
It has been more than six decades since the first rifle 336 was introduced. However, its popularity seems to never go down, especially when there are a lot of Marlin 336 for sale recently.
One of the things you should invest in for your Marlin 336 is definitely the scope. It not only helps you see better, but it also offers a wider range of targets, from standstill to moving.
Unfortunately, the number of scopes in the market is surging.
Don’t be freaking out. I’m here to help.
Quick summary table
Marlin 336 scope | Magnification & Objective | Product Detail |
---|---|---|
![]() Leupold VX-1 Highlights • A versatile 3:1 zoom ratio erector system • 1/4 MOA precision finger click adjustments • Waterproof, fog proof • The Multicoat 4 lens system • Leupold's Proprietary nitrogen sealing process | 3-9x40mm | |
![]() Nikon ProStaff Riflescope Highlights • Fully coated, high-quality optics • Zero-reset turret with spring-loaded adjustment knob • Water and fog resistance • Nikoplex reticle • Fast focus eyepiece; | 3-9x40mm | |
![]() Nikon ProStaff Riflescope (Nikoplex) Highlights • Compact • Fully multi-coated optics • Zero-reset turret with spring-loaded adjustment knob • Absolute waterproof and fog proof integrity • Nikoplex reticle • Quick-focus eyepiece | 2-7x32mm | |
![]() Leupold Rifleman Highlights • Multi-coat 4 lens system • Classic quick focus eyepiece with a low profile lock ring • A versatile 3:1 zoom ratio erector system • Micro-friction dials • Fully waterproof and fog proof | 4-12x40mm | |
![]() Simmons Truplex Highlights • Fully multi-coated optical system • True Zero fingertip windage and elevation adjustment system • Quick target acquisition eyepiece | 3-9x40mm |
Table of Contents
How To Choose The Best Scope For The Marlin 336
The scope has a broad number of dimensions. Length, weight, magnification, objective, the field of view, eye relief… To name a few.
However, you don’t need to compare all those things.
To be honest, you can’t. Nobody can.
So here are the things you should carefully look for in your scope.
Weight
First thing first, the total load on your hand is important. The Marlin 336 is designed to be handy. About 3.18 kg. Suitable for chasing small, fast-moving animals. You don’t want to weight it down and losing your targets because of carrying such a burdensome rifle.
Moreover, the scope weight can affect the balance of your Marlin 336. Hence, a light-weight option is more reasonable.
Magnification
The purpose of the scope is to help you see further so of course, you have to care how much further it helps you. The maximum firing range, to be specific.
A Marlin 336 owner shouldn’t go over 4x with the power range because that’s where you get the clearest view of your targets. Also, the Marlin 336 is not made for shooting that far.
Plus, the further you see, the heavier the scope is.
Again, it’s no good to carry a weighty rifle.
So better go for 2x or 3x.
Glass and Coating
The most essential part of the scope is, without a doubt, the lenses.
And what are lenses made of?
Glass, for sure.
High-qualified glass absolutely gives you a clear, satisfactory vision. Remember that you don’t need too many layers because it increases heaviness.
And for the scope that can stand the time with you, a protective coating is necessary. Fully multi-coated lenses are the most ideal choice as each coating layer performs a different function.
For example slightly color block, water resistance, scratch resistance.
Furthermore, the structure of your scope should be strong and durable to water, fog, shock. Aluminum is a common material for the body of the scope while the gasket is sealed around lenses to prevent oxygen.
Now that the Marlin 336 is up for sales, why not invest in an additional scope to better your hunting skill?
Top 5 Shocking Best Scopes For Marlin 336
It is very lucky for me to have experienced all in the top 5 scopes for Marlin rifle. Therefore, why not write a detailed review for each rifle scope I mention above?
Hope that this will help you gain an overall look in each of the best scopes for Marlin 336.
#1: Leupold VX-1

Every hunter or everyone wanting to take hunting serious must have heard of Leupold, a legacy for top quality rifle accessories with numerous value-added features.
No wonder Leupold has some of the best scopes for your Marlin 336.
Leupold VX-1 is something you can count on.
It has a 3:1 zoom ratio, which the most common among Leupold scopes. The obvious benefit is to keep stable light for the scope, yet easy to adapt to unusual hunting scenarios.
Thanks to the aircraft grade aluminum alloy of the body, the Leupold VX-1 is approximately 11 ounces, which is very handy especially for new hunters.
Another thing I like about it is the Duplex reticle with thinner posts. This enables you to have less image obstruction and much clearer view. Magnification is also variable, so this Leupold VX-1 can be used in a lot of situations.
Some other features for durability such as waterproof, fog proof, thermal shock resistance are also found in Leupold’s products. So your investment is definitely worth.
Moreover, you will fall in love with the easy to adjust dials of VX-1. The one-of-a-kind finger-clicks makes things quick and effortless for you when you want to change the dials.
Overall, just as its shiny and smooth outlook, Leupold VX-1 is like a star in the world of rifle scopes. The best scope for Marlin 336 also.
Pros:
- Sleek design
- Perfect weight
- Versatile and durable
- Easy to adjust
Cons:
- Not ideal for long range shots
#2: Nikon ProStaff Riflescope

Besides Leupold, Nikon is another well-known brand for making top quality scopes at the best price. A plus point for Nikon’s products is that the company offers a lifetime warranty policy, in which your defected scope can be repaired or replaced for free.
If Leupold VX-1 comes with an easy to adjust dials, the hand-turn click adjustments of Nikon will not let you down. Not only more precise, but also more stable.
The Nikon ProStaff Riflescope is extremely suitable for long range shooting. The unique Nikoplex reticle which was developed from spot-on ballistic match technology assists your field of view a lot, making shooting from a far distance more correct.
Nikon ProStaff has some of the best lenses too. All layers are multi-coated with anti-reflective compounds. It brings ultimate light transmission, vivid and bright sight pictures, and maintains maximum brightness from dawn to dusk.
Last but not least, this Nikon stuff goes with a ready-kit for hunting. In addition to the PROSTAFF 3-9×40 Matte Nikoplex Riflescope, you will have A-SERIES Medium Riflescope Rings and Nikon Scopecoat.
What to ask for more?
Pros:
- Affordable
- Clear and accurate
- Effortless adjustment
- BDC reticle
- Lifetime guarantee
Cons:
- The size is somewhat too large
- No mount ring included
#3: Nikon ProStaff Riflescope (Nikoplex)

Another son of Nikon appears in the top list for scope rifle is the Nikoplex.
You still have all the best points of the Nikon ProStaff Riflescope but for closer ranges. This version gives you 2-7 times magnification, a 32mm objective lens while the form offers 3-9, 40mm (magnification, objective respectively).
Therefore, Nikoplex is an excellent choice for your Marlin 336 if you usually chase within a short distance.
Furthermore, the 2-7 magnification, 32mm objective model is slightly lighter than its brother. Still a compact body, water resistance, fog resistance, 100% light transmission, precise hand-turn click to adjust and lifetime warranty.
What a perfect addition to all lever-action rifle for close ranges!
It is especially suitable for beginners.
You are new to hunting and want to practice shooting near targets?
This is the best.
However, aiming at further points can create blurry pictures. So consider your level of hunting before buying.
Pros:
- Durable structure
- Perfect magnification and objective
- Precise hand-turn click to adjust
- Lifetime guarantee
Cons:
- Suitable for short-range only
- No mount ring included
#4: Leupold Rifleman

No inferior to Nikon, Leupold also has another name for best scopes for the Marlin 336. It’s is Leupold Rifleman.
I have to say, Leupold’s design is the best.
This model? No exception.
Made of premium materials, the Rifleman looks like a luxurious decoration to your Marlin 336. Interestingly, the supplement can do much more than this. It really does the job.
In comparison to the VX-1, the Rifleman is even more strong and durable.
4 lenses of the scope are all fully coated, making sure that you have a clear and sharp visual field with enough light under the worse condition. You don’t have to worry about the rain and the fog which may accidentally happen.
Additionally, the nitrogen sealing process, which is the creation of Leupold and also the industry standard, greatly upgrades the sturdiness of the scope. Though it may be a bit out of your budget, it is a long-term investment.
Another progress of the Rifleman is micro-friction dials. Among the 3 kinds of dials, finger clicks of VX-1, hand-turn clicks of the Nikon, the micro-fiction of the Rifleman gives me the most correct adjustments, making ways for easy windage and elevation.
Pros:
- Stylish look
- Sturdiness
- Precise dials
- Great vision even in bad weather
Cons:
- Expensive
- No lenses cover
#5: Simmons Truplex

Last but not least in my top 5 scopes for the Marlin 336 is a product from Simmons. Though Simmons seem to less famous than the other two competitors, they still bring to the rifle scope market some of the best options.
One of those is certainly the Simmons Truplex.
Are you looking for the scope that is budget friendly yet delivers quality features? Well, Simmons Truplex Riflescope might be a suitable option for you.
The most obvious advantage of this scope is its price. Compared to the other 4 models above, the Simmons Truplex is the budget-friendliest, yet still has some essential features.
Optics are protected with multi-coated layers.
The Truplex can very well resist water, fog and recoil, guarantee great performance in extreme climate and increase longevity.
It is also the lightest scope, which is only more or less 10 ounces.
Nevertheless, the dials are not really smooth and effortless. You will need some time to get used to the hard zero-in and knobs. But then the True Zero fingertip windage and elevation adjustment system is super safe and secure.
Pros:
- Lightweight
- Cost-effective
- Durable features
Cons:
- Hard to get to zero
What Is The Best Scope For Marlin 336?
After taking all those things: performance, endurance, features, dimensions, price… into account, I will choose the VX-1 as the best price for the Marlin 336.
It is versatile, sturdy, easy to use, not too weighty and of course has a sleek design. Despite its cost, you can put your trust in it no matter you are an amateur or a professional in hunting.
So if you are considering to buy a Marlin because it is on sale or you just want to upgrade your scope, Leupold VX-1 is my recommendation for you.

FAQs
1. Does the Marlin 336 come with the scope?
Unfortunately, no. The Marlin 336 for sale now does not have the scope. But then, some versions are equipped with a buckhorn rear sight. This enables you to chase for targets within 80-100 yards in very good lighting conditions.
2. Do beginners need the scope for the Marlin 336?
From my perspective, the scope for lever action rifles is necessary regardless of your level. Without the scope, your visibility is limited and you can only hunt in good weather with enough light.
3. How to mount the scope to a Marlin 336?
The Marlin 336 is drilled and tapped for the scope so you need to purchase a compatible scope, match it into the rifle’s receiver. Remember to unload your Marlin 336 before doing anything.
4. Is “fully coated” different from “multi-coated”?
Yes, there is some small distinction between these terms. If your scope is fully coated, each layer of the lenses is coated. As for multi-coated, each of the lenses is coated with multiple layers. Normally, the best scopes will be fully multi-coated.
5. The scope with a reticle or without reticle?
First, the reticle is a thin liner in your scope lenses. Some find it distractive, some think it’s great to assist your aiming point. As for me, I believe reticle is a must. Trust me, it really enhances precision. For the Marlin 336, Duplex reticle and BDC reticle are the best.
Now you know my top 5 rifle scopes for the Marlin 336. From my experience, I like the Leupold VX-1 the best. It is an ideal combination of design, performance and durability.
My top-of-mind option may not be your choice, due to budget, due to magnification and so on. But I hope that this writing is helpful for you in choosing the scope for your Marlin 336.
You can find a suitable Marlin 336 for sale everywhere.
But a right rifle scope for it may require some research to find out.
Related articles