjustable, all-steel ghost ring sight, offering both windage and elevation adjustments. Two apertures are included: .230″ and .191″ inside diameter, catering to varying lighting conditions and shooting preferences. The front sight features a blued steel body with a painted white stripe, designed for high visibility in all lighting conditions. Alternate front sight heights are available to address potential zeroing issues caused by the change in rear sight location.
Performance & Functionality
The XS Sight Systems Lever Rail Ghost Ring Marlin 336 Sight significantly enhances the Marlin 336’s performance by providing a versatile and accurate sighting system. The ghost ring sights enable fast target acquisition, especially in close-quarters situations, while the Picatinny rail allows for the mounting of scopes or red dot sights for longer-range accuracy. The system’s adjustability allows for precise zeroing, ensuring consistent shot placement.
One minor weakness is the potential for zeroing issues due to moving the rear sight from the barrel to the receiver, though this can be resolved with the appropriate front sight height. Overall, the system exceeds expectations, offering a significant improvement in both speed and accuracy compared to the factory sights.
Design & Ergonomics
The XS Sight Systems Lever Rail Ghost Ring Marlin 336 Sight features a thoughtful and practical design. The lightweight aluminum rail adds minimal weight to the rifle, preserving its balance and maneuverability. The ghost ring sights are robust and well-protected, and the white stripe front sight is highly visible and easy to align.
The system is relatively user-friendly, although some gunsmithing skills may be required for installation. Once installed, the sights are intuitive to use, requiring minimal adjustment or training.
Durability & Maintenance
The all-steel construction of the ghost ring sights and the durable anodized aluminum rail ensure the XS Sight Systems Lever Rail Ghost Ring Marlin 336 Sight is built to last. The system is designed to withstand the rigors of regular use in the field, maintaining its accuracy and reliability over time. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and lubrication.
Accessories and Customization Options
The XS Sight Systems Lever Rail Ghost Ring Marlin 336 Sight is primarily designed as a standalone sighting system, but its Picatinny rail allows for extensive customization with various optics. Scopes, red dot sights, and even scout scopes can be easily mounted on the rail, providing users with a wide range of sighting options. The availability of alternate front sight heights allows for fine-tuning the zero, ensuring compatibility with different ammunition types and shooting preferences.
Pros and Cons of XS Sight Systems Lever Rail Ghost Ring Marlin 336 Sight
Pros
- Versatile optic mounting: Picatinny rail allows for easy mounting of scopes, red dots, or scout scopes.
- Fast target acquisition: Ghost ring sights provide a wide field of view and intuitive alignment.
- Durable construction: All-steel ghost ring sights and anodized aluminum rail are built to withstand heavy use.
- Improved accuracy: Adjustable sights allow for precise zeroing and consistent shot placement.
- Enhanced visibility: White stripe front sight is highly visible in various lighting conditions.
Cons
- Potential zeroing issues: Moving the rear sight to the receiver may require adjustments to the front sight height.
- Requires gunsmithing skills: Installation may require some gunsmithing skills or professional installation.
Who Should Buy XS Sight Systems Lever Rail Ghost Ring Marlin 336 Sight?
The XS Sight Systems Lever Rail Ghost Ring Marlin 336 Sight is perfect for hunters, especially those who hunt in dense forests or mixed terrain. It is also great for shooters who want to modernize their Marlin 336 without sacrificing its classic lever-action functionality. Anyone seeking faster target acquisition and improved accuracy will find this system beneficial.
This product might not be ideal for purists who prefer the original iron sight setup of the Marlin 336. It also may not be best for those completely unfamiliar with gun modifications or those unwilling to seek professional installation. A must-have accessory is a set of quality scope rings if planning to use an optic.
Conclusion on XS Sight Systems Lever Rail Ghost Ring Marlin 336 Sight
The XS Sight Systems Lever Rail Ghost Ring Marlin 336 Sight is a worthwhile upgrade for any Marlin 336 owner looking to enhance their rifle’s versatility and performance. While the $189.99 price tag may seem steep to some, the benefits of improved accuracy, faster target acquisition, and optic mounting options justify the cost. The enhanced durability and thoughtful design make it a reliable addition to any lever-action rifle.
I would personally recommend the XS Sight Systems Lever Rail Ghost Ring Marlin 336 Sight to anyone looking to modernize their Marlin 336 without sacrificing its classic appeal. Upgrade your rifle today and experience the difference!