Marlin Ballard Pacific No. 5 .38-55 Long Case 30″ Single Shot Rifle Antique
SOLD FOR: $2591.99
LSB#: 210906MB30
Make: Marlin Ballard
Model: Ballard Pacific No. 5
Serial Number: 29903
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 left side of the receiver is marked “MARLIN FIRE ARMS CO. NEW HAVEN CT. U.S.A. / BALLARD’S. PATENT. NOV. 5. 1861.”
Barrel Length: 30” Octagonal
Sights/Optics: The front sight is a blade dovetailed into the barrel. The rear sight is a semi-buckhorn V-notch elevator sight. 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 with a hole in the front for the included cleaning rod, straight grip, straight comb, and a crescent steel buttplate. The wood appears to have been refinished at some point. There are numerous tiny draglines and compressions on the buttstock. The forearm shows weathering with several compressions and small nicks. There are two small splits on the right side of the wrist and one on the left. There are no chips. The LOP measures 13 5/8” & 12 5/8” from the fronts of the triggers to the back of the buttplate, which shows scattered erosion. Overall, the stocks rate in Good-Plus condition as Antique and refinished.
Type of Finish: Blued & Case Colored
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: Both bores are bright with sharp rifling and no erosion.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 65% of its finish. There is thinning at the leading edges of the barrel. The case coloring has gane completely mute on the receiver and lever. There are several nicks and dings throughout the barrel as well as faint surface oxidation. The screwheads show light use with serviceable slots. The markings are legible. Overall, this rifle rates in Fine condition as Antique.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this rifle. The set trigger is light as a feather. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork, and Accessories: There is a cleaning rod installed uner the barrel.
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 installed original cleaning rod. Please see our photos and happy bidding!