[digbug]

well i originally posted this question in the wrong section of this forum but got a good recommendation but im re posting in i hope is the proper location for any other opinions or recommendations

Newbie here needs help with info on my 38-55 marlin model 1893 i just bought.
according to the serial number 101xxx it was manufactured in 1894 (info obtained from blue book)
The barrel is round 26 in but is not marked with special smokeless steel
Question is is it unsafe to shoot modern smokeless such as Winchester super X 255grn soft point. The dealer i got the ammo from stated it should be ok because the ammo wasnt loaded very hot. I shot 3 rounds through it with no problems yet but as im new to the pre SSS marked Marlins im not looking to blow the gun and or myself up. all the other Marlins I own are marked SSS. My simple minded self wasn't thinking that it wasnt marked "Black Powder Only" because it was prior to invent of smokeless. thanks for any help you can send me! im glad I found this sight !

 

[marlin 1893]

I think the modern smokless loaded will be mild enough if your gun is in good shape but I would stay
away from jacketed bullets and shoot cast bullets. hope this helps

 

[Four-Eyed Buck]

I would slug that barrel to make sure what the bore is. 38-55's are notorious for the dimentions being all over the map. My 1899 vintage is a generous .381. The modern smokeless jacketed stuff is closer to .375-6 in size for those Winchester commemoritives. .001 to .002 over bore size in lead should get you something usable as far as the pill goes. I'm using a 265g Montana Precision Swaging BP alloy RNFP sized at .381 with XMP-5744 for a propellant and a CCI BR-2 primer. Not sure about the rules for listing charges here, but you can PM me if you need to/want to, and I'll tell all. The load I'm using is REALLY accurate in the old girl. She's more accurate than my old myopic peepers can hold with iron sights!.......Buck 8)

 

[digbug]

thanks for the advise guys ! Four eyed buck ill probably hit you up for more suggestions. Just dont want to hurt the ol gal as she is now one of my favorites. Has silver inlay tag on the butt stock that reads " Old trusty"an im sure she is! thanks again!