XS Sight Systems LeverRail Marlin 1894 Review

First Thoughts on the XS Sight Systems LeverRail Marlin 1894

The XS Sight Systems LeverRail Marlin 1894 promises to breathe new life into a classic rifle. I’ve always loved the traditional look and feel of lever-action rifles, but their sighting options can be somewhat limiting in the modern age. This rail claims to solve that by offering a versatile mounting platform for optics without sacrificing the inherent charm of the Marlin 1894.

My journey to finding this product stemmed from a desire to modernize my trusty Marlin 1894 for hunting. I wanted to improve my accuracy at longer ranges and in low-light conditions without permanently altering the rifle’s original aesthetic. I was specifically searching for a solution that would allow me to easily mount a red dot sight or a low-power scope.

Upon unboxing the XS Sight Systems LeverRail Marlin 1894, I was immediately impressed with its sleek, black anodized finish. The aluminum felt robust yet lightweight, and the overall design appeared clean and well-thought-out. It felt like a significant upgrade over some of the bulkier, less refined rails I’d seen on the market.

I considered a few other options before settling on this particular rail. The Weaver Top Mount Scope Base was a cheaper alternative, but it offered less flexibility in terms of optic placement. A full-length Picatinny rail from Midwest Industries was also tempting, but it felt too tactical and modern for my taste; it detracted from the classic lines of the rifle.

My initial impression was overwhelmingly positive. The XS Sight Systems LeverRail Marlin 1894 seemed like the perfect balance of modern functionality and traditional aesthetics. I was excited to see how it would perform in the field.

Real-World Testing: Putting XS Sight Systems LeverRail Marlin 1894 to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the XS Sight Systems LeverRail Marlin 1894 was at my local shooting range. I mounted a Trijicon RMR red dot sight on the forward portion of the rail. This allowed for a scout-style setup, maintaining a wide field of view and quick target acquisition.

The weather was slightly overcast, with a light drizzle, providing a less than ideal testing environment. However, the anodized aluminum construction of the rail held up perfectly, showing no signs of slipping or corrosion. The red dot sight remained securely mounted throughout the session.

The rail proved remarkably easy to use. Installation was straightforward, requiring only the removal of the factory rear sight and the tightening of a few screws. I immediately noticed an improvement in my accuracy at 50 yards, thanks to the enhanced visibility and precision offered by the red dot sight. There were no major issues to report after the first use.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the XS Sight Systems LeverRail Marlin 1894 has proven to be a reliable and durable addition to my Marlin 1894. I have used it during multiple hunting trips in varying weather conditions, from dry and dusty to wet and muddy. The rail has consistently maintained its zero and shown no signs of loosening or shifting.

There are minimal signs of wear and tear after extended use. The anodized finish has held up well, resisting scratches and abrasions. I occasionally clean the rail with a soft cloth and a mild solvent to remove any accumulated dirt or grime.

Compared to my previous experience with a traditional iron sight setup, the XS Sight Systems LeverRail Marlin 1894 combined with a red dot has significantly improved my shooting accuracy and speed. It has exceeded my expectations in terms of both performance and durability.

Breaking Down the Features of XS Sight Systems LeverRail Marlin 1894

Specifications

• The XS Sight Systems LeverRail Marlin 1894 is designed exclusively for Marlin 1894 rifles with round barrels. It ensures a precise and secure fit.
• It features a Picatinny rail, offering universal compatibility with a wide range of optics. This includes scopes, red dot sights, and other accessories.
• The rail is constructed from anodized aluminum, providing a lightweight yet durable mounting platform. This material resists corrosion and wear, ensuring long-lasting performance.
• It measures 11 inches in length, allowing for flexible optic placement. This allows users to mount their scope directly over the receiver or further forward for intermediate eye relief optics.
• The rail weighs just 3 oz, adding minimal weight to the rifle. This helps maintain the rifle’s balance and handling characteristics.

Performance & Functionality

The XS Sight Systems LeverRail Marlin 1894 excels at providing a stable and versatile platform for mounting optics on a lever-action rifle. It dramatically increases the rifle’s accuracy and usability in a variety of shooting scenarios.

The rail’s primary strength lies in its ability to accommodate a wide range of optics. It also allows for flexible mounting positions. The only real weakness is that it requires the removal of the factory rear sight.

The XS Sight Systems LeverRail Marlin 1894 meets and even exceeds my expectations. It delivers on its promise of modernizing the Marlin 1894 without sacrificing its classic appeal.

Design & Ergonomics

The XS Sight Systems LeverRail Marlin 1894 features a streamlined and low-profile design. This integrates seamlessly with the Marlin 1894’s existing aesthetics. The anodized aluminum construction ensures a robust yet lightweight platform.

The rail is remarkably user-friendly. The installation process is simple and straightforward. No specialized tools or gunsmithing skills are required.

Durability & Maintenance

The anodized aluminum construction ensures that the XS Sight Systems LeverRail Marlin 1894 is built to last. With proper care, it should provide years of reliable service.

Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning with a soft cloth and mild solvent. There are no small or intricate parts that are prone to damage or failure.

Accessories and Customization Options

The XS Sight Systems LeverRail Marlin 1894 is designed to be compatible with any optic that utilizes a Picatinny or Weaver-style mount. This includes a vast array of scopes, red dot sights, and holographic sights from various manufacturers.

The rail also features a pocket at the rear, designed to accommodate an XS Ghost Ring Sight (sold separately). This allows for a backup iron sight system. It also offers enhanced close-quarters shooting capabilities. No other accessories are included.

Pros and Cons of XS Sight Systems LeverRail Marlin 1894

Check Best Price HERE

Who Should Buy XS Sight Systems LeverRail Marlin 1894?

The XS Sight Systems LeverRail Marlin 1894 is perfect for hunters looking to improve their accuracy and extend their shooting range with modern optics. It is also ideal for recreational shooters who want to enhance the versatility and performance of their Marlin 1894 rifle.

Those who prefer to maintain the original iron sights of their Marlin 1894 or who are on a very tight budget should skip this product.

A must-have accessory is the XS Ghost Ring Sight for a backup iron sight option. A quality red dot sight or low-power scope will maximize the rail’s potential.

Conclusion on XS Sight Systems LeverRail Marlin 1894

The XS Sight Systems LeverRail Marlin 1894 is a well-designed and thoughtfully executed product. It effectively bridges the gap between classic lever-action rifles and modern sighting technology.

At $64.99, the price is justified considering the rail’s quality construction, versatile mounting options, and ease of installation. It offers excellent value for those seeking to modernize their Marlin 1894.

I would personally recommend the XS Sight Systems LeverRail Marlin 1894 to anyone looking to enhance the performance and versatility of their Marlin 1894 rifle. If you’re ready to bring your lever-action rifle into the 21st century, then give this rail a try.

Check Best Price HERE