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Analysis of Marlin's Model 9 Camp Carbine Through Retrospection

Examining a 1985 review of Marlin's Camp Carbine, a 9mm blowback-operated repeater, this piece highlights one of the brand's renowned classics cherished by collectors.

Reviewing Marlin's Model 9 Pocket-Sized Carbine Gun History
Reviewing Marlin's Model 9 Pocket-Sized Carbine Gun History

Analysis of Marlin's Model 9 Camp Carbine Through Retrospection

The Marlin Model 9 Camp Carbine, manufactured by Marlin Firearms, is a semi-automatic rifle available in 9mm. With a history dating back to various models produced in the late 20th century and early 2000s, the Model 9 is a utilitarian piece weighing approximately 6 lbs., although samples received by NRA averaged 1/4 lb. less.

The carbine features a 16.62" barrel, a 12-round detachable box magazine, and sights drilled-and-tapped for optics. Its stock is made of walnut-finished hardwood, designed for both metallic sights and scopes.

The Model 9 is a pleasant gun to shoot, with recoil comparable to a .22 rifle. Both the second and third Model 9 carbines tested had trigger pulls of 8 lbs. The first carbine, however, was returned to the manufacturer before firing due to a trigger pull of about 8 lbs.

The carbine's disassembly process requires remembering to engage the safety and to remove the magazine before disassembly. This is to eliminate the danger of the hammer strut and spring flying out of the group with considerable force. The disassembly process involves loosening two stock screws, removing the magazine, retracting the bolt, pushing in the charging handle, removing two pins to remove the trigger group, and carefully repositioning the bolt stop plate when replacing the trigger group.

A notable feature of the Model 9 is the magazine disconnector, which prevents the hammer from flying forward during disassembly if the trigger is pulled while the trigger group is detached and the manual "M1-type" safety lever in the guard is disengaged.

The carbine's reassembly process can be made easier by using a thin wooden wedge to keep the bolt back during the trigger group's reinsertion.

It's worth noting that Marlin has introduced a new Model 1894 chambered for the semi-auto pistol round, specifically the 9 mm. This model, like the Model 9, requires thorough cleaning after every 250 rounds of firing, as exceeding the limit led to issues with debris blocking the bolt stop plate in testing.

Marlin's history includes producing carbines chambered for centerfire pistol cartridges, with models like the Model 1888, 1889, and 1894 available in calibers like .32-20, .38-40, .44-40, and .25-20. One such example is the Marlin Model 336T "Texan" in .44 Mag., produced from 1963 to 1967.

The Model 9's optional 20-round magazine has a stiff follower spring, making loading to capacity a chore. However, Marlin supplied a third carbine and spare buffers, which were not needed as the third gun fired several hundred rounds without breakage.

In 1969, Marlin introduced its Model 1894 "reproduction" in .44 Mag. caliber, which is still in production and now available in the .357 and .41 Mag. chamberings as well. This model, like the Model 9, is a testament to Marlin's commitment to quality and innovation in the firearms industry.

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