Marlin Firearms Co. Golden 39M 39-M 20″ JM Marked Takedown Lever Rifle 1980
SOLD FOR: $1375.05
LSB#: 220113CD001
Make: Marlin
Model: Original Golden-39M
Serial Number: 20301480
Year of Manufacture: 1980
Caliber: .22 Short, Long & Long Rifle
Action Type: Lever Action, Tube Magazine Fed Takedown Rifle
Markings: The left of the barrel is marked “The Marlin Firearms Co. North Haven. Conn. U.S.A. / CAL. 22 S. L. & L.R. MICRO-GROOVE BARREL”, “ORIGINAL GOLDEN – 39M” and with “JM” in an oval at the rear. The upper tang and inside of the left side of the receiver are marked with the serial number.
Barrel Length: 20.25”, Round
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a hooded beaded blade, dovetailed to a serrated, ramped base that is screwed to the barrel. The rear sight is a folding “U” notched leaf and elevator assembly, which is dovetailed onto the barrel. The top of the receiver is drilled, tapped, and filled for mounting an optic (not included). The left of the receiver is drilled, tapped and filled for a receiver sight (none included).
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are a two piece smooth walnut set with a capped forearm, straight grip, straight comb, checkered black hard rubber Marlin buttplate, and sling swivels front and rear. The belly has a Marlin “bullseye”. The wood shows no noteworthy imperfections, only light handling marks. The LOP measures 13 3/8″ from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The plate has a small amount of discoloration on the checkering and there is some light wear throughout; the checkering is sharp. The stocks rate in about Fine-Excellent overall condition.
Type of Finish: Blue
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the Micro-Groove rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 98% of its metal finish. There are a few faint scratches on the receiver flats and barrel that would otherwise go unnoticed.The bolt, lever and hammer have operational wear. The screw heads range from sharp to faintly tool marked. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle rates in about Fine-Excellent condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. This rifle has a neat takedown feature that allows the rifle to be disassembled into two pieces within seconds. This rifle has a half-cock safety. The action is smooth and the trigger is crisp. The extractor, ejector, and firing pin are present and intact. We have not fired this rifle. As with all previously owned firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.
Our Assessment: The Marlin Model 1891, later the Model 39 represents the longest continuously produced shoulder firearm in the world. Most of us are familiar with Marlin’s legendary 39A lever action rifle, but may not know of this pedigree. These are probably the best lever action .22’s you could buy and their longevity is testament to that. Already famous for its incredibly accurate Micro-Groove barrels, the extra few inches on this rifle will surely make a difference for that critical varmint or plinker shot. This Original Golden 39M is in Fine-Excellent condition with some light operational wear, a great bore and strong mechanics. If you’re a Marlin collector, this would be a nice addition to your safe; if you are a hobbyist that is looking for the next all-around great rimfire rifle, this is a leading candidate. Please see our photos and good luck!