Marlin Ballard Pacific No. 5 .38-55 Long Case 30″ Single Shot Rifle Antique

SOLD FOR: $2800

LSB#: 210901NT01

Make: Marlin Ballard

Model: Ballard Pacific No. 5

Serial Number: 9718

Year of Manufacture: 1882-1890 Antique

Caliber: .38-55 Long Case

Action Type: Single-Shot Falling Block Rifle with Double Set Triggers

Markings: The bottom of the receiver is marked with the serial number. The left shoulder of the barrel is marked “.38-55”. The bottom of the barrel is marked “DOUGLAS 1:12 / 38-55 2.125” and “.3665 / .375”

Barrel Length: The installed Douglas barrel is 30” and is half round, half octagonal. An additional 30” octagonal barrel is included that is chambered for .40-65.

Sights/Optics: The front sight is a blade dovetailed into the barrel. The mid and rear of the barrel have two male dovetails installed. The top of the receiver has two drilled and tapped holes for a sight (none included).

Stock Configuration and Condition: The stocks are two-piece smooth wood with schnabel tipped forearm, straight grip, straight comb, cheekpiece, and a checkered steel buttplate. There are numerous tiny draglines and compressions on the buttstock and just a few on the forearm. There are no chips or cracks. The LOP measures 13 3/4” & 14 3/4” from the fronts of the triggers to the back of the buttplate, which shows scattered discoloration. Overall, the stocks rate in Fine Condition condition.

Type of Finish: Blued & Cas Colored

Finish Originality: Refinished receiver, Original Barrel

Bore Condition: Both bores are bright with sharp rifling and no erosion.

Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 85% of its finish. The barrel shows no perceptible imperfections. Most of the case coloring on the receiver has gone mute but some can still be seen, the cas color on the lever is strong. There is some old erosion under the finish and light scratches. The screwheads show light use with serviceable slots. The markings are visible on the barrel but are completely worn from the receiver. Overall, this rifle rates in Fine condition as Antique and refinished.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this rifle. This model is one of the early cast actions, known to be weaker than the later models. This rifle should be inspected by a competent gunsmith before firing. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.

Box, Paperwork, and Accessories: Aside from the previously mentioned barrel, also included are two additional sets of stocks, one of which is the original, and spare trigger and hammer parts.

Our Assessment: The most famous Marlin-Ballard model of the Old West—the No. 5 Pacific Rifle —was nearly indistinguishable from its Montana cousin. The slightly lighter Pacific first appeared in 1882 and was in production until 1890, when a reorganized Marlin FireArms dropped the Ballard line. This rifle is in about Fine condition as Antique and comes with an additional barrel chambered for 40-65, two additional stock sets, and additional hammer and trigger parts. Please see our photos and happy bidding!

Marlin Ballard Pacific No. 5 .38-55 Long Case 30" Single Shot Rifle Antique
Marlin Ballard Pacific No. 5 .38-55 Long Case 30″ Single Shot Rifle Antique