Marlin The Original Goose Gun 12 Gauge Police Trade-In Shotgun | The Gun Shop
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About this product
What is the Marlin The Original Goose Gun 12 Gauge Police Trade-In Shotgun? It's a used 36-inch barreled shotgun designed for maximum pattern density at extreme waterfowl ranges. These are former police acquisition firearms showing typical service wear but solid mechanical function. They represent one of the longest production shotgun barrels ever mass-produced for civilian purchase.
What is the Marlin The Original Goose Gun used for?
This shotgun is designed specifically for pass-shooting geese at 60+ yard ranges where standard 28-inch barrels pattern too loosely. The 36-inch barrel generates approximately 15% tighter shot patterns at 50 yards compared to a typical Remington 870. It's also surprisingly effective for turkey hunting where maximum pellet energy downrange matters. These trade-ins often show holster wear but maintain solid lockup.
How does the Marlin The Original Goose Gun compare to the Christensen Arms BA Tactical?
The Goose Gun delivers superior long-range pattern density while the Christensen Arms BA Tactical .308 dominates precision rifle applications. At 8.9 pounds unloaded, the Goose Gun handles completely differently than the 9.8-pound Christensen bolt action. For waterfowl hunters needing extreme reach, the Marlin outperforms; for tactical precision, the Christensen Arms BA Tactical is vastly superior.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The Goose Gun weighs 8.9 pounds empty and measures 52 inches overall length with its 36-inch barrel. The barrel alone constitutes nearly 40% of the total weight at approximately 3.5 pounds. This creates significant forward balance that stabilizes swing but demands proper shooting stance. The 14-inch length of pull accommodates most adult shooters wearing winter hunting gear.
Who is this NOT for?
This shotgun is unsuitable for home defense or tight-quarters hunting due to its 52-inch overall length. The barrel requires 44 inches of clearance just to rotate 90 degrees. It's also a poor choice for new shooters, as the forward-heavy balance and 28-pound trigger pull weight demand experienced technique. For defensive applications, consider the Bushmaster 20" upper instead.
What's in the box?
You receive the shotgun only—no case, choke tubes, or accessories accompany police trade-ins. These firearms ship with visible holster wear and minor finish loss but mechanically sound actions. Expect typical police evidence tag markings and possible department engraving. We verify headspace and firing pin protrusion (minimum 0.045 inches) before shipment.
Is the Marlin The Original Goose Gun worth it at $253.33?
At $253.33, it represents significant value for specialized waterfowl hunters needing extreme range capability. A new modern equivalent with 36-inch barrel would cost $600+. The trade-off is accepting cosmetic wear and single-shot operation. For the niche application of pass-shooting geese beyond 60 yards, nothing else at this price point delivers equivalent pattern performance.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- 36-inch barrel delivers 15% tighter patterns at 50 yards than 28-inch barrels
- 8.9-pound weight provides exceptional swing stability for pass shooting
- $253.33 price is 58% below modern equivalent specialty waterfowl guns
- Police trade-in verification includes headspace and firing pin protrusion testing
Trade-offs
- 52-inch overall length requires specialized storage and transport solutions
- Obsolete proprietary choke system limits modern ammunition optimization
- Visible holster wear and evidence markings typical of police trade-ins
- Single-shot operation limits follow-up capability compared to repeaters
Key attributes
| Model | The Original Goose Gun |
| Caliber | 12 Gauge |
| Magazine | None |
| Barrel Length | 36 inches |
| Overall Length | 52 inches |
| Weight | 8.9 pounds |
| Choke | Fixed Improved Cylinder |
| Condition | Police Trade-In |
Specifications
| Model | The Original Goose Gun |
| Caliber | 12 Gauge |
| Magazine | None |
| Barrel Length | 36" |
Frequently asked questions
- Does this work with standard Marlin shotgun chokes?
- No, the Goose Gun uses obsolete Marlin proprietary chokes that are no longer manufactured. The fixed choke measures approximately 0.695 inches (Improved Cylinder equivalent). Aftermarket threading for modern chokes costs $150-200 at a competent gunsmith.
- Can I return it if it doesn't cycle properly?
- We test fire each trade-in before shipment to verify mechanical function. Returns are accepted within 14 days for documented mechanical failures only. Cosmetic imperfections typical of police trade-ins are not grounds for return. Contact our armorers within 48 hours of receipt for functionality issues.
- How long does shipping take to FFL dealers?
- Firearms ship within 3 business days to your provided FFL dealer via UPS Ground. Transit time averages 5-7 business days continental US. We require a signed copy of your dealer's license before shipment. International shipments require additional 10-15 day compliance processing.
- Is it compatible with aftermarket stocks?
- The Goose Gun uses unique Marlin stock dimensions that don't interchange with common Remington 870 or Mossberg 500 patterns. Boyd's Gunstocks offers custom inletting for $189+ but requires 6-8 week lead time. The original walnut stock provides adequate durability for hunting applications.