Marlin Firearms Co. Model 45 .45 ACP 16.5″ Semi Automatic Rifle, MFD 1992

SOLD FOR: $1725

LSB#: 210425RJ26

Make: Marlin

Model: Model 45 Carbine

Serial Number: 08692410

Year of Manufacture: 1992

Caliber: .45 ACP

Action Type: Blowback Operated Detachable Magazine Semi-Automatic Carbine

Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “THE MARLIN FIREARMS CO. NORTH HAVEN, CT. U.S.A. / MODEL 45 – MICRO-GROOVE BARREL – CAL. 45 AUTO” and the right side of the barrel has the “Warning”. The left side of the receiver is marked “08692410”.

Barrel Length: 16 ½”

Sights / Optics: The carbine is mounted with a hooded orange plastic front sight blade set in serrated ramp’s dovetail. There is a folding semi-buckhorn rear sight with an elevator dovetailed to the barrel. The top of the receiver is equipped with a Weaver style rail. Also included is a Weaver scope with a fixed 2.5x magnification and a duplex reticle. The scope shows some usage marks. The lenses are just a touch cloudy. The scope rates in about Very Good overall condition.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The one piece stock is smooth stained hardwood with a semi-pistol grip, straight comb, sling swivel front and back with an attached sling, and a brown rubber Marlin butt pad. The black canvas sling shows light wear with no rips or tears and strong stitching, it rates in about Fine-Excellent overall condition. There is a hairline crack between the bottom plastic and front assembly screw. Other than that, there are just a few minor marks scattered about. The LOP measures 14” from the front of the trigger to the rear of the butt pad, which shows a bit of material loss at the toe. The stocks rate in about Very Good overall condition but would rate higher if not for the split.

Type of Finish: Blue

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is dark and there is the typical Marlin Micro-Groove in good condition. There is no erosion.

Overall Condition: This carbine retains about 97% of its metal finish. The balance of the finish shows a few scattered minor marks on the receiver. The bolt shows light operational wear. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall, this gun rates in about Fine Plus condition.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. There is a magazine disconnect safety. The spacing for the scope mounts are the same as a Marlin Model 336. The safety is mounted in the forward portion of the trigger guard, similar to the M1 Garand. There is a bolt hold back (and release) on the side of the magazine well, just behind the magazine release button. The Marlin magazine is a copy of the Colt 1911 magazine and this gun should function properly with most 1911 magazines. We did not fire this carbine. As with all previously owned firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This pistol comes in a serial matching box with paperwork including a manual, previously mentioned scope and sling, and a total of three 11-round magazines. The box shows light storage rubs and no rips or tears, in about Fine condition. The magazines show light operational wear with strong springs and intact feed lips, rating in about Fine condition. Please note, no magazines will be included where prohibited by law.

Our Assessment: These are nifty little carbines and a good companion for anyone who already owns a single stack 1911 since they can take the same ammo and magazines. They take the same scope mounts as the Marlin 336 lever action 30-30, so mounts are easily available. The Camp Carbine lends itself particularly well to red dot sights if iron sights seem to be getting smaller and fuzzier. The same receiver top spacing lets you mount some of the Williams peep or fiber optic sights (but you may have to install a higher front sight in the front dovetail.) The Camp Carbine was discontinued by Marlin in 1999 and a small cult has grown up around them. They can work well for home defense, especially for people who find the 1911 difficult to manipulate and shoot or desire a long gun but are worried about over penetration. Please see our photo and good luck!

Marlin Firearms Co. Model 45 .45 ACP 16.5" Semi Automatic Rifle, MFD 1992
Marlin Firearms Co. Model 45 .45 ACP 16.5″ Semi Automatic Rifle, MFD 1992