NCOWS modification Q??

[Outrider #72622]

I am in SASS but am also interested in shooting some NCOWS.  My question is this:   
I know SS kits are not allowed.  What if a fella had a Marlin 44mag/44sp or 357mag/ 38sp modified to shoot the 44sp or 38sp "only" pretty much eliminating the old Marlin jam.  Now, in the process, this shortened the stroke on the lever by an inch or so.  Would this be legal or considered a SS kit?
I am asking this because, when I get back from Iraq, I want to shoot good old Americano.  The pistols are no problem.  I can go USFA, Ruger or Colt.  The rifle is a different story.  Marlin is pretty much the only "affordable" choice and I have heard and seen some pretty good shooters get stopped in their tracks with this "Marlin jam".
Thanks ahead of time for any info!
Outrider

Oh yea, I hope to see a lot of you guys at the NCOWS Greenhorn shoot with the Crab Orchard Cowboy Shootis in Clay, KY on Sept 29th.

[Irish Dave]

Outrider:

Many thanks for posting the inquiry, as it's always best to ask first than to risk bucks on unapproved stuff.

Our National Judge John "Trap" Torrence, his authenticity committee and the Congress itself are the official and definitive arbiters of such questions, but my opinion would be that if the modifications done resulted in a shortened lever stroke (even as a by-product) such mod would not be permitted.

Hopefully Trap will provide an "official" opinion.

[Bow View Haymaker]

NOt all marlins are as OAL sensative.  Ihave a buddy that shoots specials in his .357 with no problem.  you can always download .357mag cases also.  I shoot a Rossie '92 that handles the specials fine as well.  the Rossie .92 can still be had in the same price range as the marlin. 
Just my $.02
Happy shootin'

[St. George]

That modification would effectively result in a short-stroked weapon.

I'd try using the piece awhile before anything was done to it - run a couple hundred rounds through it.

Not all Marlins are as 'sensitive' as some would have one believe, and usually all they need is a thorough cleaning and lubrication - stoning away any burrs that might be visible after continued use.

Vaya,

Scouts Out!

[Buffalow Red]

my marlin 1894 in 44 mag has a carrer problem with mag's but feeds specals just fine

[Trap]

   If the stroke is noticeably shortened it would probably not be legal. Take your rifle to the shoot you are going to and get an opinion from the Local Match Director or Local Judge. If you have not had this done to your rifle yet, those suggestions of trying it out first are your best bet.   Good Luck, and we'd enjoy your presence at any NCOWS match, and I think you would enjoy our style of WAS.      jt

[Steel Horse Bailey]

I think ol' Trap has hit it on the head.  (He IS the Judge, after all.  )

IMHO, if it isn't noticeable to speak of, it ain't much of a problem.  If you intentionally SS it, I'll bet it's MORE shortened than what is done your way.

And congratulations on choosing a FINE American made rifle. 

Do you load?  If so, just use .357 cases.  No problem there.  I guess the real reason for 38 Spl. would be the availability of cheap commercial ammo.  I haven't loaded ANY 38 Spl. OR 44 Spl rounds in at least 25 years ... but I've loaded tens of thousands of Special powered rounds but in Mag cases.    And, as has been mentioned, try some long-nosed 38s in your rifle, it may think it's a .357 and keep on going.