Marlin Firearms Co Model 39 .22 S/L/LR 24” Lever Action Rifle 1925-1932 C&R
SOLD FOR: $1,300.00
LSB#: LSB250731EK014
Make: Marlin
Model: 39
Serial Number: S8220
Year of Manufacture: 1925-1932 (Some Model 39’s have been recorded with an S prefix)
Caliber: .22 Short, Long & Long Rifle
Action Type: Lever Action, Tube Magazine Fed
Barrel Length: 24” Octagonal
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a beaded blade dovetailed to the barrel. The rear sight is a v-notch elevator sight dovetailed to the barrel. The top and left side of the receiver are drilled, tapped, and filled. The tang is drilled, tapped, and filled for a tang sight (none present).
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are a two piece smooth walnut set with a capped forearm, Marlin S-shape pistol grip, straight comb, and checkered black hard rubber buttplate. The belly has a Marlin “Bullseye”. There are scattered handling marks. There is a crack in the grain on the right side of the buttstock. The LOP measures 13 3/8” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. 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 8.5/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 65% of its metal finish. Most of the finish has turned to a dark patina. There is oxidation and minor erosion with some pinprick pitting. There is thinning on the leading edges and at the muzzle. The screw heads are sharp to tool marked with strong slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle rates in about Very Good 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 Model 39 is an American classic with roots that stretch back to the Model 1891 and the famed Marlin Model 1897. As the first .22 caliber lever-action rifle to feature a solid top and side ejection, the Model 39 helped define the standard for rimfire lever guns. Produced between 1922 and 1938, this example—with its S prefix serial number—was likely manufactured between 1925 and 1932. Built with a 24” octagonal barrel, pistol grip stock, and tube magazine, it’s a quintessential small-game and plinking rifle from the golden age of American rimfires.
This rifle retains about 65% of its original finish, now showing an honest thinning, patina, and oxidation. However, the bore is impressively bright with sharp rifling, and the action remains smooth and functional. It’s a testament to Marlin’s build quality that this rifle remains a solid shooter nearly a century later. Whether for restoration, nostalgic range time, or simply as a piece of early 20th-century firearm history, this C&R-eligible Marlin 39 has earned its place among the greats of American rimfire design. Please see our photos and good luck on your bid! – L.S.
