Marlin Model 39 S-Prefix .22 S/L/LR 24″ Takedown JM Lever Action Rifle C&R
SOLD FOR: $
LSB#: 240423SB004
Make: Marlin
Model: 39
Serial Number: S12850
Year of Manufacture: 1922-1932
Caliber: .22 Short, Long and Long Rifle
Action Type: Lever Action Takedown Rifle with Tubular Magazine
Markings: The top of the barrel is marked “The Marlin Firearms Corporation. / NEW HAVEN, CONN. U.S.A.-PATENTED”, the left is marked “22 S L & L.R.” The lower tang is marked with the serial number and the inside of the frame is marked “850”. The right side of the barrel at the rear is marked with a poorly struck JM proof. The upper tang is marked “Marlin / MOD. 39” with a star inspector stamp. The butt plate is marked “Marlin”.
Barrel Length: 24”, Octagonal
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a beaded blade that is dovetailed to the barrel; the brass bead is missing. The rear sight is a V-notched elevator sight that is dovetailed to the barrel. The tang has two drilled, tapped, and filled holes for mounting a tang sight (not included).
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are two-piece smooth select walnut set with an “S” shaped pistol grip, capped forearm, Marlin bullseye in the belly, and a hard rubber Marlin buttplate. The wood has some scattered compressions and faint draglines throughout. The LOP measures 13 1/4” from the front of the trigger to the back of the hard rubber buttplate. The buttplate shows some scattered little nicks and dings along the edges; the lettering and checkering are generally sharp. The stocks rate in about Fine overall condition.
Type of Finish: Blue with Case Colored Receiver
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 out of 10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 90% of its metal finish. The lever has lost most of its case coloring and shows some scattered faint erosion. The case coloring of the receiver is still vivid in most areas, with some surfaces experiencing a shift to a light, mottled gray and orange patina. The lever and hammer have handling rub and operational wear, with mild surface oxidation. There is thinning at all leading edges. The barrel and mag tube show some scattered light scratches throughout. The screw heads have light tooling and are highly serviceable. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle rates in about Fine condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The hammer has a half-cock safety position. The trigger breaks crisply and the lever is tight in the action. The rifle takes down in seconds for easy storage and maintenance. We did not fire this rifle. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None
Our Assessment: This is an early “S” prefix Marlin Model 39 1st Model that was made between 1922-1932, just before the outbreak of the Second World War. Still showing about 90% of its blue and case colored finish, the rifle really comes together with its select walnut stocks and nice overall construction. This rifle would be great for teaching a new shooter the basics of safety and marksmanship, and is light enough that you could carry it while hunting rabbits in the field all day without it wearing you out. That said, this is a real find for the Marlin enthusiast in its high overall condition. Though it would be the dream plinking gun, the collectors are more than likely to take an interest. Please see our photos and good luck!
-Greenfield
