Marlin Model 1896

[Gabriel Law]

Is the Marlin Model 1896 pump action shotgun allowed in SASS matches?  If not, why?

[Pettifogger]

No.  Marlin has issued several warnings over the years that the old Marlin shotguns are unsafe to shoot.  If the locking mechanism is not kept clean and maintained there could be catastrophic failures.  Some people called the gun the "Widow Maker" because a breech bolt locking failure could be pretty horrendous.  SASS banned the guns because of the manufacturer's warnings.

[Gabriel Law]

Thank you P.  My brother has one in practically mint condition, but it sounds like he should be flogging it.  Too bad - nice shotgun.