Marlin Firearms Co. 39M Octagon 20” .22 S/L/LR Lever Action Rifle 1973 C&R
SOLD FOR: $1,906.00
LSB#: WY250318BR096
Make: Marlin
Model: 39M
Serial Number: 27125150
Year of Manufacture: 1973
Caliber: .22 Short, Long & Long Rifle
Action Type: Lever Action, Tube Magazine Fed Rifle
Markings: The top of the barrel is marked “MOD 39M OCTAGON THE MARLIN FIREARMS CO. / NORTH HAVEN, CONN., U.S.A.”, “CAL.22 S.L.L.R.”. The top tang is marked “27125150”.
Barrel Length: 20”, Octagon
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a beaded blade dovetailed to the barrel. The rear sight u-notch elevator sight. The top of the receiver is mounted with a scope rail.
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. The belly has a Marlin “bullseye”. There is light handling wear. The LOP measures 13 5/8″ from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. There are no chips or cracks. There are a few minor scrapes and compressions. The stocks rate in about Very Good overall condition.
Type of Finish: Blue
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 10/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 98% of its metal finish. There is light operation wear and a few minor handling marks. The screw heads range from sharp to faintly tool marked. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle rates in about Fine condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. This rifle has a half-cock safety. The action is smooth and the trigger is crisp. 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 Firearms Co. 39M Octagon is a rare and highly collectible lever-action rifle, produced only in 1973 with a limited run of approximately 2,140 units. Chambered in .22 Short, .22 Long, and .22 Long Rifle, this model stands out for its 20-inch octagon barrel, which adds both historical flair and improved balance for target shooting or plinking. It features a straight-grip walnut stock and a blued finish, reflecting Marlin’s commitment to quality craftsmanship during the era. Like others in the Model 39 family, it uses a solid-top receiver and side ejection, a hallmark of Marlin’s post-World War II designs.
The 39M Octagon incorporates a takedown design, making it easy to disassemble for cleaning or transport, and its tubular magazine holds up to 16 rounds of .22 LR. Its combination of classic styling, smooth lever action, and limited production has made it especially desirable among collectors and Marlin enthusiasts. With its roots tracing back to the early 20th-century Model 1891 and Model 39, the 39M Octagon represents a unique bridge between heritage and limited-edition design, making it a standout piece in any rimfire rifle collection. Please see our photos and good luck on your bid! – L.S.
