Mine is stamped JM and the first 2 numbers are 97. The cross bolt safety came out way before Rem took over, to my understanding
I thought the first 2 numbers were the year of production, but I am not sure that;s right as I think mine is much newer
Marlin levers have been around a long time and serial #'s have changed several times, some years have single letters, some double letters and some no letters. I never bothered doing any research on them until I bought 1, then another in the last year or so. I as many were winchester snobs and thought Marlins were for those that couldn't afford winchesters. now having owned both, I like diff features of each. marlins will dissasemble much easier for cleaning from breach to muzzle, I preffer the curved lever of the Marlin and think the action and trigger may actually be smoother and lighter. on the + for win's esp the xtr models, if going with open sights, I like the top eject, think you are getting better quality wood/metal and wood to metal fit, believe they cost much more to make and assemble, the straight grip feels and carries better. how they were able to stay open for so long when competing with Marlins that sold for much less is beyond me, they must have been losing serious $. if I were able to get my win 375xtr, customized to my fit and eyesight back from G.B., I'd gladly sell my scoped Marlin 1973 336, even when price/value is just going up and up, the 1952 waffle top with black walnut stocks, open sights, deep rich re-blue and pachmyer recoil pad would be tough to part with. having to buy your own stuff back, you were a dumbazz to sell in the first place, really sux. this is a perfect example for newbies of what NOT TO DO.
I'm one of those Winchester snobs, but most I own were made before 64. I have a few post 64 levers and when compared to the pre-64 guns it's like they were made by two different companies. We'll work out a trade to get that .375 XTR 94 back to you, but I'm gonna let you handle a 1934 1894 .30-30 and a 1953 model 64 in. 30-30 and you'll think the .375 XTR is a rattle trap.
