Marlin Model 55 Hard Bolt Lift

[whitemtncruiser]

I recently purchased a Marlin Model 55 Goose Gun in 12 gauge. It has a 3" chamber and has been converted into a slug gun with front and rear sights added and the barrel shortened somewhat from the original 36". I fired it today for the first time and found that with all 3" shells (factory, various brands, birdshot) it was difficult to raise the bolt after firing. I didn't need tools or have to force it real hard and the bolt retracted without difficulty but the intial bolt lift felt noticeably stiff. I did not encounter this same stiff bolt lift after firing 2 3/4" shells. Does anyone have experience shooting the model 55 that could shed some light on this? Is this a trait of this older model? I see no other pressure signs and no abnormalities in the chamber or bore that might be causing this. Thanks.

 

[kudu]

I don't know for sure but the old goose guns may have only been chambered for 2 3/4". Does it say on the barrel shell length? 3" mags did't really come out until the 70's I think.

 

[expat_alaska]

My Grandfather had a Marlin bolt action 12 gauge 3-shot that was chambered for 2-3/4" shells, but I don't remember the model number. My uncle inherited it in 1965 after Grandpa died and I never saw it after that.

Not saying yours is not a 3" gun.

Jim

 

[whitemtncruiser]

This one is definitely stamped 3" and 3" shells drop in no problem. Looks like the goose guns were made into the 80's according to some online sources. I suppose I'll stick to 2 3/4" shells if I can't come up with a solution.