Marlin Firearms Model 444 .444 Marlin 24” Lever Action Rifle 1969-1971 C&R
SOLD FOR: $1,525.00
LSB#: LSB250807EM040
Make: Marlin Firearms Co.
Model: 444
Serial Number: AD82632
Year of Manufacture: 1969-1971
Caliber: .444 Marlin
Action Type: Lever Action, fed by Tubular Magazine
Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked with Marlin’s New Haven address, and “EST. 1870- MICRO-GROOVE BARREL- MODEL – 444 MARLIN”. The right side of the chamber is marked with a “JM” proof mark. The bottom tang is marked with the serial number.
Barrel Length: 24”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a hooded brass beaded blade, dovetailed to a serrated ramp, screwed to the barrel. The rear sight is an adjustable flip-up U-notch sight with a white triangle aiming reference, dovetailed to the barrel. The receiver is drilled and tapped for optics.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are a two-piece smooth walnut stock set, with a straight grip, fluted monte carlo comb, vented rubber buttpad, sling studs front and rear, Marlin “Bullseye” in the belly, and a banded forend. The LOP measures 13 3/4″ from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttpad. The stocks show light wear, with scattered scratches and dings throughout. The stocks fit the frame tightly, with no play. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the stocks rate in Very Good condition.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright with sharp rifling. 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 original metal finish. The balance of the finish shows light wear, with only light handling marks and minor superficial imperfections in the metal surfaces present. The bluing is deep and dark throughout. The markings are clear and legible. The screw heads range from sharped to tooled, but all retain serviceable slots. Overall, this rifle rates in Very Good condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly, as does the half-cock safety. We did not fire this rifle, but we did perform a mechanic’s check. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.
Our Assessment: When Marlin introduced the Model 444 in 1964, it offered direct ballistic competition to the .45-70 Government cartridge — reinnovating the concept of the powerful, large-bore lever-action rifle for modern hunters. Built on an elongated Model 336 action, the 444 Marlin was purpose-designed to launch heavy .44-caliber bullets at high velocity, offering deep penetration and hard-hitting energy suitable for any North American big game. This example, dating between 1969 and 1971, hails from the golden era of Marlin craftsmanship, when the company’s New Haven factory produced rifles that combined durability, precision, and fine American walnut fitment.
The .444 Marlin cartridge, developed in partnership with Remington, was introduced alongside the rifle and quickly earned a reputation as a “brush buster” — ideal for dense timber hunting where quick handling and heavy impact were paramount. With 240- to 265-grain bullets traveling near 2,400 fps, it delivered performance that rivaled early .45-70 loads, making it a favorite among deer, bear, and elk hunters who valued lever-gun handling with magnum-level authority.
This rifle remains in beautiful condition, retaining roughly 98% of its original blue finish and featuring a bright, mirror-quality bore that rates a perfect 10 out of 10. The walnut stocks show light, honest handling wear but no structural flaws, and the rifle’s mechanics remain crisp and smooth. Representing both a key chapter in Marlin’s postwar innovation and one of the finest large-bore lever actions of its generation, this early Model 444 is a superb addition to any Marlin or American hunting rifle collection. Please check out our high quality photos, and good luck on your bids! – J.D.
