Marlin M-375: A proof of excellence

Marlin M-375 lever-action rifle Marlin M-375 lever-action rifle
Marlin M-375 lever-action rifle (Photo: XY)

Marlin M-375 is a lever-action rifle chambered in .375 Winchester caliber and manufactured by Marlin Firearms Co. It was based on the design created by John Marlin in the late 1890s.

Introduction

John Mahn Marlin began making lever-action rifles and carbines in 1881, and the fact that the company he founded is still making them is sufficient proof of the excellence. There have been some small changes, but since 1889 the significant feature of the Marlin has been the solid top to the receiver and the side ejection port.

Design

The Marlin Model 375 gets its nomenclature from being chambered for the .375 Winchester cartridge, which was introduced specifically for use in lever-action rifles in order to give them a medium-to-high powered round for use in forests and close country. Note that it is a rifle rather than a carbine: the barrel is much longer than the magazine tube, and the whole weapon is three to four inches longer than the average carbine.

Marlin M-375 with mounted telescope sight
Marlin M-375 with mounted telescope sight (Photo: XY)

Marlin Action

The Marlin action retains the solid top receiver and has a cylindrical bolt which, on operating the lever, comes out from the rear of the receiver and has a cylindrical bolt which, on operating the lever, comes out from the rear of the receiver to cock the external hammer. At the same time, the cartridge lifter pivots to raise a fresh round from the magazine, and on the return stroke, the bolt chambers the round, is locked, and the rifle is ready to fire.

Sights and upper receiver

One advantage of the solid top and side ejection Marlin is that it makes life easier for fitting a telescope, and the receiver is factory drilled and tapped for a mount. Marlin has also added telescope shooters by making an extension hammer spur that protrudes to one side (either side, to choice) so that there is no danger of trapping the thumb between the hammer and telescope when cocking or lowering the hammer. Iron sights are fitted, a gold-bead foresight, and a step-adjustable rear sight with a rotatable insert that provides a choice of four notches.

Marlin Model 375 rifle is chambered in .375 Winchester caliber
Marlin Model 375 rifle is chambered in .375 Winchester caliber (Photo: XY)

Feed

The short magazine makes the rifle somewhat lighter at the muzzle than one normally expects with lever action, though this certainly helps when attempting to follow a moving target. Accuracy leans heavily upon the ammunition in use, but with the correct choice made, then groups between two and three inches are possible at 100 yards for the moderately practiced shooter.

Technical specifications: Marlin M-375

Manufacturer:Marlin Firearms Co., North Haven, CT 06374, United States
Type:lever action, centerfire, magazine
Caliber:.375 Winchester
Barrel:20 in (508 mm)
Weight (empty):6.75 lbs (3.06 kg)
Magazine capacity:5 rounds
12 comments
  1. You have to buy a used one as of now. I just acquired one a month ago from a friend. There was only 16,000 give or take produced by Marlin, between 1980-1984. Ammo that is factory loaded is about no exsistant one has to reload for this round. At this time Starline is the only brass that is factory new(go to their website). I am going to shoot hard cast lead with gas checks out of mine. Can find ones on Gunbroker & Guns International occasionally.

  2. Great rifle that was undercut by lax production standards over the years, My first was a 30-30; I have a 35 Remington in my collection. The Hornady Flex tips for lever guns was an instant game changer for useful ranges and power. Hopefully Marlin will regain lost ground under new management.

  3. have one with a 1-4 power AR type scope, shoots 200 grain Sierras, 1 1/2 ” at a hundred yards. Great gun.

  4. I bought one in 1981 still have it and it looks brand new. it has taken many deer in the time I’ve had it. I customize the stock and gave 3 to 9 Bushnell scope on it. I reload the rounds. shoots 3 shots the size of a 5 cent piece at 100 yes. great gun take that hunting where its brush hunting for deer. cant say enough about this gun. glad I bought. it’s a great gun.

  5. I need a gunstock for my Marlin 375. My gun was damaged when an EF 5 tornado destroyed my home during the April 27, 2011 tornado outbreak. Any help pointing me in the right direction would be sincerely appreciated. I love this gun and would love to pass it down to my son. Thanks!

  6. Have you considered having a gun stock craftsmen make a new one? I know COLE’s Guns in Maine makes custom shotgun fitted stocks. Maybe those guys can point you in the right direction. Pricey I’m sure but what to heck, may not have many choices. Good luck.

  7. .I bought a Marlin 375 new, taken many whitetails with it Very handy in north PA heavy cover. I have built several flintlocks, and restocked a Marlin 1894 44mag. Ron I could try doing your 375 would want to see pictures first. Need to make contact some way.

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