Marlin Firearms Co. Model 1893 .30-30 Winchester 20” Lever Rifle, 1904 C&R
SOLD FOR: $805
WOA#: WY240315JV025
Make: Marlin
Model: 1893
Serial Number: 288020
Year of Manufacture: 1901 C&R
Caliber: .30-30 Winchester
Action Type: Lever Action Rifle with Full-Length Tubular Magazine
Markings: The top of the barrel is marked “-Marlin Firearms Co. NEW-HAVEN, CT. U.S.A.- / -PAT’D OCT. 11. 1887. APRIL 2. 1889. AUG. 1. 1893- / SPECIAL SMOKELESS STEEL” and “30-30.” at the receiver. The top of the receiver is marked “MARLIN SAFETY”. The upper tang under the tang sight is marked “MODEL / 1893”. The bottom of the receiver is marked with the serial number “288020”
Barrel Length: 20”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a beaded blade pinned to a slotted base behind the barrel band. The rear sight is a folding ladder sight with v-notch when down and a sliding v-notch leaf when up. The top of the receiver is drilled, tapped, and filled for sight mounting options. The upper tang is drilled, tapped, and filled, for a tang sight (not included).
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are two-piece smooth walnut with a straight grip, straight comb, carbine style steel buttplate and a banded forend. The stocks are relatively free of any notable wear outside of a few small handling marks on the buttstock. The LOP measures 13 1/8” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. There is pitting under the finish on the stock band and buttplate. The stocks rate in about Fine overall condition as refinished.
Type of Finish: Blue
Finish Originality: Refinished
Bore Condition: The bore is gray with minor erosion throughout and well defined rifling. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 6.5/10 for C&R.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 99% of its metal finish. This rifle has been completely reblued. There are spots of visible pitting on parts of the lever, trigger, band, buttplate. There are scuffs on the left and right side of the barrel near the chamber. The screw heads range from lightly tool marked to disfigured with usable slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this gun rates in about Very Good condition as refinished.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The hammer has a half-cock safety and the lever locks up solidly. We have not fired this rifle. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.
Our Assessment: The Marlin Model 1893 in .30-30 is a revered icon in the world of lever-action rifles, showcasing the excellence of American firearms design at the turn of the 20th century. Introduced in 1893, this rifle was among the first to be chambered for the then-new .30-30 Winchester cartridge, a combination that quickly became a staple in the hunting community for its versatility and effectiveness.
This model features Marlin’s robust lever-action mechanism, renowned for its smooth operation and reliability. The solid-top receiver and side ejection design, signature elements of Marlin’s engineering, offer enhanced strength and make it easier to mount a scope, a significant advantage for marksmen. The .30-30 cartridge, celebrated for its balance of power and manageable recoil, made the Model 1893 an excellent choice for deer hunting and other medium game.
Owning a Marlin Model 1893 in .30-30 is akin to holding a piece of firearms history, reflecting the pioneering spirit of American gunmakers. Its combination of rugged durability, historical significance, and practical performance make it a cherished item for collectors and a reliable tool for hunters and shooting enthusiasts alike. Please see our photos and good luck on your bid! – L.S.