i'm certain there are alot of folks who are totally convinced you have to have 10k wrapped up in a gun to shoot half an inch. Heck, i hang out one one of "them" boards and have been told repeatedly that my rig and gear are "junk"
both pictured groups not only came from the XS7 but were loaded using the classic lee loader with a rubber mallet and a 15" long piece of 2x4 while watching that last HBO war in the sandbox series Hurtlocker or something. I posted those groups on that hiding sniper website and got accused of all kinds of stuff. the best was "anyone can group a target 10 feet away..."
I loved the reaction on the kids face who's dad was scoffing the marlin at the range the day I shot it. "hey dad, you better look at his target..." "one a' his shots missed the paper completely!" Um hmm...okay buddy...whatever you have to tell yourself to make your wallet hurt less.
I am very happy with my Marlin rifle. Actually, BOTH my Marlin rifles. I can't wait to add 2 more to the collection - I want a lever 30/30 - the classic PA deer rifle, and I want a lever 22 just cus there's something fun about a tube fed 22 rifle that will eat LR's, longs,shorts...you name it.
last comment to the OP - get the Marlin, you will not be disappointed. Provided you desire a caliber that is offered. and if not...well...you can swap out the barrel (SAME procedure as that OTHER barrel nut rifle) and you can have any caliber you want as long as it's based off the 30-06 or .308 brass
There's a couple custom guns running loose on the marlin owners board that have raised a few eyebrows too.
If you REALLY want to spend alot on a rifle, get he marlin and put a Schmitt and Bender scope on it LOL...that oughtta put a dent in the budget.
Keep in mind...the primary reason i take some flak at snipershide for the marlin is the sporter weight barrel. I simply can't keep banging away shot after shot without affecting accuracy. I'm good for 5 or 6 shots before they start walking, but let's be honest. It's a hunting rifle. My cold bore clean bore shot lands within an inch of the 5th shot fired in sequence, and that is MORE than anyone could ask out of a hunting rifle.