Recently, the Timney Lever Action Trigger for Marlin rifles got a new option – a flat trigger. Timney is offering their new flat trigger in black or nickel finish, just like the curved trigger. As much as I appreciate a classic lever action, mine is not at all traditional. So replacing the factory “floppy” trigger with a flat trigger, rather than a curved trigger was an easy decision.
While semi-auto and bolt action rifles may dominate sales, the appeal of a lever action will never fade. They’re still popular for hunting, cowboy action shooting, or just ringing some steel at the range. There’s something about them that brings out the kid in all of us. Even those who didn’t grow up watching Westerns still appreciate the simplicity of a classic lever action. Shooting one won’t turn you into a cowboy, but there’s no harm in a little dreaming. That said, mine was a prime candidate for a trigger upgrade, since so many other parts had already been replaced.
Timney Lever Action Trigger for Marlin Rifles
This new Timney Lever Action Trigger is a non-adjustable single-stage trigger with a pull weight in the 3-3.5 lb range. Offered in either a black or nickel finish, it’s easy to install with no special tools or skills required. As much as I like the look of the nickel version, the black one was more appropriate for my rifle. Timney designed this trigger to be compatible with Marlin models 336, 1894, and 1895, specifically those manufactured after 1983 with a hammer block safety. They manufacture all their triggers in the USA and back them with a lifetime warranty.
Installation of the Timney Lever Action Trigger
Installing the Timney Lever Action Trigger into my Marlin 336 only required three tools. I used a hollow ground flat blade bit, a 3/32″ punch, and patience. I read the instructions, watched a video, and then took my time. Rather than write out the instructions, I’ve embedded the official installation video below. Note that the most difficult part is compressing the hammer spring. After pushing the keeper over the spring, I used a 1/4″ bit driver to compress it. That was much easier than pushing it with my thumbs.
Range Time with the Timney Lever Action Trigger
Admittedly, I didn’t get nearly as much range time as I would have liked with the Timney Lever Action Trigger. It’s been cold and snowy here in Utah. But I can definitely feel the difference. From the factory, the floppy trigger broke at around seven pounds. Timney claims the new trigger should break between 3-3.5 lbs, and my digital trigger gauge is telling me it’s closer to 2.5 lbs. I’m not sure I trust the gauge, but it’s certainly lighter. Pre-travel is minimal, and then it hits a wall before breaking cleanly. No floppiness at all.
The Timney Lever Action Trigger is available at MidwayUSA
Closing Thoughts
Crazy light rimfire triggers for bench rifles have spoiled me, but a sub one-pound trigger isn’t ideal on most centerfire rifles. For real-world use, the Timney Lever Action Trigger for Marlin Rifles is a solid upgrade. The improved feel of the trigger and its lighter weight make my rifle more pleasant to shoot. That heavy factory trigger wasn’t helping my accuracy, and the floppy trigger never inspired confidence.
Having a flat trigger in a lever action might seem sacrilege, but my Marlin 336 is hardly a classic wood and steel rifle. With an aluminum stock and M-LOK forend, it’s a very modern take on a 100+ year-old design. The flat trigger had a more familiar feel to me, and I won’t miss the curved one at all. If there is a downside to this upgrade, it’s that now the action itself really seems to be the weak point. Next step is to take it all apart and smooth it out. No sense having such a nice trigger if the action is slow and a little rough.
At $199.95 for black, and $224.95 for nickel, the Timney Lever Action Trigger for Marlin rifles isn’t exactly inexpensive. But it’s American-made, comes with Timney’s lifetime warranty, and is backed by their decades of experience. Combined with the ease of installation, it’s a highly recommended upgrade. Find yours at the timneytriggers.com website.