Jimbo,

I think the purpose is simply to secure the lever in the closed position. The one on my 1894CB was pretty rough as well but I polished / stoned it and it made a big difference...much easier to open and close now.

I would polish it well and see if that addresses you concern.

 

It's because of the design of the internal parts. With Marlin's two-piece firing pin, the firing pin spring will try to push the lever open. The plunger is there for a reason. I would keep it, but lighten the spring.

 

It's because of the design of the internal parts. With Marlin's two-piece firing pin, the firing pin spring will try to push the lever open. The plunger is there for a reason. I would keep it, but lighten the spring.

Thanks for the replies. I'll polish the plunger and try a lighter spring.

 

No need to buy another spring, one can clip it a half coil at a time until you reach what you want. Just go slow, chop too much and you will be buying a replacement.

 

Do the polishing and try it before you start cutting the spring.

John

 

Out of curiosity, if I replaced the two-piece firing pin with a sold pin, would there then be a need for the lever plunger and locking bolt? Seems like it wouldn't be necessary. I ask because I am going to use her as my backup CAS rifle, so I'd like to make her as fast as possible.

 

A one-piece firing pin is a great upgrade, it will really smooth out the action. The kit Long Hunter Shooting Supply sells has the one-piece pin, and lighter springs for the hammer and plunger. You don't want to remove the locking bolt, it's what keeps the bolt from flying back into your eye! With the lighter plunger spring, you'll never know that plunger is there.

I like the tool steel one-piece pin. http://www.longhunt.com/gunparts/marlin.htm

 

Thanks for all the replies. I did order the single piece firing pin kit from Long Hunter. While waiting for it to arrive, I went ahead and removed the lever plunger and spring; clipped the spring a bit and polished the plunger nicely. I also polished the lever and lever screw shank. After putting it back together, it is a much much smoother.

While I had the plunger out,I put the lever back in to test cycle. It's no fun to cycle without the plunger. Takes a bit of effort to hold the lever closed - more so than on my 73 Winchester clone. Anyway, good advice from all, thanks again.

 

Hi there okc-jimbo, wanting to ease my action, but struggling with removing the retaining pin for the plunger. What size punch did you use? Think i need a smaller punch as it just wont move. Thanks in advance for your help.