Marlin Firearms Co. Model 1894 .32 Winchester Takedown Lever Rifle, Antique
SOLD FOR: $2424
LSB#: 220109RB077
Make: Marlin Firearms Co.
Model: 1894
Serial Number: 118002
Year of Manufacture: 1895
Caliber: .32 WCF
Action Type: Takedown Lever Action Rifle with Tubular Magazine
Markings: The top of the barrel is marked “MARLIN FIRE-ARMS CO. NEW HAVEN, CT. U.S.A. / PATENTED OCT. 11. 1887. APRIL 2. 1889. AUGUST 1. 1893.” and “.32 W.” The top of the frame is marked “MARLIN SAFETY”. The upper tang is marked “MODEL / 1894”. The serial number is found on the underside of the frame.
Barrel Length: 24”
Sights / Optics: The gun is mounted with a dovetail set front blade sight and a dovetail set leaf and elevator rear sight, with elevator present.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are two-piece smooth walnut with a capped forend, straight grip, and a steel crescent buttplate. There are several nicks, scratches, gashes, and compressions. The wood to metal fit is exceptional. The right side of the forearm has a dark impact and there is some light pitting on the left side of the buttstock. There is a small amount of material loss on the bottom of the wrist, just left of the lower tang. The LOP measures 13 1/8” from the front of the trigger to the rear of the curved steel buttplate, which shows a mottled patina with scattered erosion. The stocks rate in about Very Good overall condition as Antique.
Type of Finish: Blue & Case Color
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is somewhat bright and the rifling is sharp. There is scattered light erosion with some minor pitting.
Overall Condition: This gun retains about 65% of its metal finish. The balance of the finish shows much thinning, partial muting of the case colors and a light drift to patina. There is some infrequently scattered pitting and pinprick erosion, primarily on the barrel. There are some nicks and scratches dispersed about the surfaces. The case colors still have a relatively strong presence, the bolt retains the majority of its finish, and the whole gun has an honest and well cared for appearance. The screw heads are serviceable though a bit worn. The markings are clear. Overall, this gun rates in about Very Good-Fine condition as Antique.
Mechanics: The action functions as correctly. We have not fired this rifle. As with all previously owned firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.
Our Assessment: The Marlin lever actions are often forgotten, especially next to the Winchesters, but they shouldn’t be. Marlin was there, building great quality and reliable rifles alongside Winchester and in the glory days of American Manufacturing. Both on the frontier, and even today, many prefer the Marlin to a Winchester. This gun is an important piece in firearms history, in American history and will be an important piece in your collection. This particular gun is a takedown Model 1894, a must have in any Marlin lever action collection. This rifle is an early example from 1895 and has obviously been well cared for over its 127 years of existence. You’d best drop a bid on this beauty!