I have shot both, and they are both great guns.
Marlin 60: I much prefer the trigger on the Marlin out of the box. I also find the Marlin to be more accurate out of the box. The Marlin is tube feed, so it limits you on capacity. The Marlin has cycled every ammo we have ran through it. The downside is there are not a lot of aftermarket parts.
10/22: High capacity mags are cheap and plentiful. There are a lot of modifications available for them. From triggers, stocks, barrels, etc. So, if you want to upgrade it the 10/22 winds hands down. Mine is very picky on ammo. Federal Champion seems to work the best in terms of bulk ammo. The velocitors and stingers work 100% of the time. Both will serve you will. The biggest thing is if you plan on keeping it stock. Or, you plan on upgrading it.
Anything particular to look for?No reason not to buy used, the saying " don't make 'em like they used to" applies to both rifles. If i were to be looking for one I think I would prefer used.
Thanks Joe, that's what I have been hearing. Not sure I want to spend another $200 on a $200 rifle.I bought a new 10/22 this summer, my wife bought a Model 60 at the same time.
I've found that my 10/22 is more reliable, but the Marlin is much more accurate.
The trigger on the Ruger is heavy, gritty, just not good. Front sight is crapaliscious, all but useless in the woods. The stock is fat and clunky. Despite all that, I like the gun. It just keeps working, and has lots of potential if I decide to spend the money to mod it and make it the way I want. New sights, new VQ hammer, new stock. IOW, spend roughly another $200 on it.
Frankly, if I were to buy again, it would probably be the Model 60. It works just fine without spending the extra money, and feels lighter, better balanced, and quicker handling in the woods.... but I can't customize it like I can the Ruger, which seems like it could be fun, too.
Thanks but I really like the look of the 60 plus I like the idea of tube fed - again I'm not sure I want to dump a bunch of $ into a "cheap" .22. To me accuracy is more important.I have a 10-22 because of their reputation for reliability. Can't say I've been blown away by the accuracy, but I only shoot federal bulk pack cheapo stuff. The 10-22 will nickel and dime you to death with accessories. I bought a $40 kit ot make the trigger lighter and more criso and it really did, then I bought a $60 hogue stock. All that and the aftermarket mags are still only half arse reliable.
I grew up with a marlin 60 and it was great, but in a 22lr I want something I can just dump ammo with because it's cheap and it gets it out of my system. I'm thinking about one of the marlin 70PSS papoose rifles. Marlin accuracy, but with removable mags and a very compact design that could come in handy. You may want to look at the marlin 795's.
Thanks but I really like the look of the 60 plus I like the idea of tube fed - again I'm not sure I want to dump a bunch of $ into a "cheap" .22. To me accuracy is more important.
Can I pick up the speed loader at a Dick's or Gander or is that something I would find online?Nothing wrong with wanting the 60. They actually make speed loaders for tube fed 22's too. I think you'll still get great accuracy out of any marlin 22lr regardless of the action style. They've got making 22lr's down to a science.