.308 Marlin Express

Introduced in 2007 by Marlin Firearms in collaboration with Hornady, the .308 Marlin Express was designed to bring modern ballistic performance to the lever-action rifle platform. The platform’s purpose was to offer hunters the power and flat trajectory of the .308 Winchester cartridge but in a package compatible with traditional tubular magazines. To achieve this, .308 Marlin Express combined a unique case design based on the .307 Winchester, operating at high pressures, with Hornady’s innovative Flex Tip (FTX) bullets, allowing for safe use in tubular magazines and providing improved aerodynamics and reliable expansion. This caliber revitalized interest in lever-action rifles for long-range hunting, making it a significant advancement in both firearms and ammunition technology for reloaders and lever-action enthusiasts.

In terms of application, the .308 Marlin Express is ideally suited for both hunting and target shooting, especially for those who prefer the handling and aesthetics of a lever-action rifle. With its high velocity and flat trajectory, it is competitive with modern short-action bolt rifle cartridges, yet it fits comfortably in classic Marlin Model 336 and similar rifles. Its effective range—accurately stretching to 300 yards or more—makes it a versatile option for hunting in various terrains, from Eastern forests to open Western fields. For reloaders, the .308 Marlin Express presents a unique opportunity to develop loads that maximize performance in lever guns, blending nostalgia with cutting-edge ballistics.

When it comes to target species, the .308 Marlin Express is particularly suited to game such as deer, antelope, black bear, and even feral hogs. Its energy retention, accuracy, and reliable expansion make it an excellent choice for medium-sized game, while the innovative FTX bullets ensure safe and consistent performance in tubular magazines. Many hunters also appreciate its moderate recoil, striking a balance between controllability and stopping power, further broadening its appeal to a wide audience that includes younger or recoil-sensitive shooters.

Reloaders working with the .308 Marlin Express will typically encounter bullet weights in the 150- to 160-grain range, with Hornady’s 160-grain FTX bullet being the standard and most widely available choice. The cartridge is engineered for high-pressure operation—up to 46,000 psi—so careful attention to loading data and component selection is essential. The case itself features a slightly rebated rim and optimized body taper to cycle reliably in lever-action mechanisms. Tackling the unique configuration, reloaders can experiment with various powders to fine-tune velocity and accuracy, though many will start with recommendations from reputable reloading manuals. With the right handloads, the .308 Marlin Express reliably delivers approximately 2,650 feet per second at the muzzle with 160-grain bullets, providing flat trajectories and impressive downrange energy—making it a favorite for those wishing to extract maximum performance from their classic lever guns without venturing into magnum territory.