Safety First: The Foundation of Responsible Gunsmithing
Before you begin your Marlin 60 Action Assembly project, ensure your rifle is completely unloaded. Physically inspect the chamber to verify that no ammunition remains. Remove the magazine tube if possible (field stripping will be covered later). Place yourself in a well-lit workspace, free from distractions. Wear appropriate eye protection throughout the entire procedure. Safety glasses will keep you from getting any flying parts in your eyes, and are essential for a safe and enjoyable experience. Have a clean, organized area to work in, preferably with a workbench or a stable surface. This will also make finding any dropped or lost small pieces easier.
Essential Tools for the Task
To successfully perform the Marlin 60 Action Assembly, you’ll need a few essential tools. While some gunsmiths might have specialized tools, the following list will cover the basics:
You’ll need a set of screwdrivers. A set of flathead screwdrivers of varying sizes is essential, including a good, well-fitting screwdriver to prevent stripping screws. A Phillips head screwdriver may also be necessary for some models. Precision screwdrivers are highly recommended.
A punch set will also be required. Punches are critical for removing and installing roll pins, and a roll pin punch set is highly recommended. Make sure that the punches are the right size, or else you can damage your action.
A small hammer is a must-have for tapping punches and driving pins.
Cleaning solvent and lubricant are key. You will need these to properly clean, degrease, and lubricate the various parts of your rifle.
You’ll need shop towels or cleaning patches.
A Marlin 60 parts diagram or schematic is incredibly helpful. You can find these online. It’s almost impossible to remember the exact placement of every spring, pin, and lever. A parts diagram will be your best friend, allowing you to identify parts and see how they fit together.
While not strictly necessary, a bench block or vise with soft jaws can significantly help stabilize the receiver during assembly. This will reduce the likelihood of damage.
Tweezers or small pliers can assist in handling small springs and pins.
The Starting Point: The Action
This guide focuses specifically on the Marlin 60 Action Assembly. Therefore, we assume that your rifle is already field stripped. Disassembly of the rest of the rifle is not the focus of this guide. The receiver should be clear of the barrel, stock, and other components. You should be left with just the bare receiver and the various internal parts. This is the beginning of the process for the Marlin 60 Action Assembly that we will focus on.
Putting it Together: A Detailed Guide to Marlin 60 Action Assembly
Preparing the Foundation: The Receiver
Begin by ensuring your receiver is thoroughly cleaned. Remove any old grease, debris, or remnants of previous cleaning. Use a suitable cleaning solvent and a brush or cleaning patch to ensure a pristine internal surface. A clean receiver will ensure proper function and prevent malfunctions. After cleaning, apply a light coat of gun oil or a suitable lubricant to the inside of the receiver. This lubrication will help the moving parts slide smoothly during the Marlin 60 Action Assembly process.
Assembling the Core: The Bolt
The bolt is the heart of your Marlin 60 Action Assembly’s firing mechanism.
Begin by carefully inserting the bolt body into the receiver. The bolt should slide smoothly within its channel.
Next, insert the firing pin and its corresponding firing pin spring into the bolt body. The firing pin is the component that strikes the rim of the cartridge to ignite the primer.
Secure the firing pin by installing the firing pin retaining pin. This pin is often a roll pin and will need to be tapped in gently with a punch and hammer. Ensure the pin is flush or slightly recessed to avoid interfering with the bolt’s movement.
Controlling the Fire: The Sear Assembly
The sear is a critical piece that engages the hammer, holding it back until the trigger is pulled.
First, install the sear spring. The sear spring pushes the sear and ensures a good engagement with the hammer. The sear spring’s proper placement is crucial for trigger function.
Next, insert the sear itself into the receiver.
Finally, install the sear pin. Like other pins, this may be a roll pin. Use a punch to seat the pin securely. Ensure the sear moves freely after installation.
Delivering the Impact: The Hammer Assembly
The hammer is the part that strikes the firing pin. The Marlin 60 Action Assembly demands proper installation of the hammer.
Insert the hammer and its corresponding hammer spring.
Install the hammer pin. This is a standard solid pin in most cases.
Once the hammer is assembled, manually check its movement. Ensure the hammer rotates freely and engages properly with the sear. This is important for reliable firing.
The Trigger: Controlling the Release
The trigger is what initiates the firing sequence.
Insert the trigger spring. This spring helps return the trigger to its forward position.
Insert the trigger itself.
Secure the trigger with the trigger pin. As always, make sure the pin sits flush to prevent snagging and interference.
Ejecting the Brass: The Ejector Assembly
The ejector is responsible for removing the spent cartridge case after firing.
Insert the ejector spring into its designated slot or recess.
Insert the ejector into the receiver.
Push the ejector until it is securely installed. This may involve some gentle pressure.
Additional Crucial Components
You’re almost at the end of the Marlin 60 Action Assembly. Certain components may need installation, depending on the specific model.
Install the lifter spring.
Install the lifter itself. The lifter is responsible for raising cartridges into the chamber.
Install the feed throat. The feed throat guides cartridges into the chamber.
Verifying Function: Testing and Checking
Before you reassemble your rifle, conduct several important checks.
Check the bolt’s cycling action. Manually cycle the bolt, ensuring it moves smoothly through the receiver and back. There should be no binding or resistance.
Test the trigger pull. Ensure the trigger engages the sear and releases the hammer cleanly. The trigger pull should be smooth and crisp.
Test the safety mechanism, if applicable.
Conduct a dry-fire test. Carefully dry-fire the rifle (make sure it’s unloaded!) to ensure all components function properly. Watch for the firing pin to strike the breech face.
Final Steps: Reassembly of Your Rifle
After verifying that your Marlin 60 Action Assembly is working correctly, you may carefully reassemble the rifle.
Slide the assembled action into the stock.
Attach the barrel and magazine tube assembly to the action.
Carefully install and tighten all screws. Tighten them gradually and evenly to avoid stressing the stock.
Understanding and Solving Potential Issues
Even after a successful Marlin 60 Action Assembly, you may encounter a few issues. Knowing how to diagnose and address these problems is essential.
Failure to Fire: If the rifle fails to fire, check the firing pin. Is it striking the rim of the cartridge? Is the firing pin free to move?
Failure to Eject: If the rifle fails to eject spent casings, inspect the ejector. Is it seated correctly? Is the ejector spring working?
Failure to Feed: Problems feeding cartridges can be linked to the lifter. Ensure the lifter is functioning correctly.
Sticking Bolt: If the bolt sticks, check for any debris or burrs in the receiver or on the bolt body.
Light Primer Strikes: If the firing pin is not striking the primer with enough force, the hammer spring may be weak.
Keeping it Clean and Well-Maintained
Regular cleaning and maintenance are vital to the longevity of your Marlin 60 Action Assembly and the rifle as a whole.
Clean your rifle after each use. This removes powder residue and other contaminants that can lead to malfunctions.
Proper lubrication is critical. Use a high-quality gun oil or lubricant to protect the metal components from corrosion and ensure smooth operation.
In Conclusion
The Marlin 60 Action Assembly is a rewarding project that can bring new life to your favorite plinker. By following these steps, you can ensure your rifle functions reliably and safely for years to come. Remember to prioritize safety, work carefully, and don’t hesitate to seek professional assistance if needed. Regular maintenance, including cleaning and lubrication, is essential for maintaining optimal performance. If you encounter any unusual issues or require more in-depth expertise, consider reaching out to a certified gunsmith. They possess the knowledge and experience to diagnose and resolve any complex issues.
Additional Resources
Look online for diagrams and illustrations of the Marlin 60 action. These are often available on gun forums and websites.
Gun forums are a great place to meet others, share knowledge, and seek advice.
Local gun stores.
