I have a .444 Marlin, Micro-groove that was built in about 1971.
The fit and finish is fine and it functions well.
I have killed numerous Deer, and more then a few Coyotes with it.
It is a heavy beast as well.
I recently, (last week) bought one of the new 1895CB 45-70's with the 26" barrel.
I paid $650 for the Marlin.
I did agonize over the purchase and did look at the Chiappa Ridgerunner and the Henry.
The chiappa is way overpriced, $1100.00, and the Henry, although a very nice rifle was a bit short for what I want to do.
The new Marlin functions the same as my elderly .444, rather smooth for a new born.
The fit and finish is actually well done, from the wood to the metal.
The carrier inside is a little rough but I think I can fix that.
The wood is smooth, but could use a coat or three of Balistol, (sp), or some other type finish.
But, it is more of a matte finish, which fits my style pf things.
The barrel is a bit more shiny than the receiver.
(Marlin either needs to just Matte finish the whole thing or make it all shiny, BUT, the thing does look nice)
I am going to replace the front and rear sight with Brockman sight.
I may change out the loop as well.
I wear size 12 gloves, so the loop is small.
But overall, the manufacturer does appear to being paying attention to what people are saying, for the most part.