Marlin Ballard Pacific No. 5 .32-40 Unertl Optic Single Shot Rifle, Antique

SOLD FOR: $1775

LSB#: 210906MB29

Make: Marlin Ballard

Model: Ballard Pacific No. 5

Serial Number: 27107

Year of Manufacture: 1882-1890 Antique

Caliber: .32-40

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

Markings: The bottom of the receiver is marked with the serial number “27107”. The bottom of the barrel is marked “31993”. The top of the barrel is marked “32-40”. The left side of the receiver is marked “MARLIN FIREARMS CO. NEW HAVEN CT. U.S.A. / BALLARD’S. PATENT. NOV 5. 1861.”. The scope is marked “J.UNERTL / OPT.  CO. / 11431”.  The rear scope ring base is marked “J.UNERTL” and “PAT.2208913”.

Barrel Length: 30” Octagonal

Sights/Optics: The front sight is a globe sight with a post reticle atop a ramped riser that is slotted in a base and dovetailed to the barrel. The rear sight has been replaced with a blank dovetail. The top of the barrel is equipped with a 12-power J. Unertl Ultra Varmint – Calibrated Head optic with a target dot reticle. The scope shows scattered external oxidation and operational wear. The lenses retain a decent level of visibility. The top of the receiver has two drilled, tapped, and filled holes for installation of a peep sight (not included).

Stock Configuration and Condition: The stocks are a two-piece Schuetzen set with a straight grip, cheek piece, and a Schuetzen style buttplate. The wood has been refinished. There are several splits around the wrist causing significant play between the buttstock and receiver. There are two filled holes on the bottom of the forearm and one on the comb. There are several scattered compressions, draglines, and scratches throughout the wood. There are areas of darker discoloration from age and refinishing. The LOP measures 13” & 14” from the fronts of the triggers to the back of the buttplate, which is in the white and stained with lacquer from the refinish. It also has several nicks and scratches. Overall, the stocks rate in Good condition as Antique, refinished, and not original to the gun.

Type of Finish: Blued & Case Colored

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is bright with defined rifling. There is no erosion in the bore.

Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 40% of its current metal finish. There is thinning on the leading edges of the barrel. The case coloring on the receiver has gone mute. There are scattered scratches, dings, and surface oxidation on the barrel. There are several tool marks around the lever screw on both sides of the receiver. There is scattered light erosion and pitting on the receiver and lever as well. The screw heads are slightly disfigured with serviceable slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle rates in Very Good condition as Antique.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The action closes tightly with no play between the receiver and lever. We did not fire this rifle. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.

Box, Paperwork, and Accessories: Included is the previously mentioned scope.

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 specific example is equipped with a Schuetzen style stock and a John Unertl optic. Unertl Optical Company, Inc. was a manufacturer of telescopic sights in the United States from 1934 until 2008. They are known for their 10× fixed-power scopes that were used on the Marine Corps’ M40 rifle and made famous by Marine Corps Scout Sniper Carlos Hathcock during the Vietnam War. This antique rifle is in about Very Good condition and would fit well within a Marlin Ballard rifle collection. Please see our photos and happy bidding!

Marlin Ballard Pacific No. 5 .32-40 Unertl Optic Single Shot Rifle, Antique
Marlin Ballard Pacific No. 5 .32-40 Unertl Optic Single Shot Rifle, Antique