Marlin vs. Puma!

[The Ok Kid]

Howdy guys,
   I'm just starting off in Cowboy Shooting, bought a Vaquero in 4-5/8 (.357) and wanted to get a rifle next.  I read a good review on the Pumas in the Rifleman, and a couple people told me they were nice but it seems like a lot of people on here don't think theyre reliable or good at cycling .38's.  How do they compare to the Marlin's and any other recommendations for a beginner would be great.  I'll mostly be shooting .38 special, any rifles have problems with this or function well in this regard?
Thanks,
~The Ok Kid~

[Camille Eonich]

Go for the Marlin.  It will allow you to go farther than the '92 will.

[Four-Eyed Buck]

All lever guns are somewhat OAL picky. The Puma's seem to be moreso than the Marlins. I think I would opt for the Marlin given the choice. If you go the Puma, then shoot .357 cases in both guns.......................Buck

[RRio]

I've been shooting Rossi made 92s since they first arrived in the US in 1978. I've never had a problem with any of the many I have owned (about 8 ). Never had action work on them, just broke them in by using them. I believe the whole trick to using them is, not to baby them. I lever them like I mean business.
A whole lot of folk like China Camp, Claudia Feather, Tex, Bounty Hunter and the likes, have used them. China Camp, I believe, won EOT 1993 using one.

[Wymore Wrangler]

I agree with Rawhide if you know how to use them, they are great, put I'd still advise a newbe to get the Marlin...

[Arcey]

I believe the whole trick to using them is, not to baby them. I lever them like I mean business.

If you look at my '92 you'll notice the lever is bent from workin' it hard.  That was with less than a year of shootin' on the clock.

I switched to Marlins 'n never looked back.  That'll be ten years ago come December.

[Dakota Dan from OZ]

Go for a Marlin.I have had my 38=357 for over 6 years and all I shoot in it are 38s loaded with125 grn F/Points and it will shoot them all day, everyday.

Dakota 

[Missouri Marshal]

Marlin all the way!

[Silver Creek Slim]

I've never shot a Rossi '92. I own a .45 colt and .44 Mag Marlin. Never had a problem with either one.

Slim

[Modoc]

Best bet, get to a local match and handle them both (if not the match, at least go to the local gun shops and do a side by side comparrison).  I have shot both, but personal preference is still the 1892 action, even though the Marlin is easier to disassemble/reassemble and may be able to run a little faster (in others hands ).  Someday I'll have a Marlin to go with the 5 '92s (and maybe even a '73).