Member Review: Marlin XT 22LR Rifle with Scope

Marlin XT .22LR

The newest upgrade to Marlin XT .22LR series of bolt action rimfires, is the Pro-Fire Adjustable Trigger system. Originally, the XT series just had a wider target trigger shoe, with no real noticeable change to the actual trigger pull weight. But this new adjustable trigger system allows you customize your trigger pull weight between 3 to 6 lbs. My trigger at its lowest setting was a very crisp 3 1/2lbs, with no creep in the trigger pull. Well…..except maybe the creep pulling the trigger

The XT-22 series of bolt guns is chamber 22 Short, 22 Long, 22 Long Rifle and 22WMR. Offered in both tube or magazine fed configuiration. My interest was in the mag fed 22 Winchester Magnum Rifle (WMR) offering.

Marlin XT .22LR Trigger

Like all Marlin 22s, the XT line up features Marlins propriety and extremely accurate Micro-groove rifling. They claim that 16 shallower grooves gives you a better gas seal and less bullet deformation. All l know is my other Marlins are extremely accurate.

This rifle has a 22″ Sporter barrel with a 1 in 16″ twist rate The rudimentary sights are ok, but at least it has sights. There barrel is nicely polished and blueing is very well done. Rather nice to see in a gun of this price range.

Again, like all of Marlins 22 rifle, the receiver has a grooved receiver for tip off mounts. But it also comes drilled and tapped for scope bases. I also liked having a reachable thumb safety and they reduced the force required to operate the bolt.

I was expecting a “hardwood stock” as advertised, but this gun arrived with a beautifully finished laminate stock. Laminates tend to be a little bit heavier to carry, but are also a lot stronger. The pistol grip has a nice palm swell and the high comb was perfect hight for my low scope rings. And it came with sling studs installed. Another thing you don’t see much these days.

Marlin XT .22LR Scope

My only complaint was that the barrel was not free floated. The left side tip of forend was touching the barrel and l could not slide a bill down then down. l may open up the barrel channel a little bit before l take it out again.

My choice of choice of optics for my latest Coyote rifle was the 3×9 Burris E1 with the ballistic reticle. And Andrew……l paid for this rifle, but won the scope at my clubs award banquet as a door prize 🙂

For $300 plus free shipping from Cabelas, its one of the best deals out there on a percission 22mag. Now l just have to tweet the stock a little bit.

Thomas

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