Marlin Firearms Co. Model 1893 .38-55 Winchester Lever Rifle 1898 Antique
SOLD FOR: $1,126.00
LSB#: WY250315WO002
Make: Marlin
Model: 1893
Serial Number: 167073
Year of Manufacture: 1898
Caliber: .38-55 Winchester Center Fire
Action Type: Lever Action Rifle with Tubular Magazine
Barrel Length: 23.5” Octagonal, Chopped
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a beaded blade dovetailed to the barrel. The rear sight is a Marble’s Buckhorn elevator sight dovetailed to the barrel. The top tang is drilled, tapped, and filled for a tang sight (none present).
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are two-piece smooth walnut with a capped forearm, straight grip, straight comb, and steel crescent buttplate. The stocks display modest handling wear. The bottom of the forend of the crack that runs the length from front to rear. The left side of the wrist has a small crack that starts at the receiver. There are scattered scratches, nicks, and scuffs with intermittent finish loss. The LOP measures 13 1/4” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The stock fits shy to the metal. There are no chips or cracks. The stocks rate in about Excellent condition.
Type of Finish: Blue & Case Colored
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is gray and the rifling is rounded on the edges. There is faint erosion but no notable pitting. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 6.5/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 40% of its metal finish. Most of the finish on the mag-tube and receiver has thinned and taken to a mottled light-dark patina. The barrel retains much of its bluing with finish loss at the muzzle and on the edges of the barrel’s octagon. There is faint erosion and intermittent oxidation throughout with scattered handling wear. The screw heads are tool marked with strong slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle rates in about Good condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The hammer has a half-cock safety position. 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 is one of the earliest lever-action rifles produced by Marlin Firearms, showcasing the company’s commitment to innovation and quality in the late 19th century. Designed by L.L. Hepburn, the Model 1893 was introduced to handle larger, more powerful cartridges, which was a significant development in the realm of lever-action rifles. This model was available in several calibers, including the popular .38-55, which was known for its effectiveness in big-game hunting. Crafted with a solid top receiver and a smooth action, the Model 1893 was praised for its durability and reliability. Its design featured a side ejection, which was an advantage for shooters using scopes, a less common practice at the time but gaining in popularity. Collectors and shooting enthusiasts today value the Marlin Model 1893 for its historical significance as one of the foundational models that shaped the future of lever-action rifles. Its robust construction and adaptability to various cartridges make it a noteworthy piece both for practical use in hunting and as a collectible in any historical firearm collection. Please see our photos and good luck on your bid! – L.S.
