Marlin Model 1894 .357 Mag/ 38 Spl 18 1/2″ Lever Action Rifle, MFD 1979
SOLD FOR: $1,100.00
LSB#: LSB251101BH004
Make: Marlin Firearms Co.
Model: 1894
Serial Number: 21030672
Year of Manufacture: 1979
Caliber: .357 Mag/38 Spl
Action Type: Lever Action, fed by Tubular Magazine
Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked with “The Marlin Firearms Co, North Haven Conn, USA, Mod 1894 Carbine, Micro Groove, Cal 357 Magnum” There is a “JM” stamp by the receiver. The upper tang is marked with the serial number.
Barrel Length: 18 1/2″
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a beaded blade dovetailed into the barrel. The rear sight is folding adjustable leaf with elevator. The left side of the receiver is drilled and tapped for a peep sight. The top of 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, straight comb, checkered Marlin buttplate, and banded forend.The LOP measures 13 1/2″ from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttpad. There is light handling wear. There are light scratches and compression dents. There is light weathering of the stock finish. 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, but there is some stubborn fouling present. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 9/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 80% of its original metal finish. There are scratches, handling marks, and corrosion stains scattered throughout. There are spots of bluing loss from scrubbing the corrosion. The markings are clear and legible. The screw heads are sharp and the pins are unmarred. Overall, this rifle rates in Good condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly, the half cock safety works. We did not fire this rifle, but we did perform a mechanic’s test. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None
Our Assessment: The Marlin Model 1894 represents one of the most successful modern lever-action carbines, blending classic handling with contemporary manufacturing and metallurgy. Manufactured in 1979 at Marlin’s North Haven, Connecticut facility, this example bears the desirable “JM” proof, identifying it as a pre-Remington production rifle. With its compact 18 1/2 inch barrel, Micro-Groove rifling, and traditional carbine configuration, the rifle reflects Marlin’s emphasis on smooth operation, accuracy, and durability during the late 20th century resurgence of pistol-caliber lever guns.
Chambered in .357 Magnum with the ability to also fire .38 Special, the Model 1894 offers exceptional versatility in a lightweight, fast-handling platform. The cartridge pairing made these rifles especially popular for recreational shooting, small game, and short-range hunting, as well as for shooters who appreciated ammunition commonality with revolvers. The bore on this example is bright with sharp rifling and no erosion present, rating 9 out of 10, with only stubborn fouling noted, consistent with normal use rather than neglect.
Overall condition shows honest wear consistent with field use, with approximately 80 percent of the original blued finish remaining and scattered scratches, handling marks, and light corrosion staining visible across the metal surfaces. The walnut stocks present well, showing only light handling wear and minor compression marks, with no chips or cracks, and rate in very good condition. Markings remain clear, screw heads are sharp, and the action functions correctly with a working half-cock safety. As a JM-marked Marlin Model 1894 in .357 Magnum from Marlin’s North Haven era, this rifle represents a solid example of a well-regarded modern lever action with enduring appeal. We are no longer offering layaway. Please see our photos for a better understanding of condition and good luck with your bids! MF
