Marlin Firearms Co. Model 1894 ‘94 .25-20 Win Lever Action Rifle 1903 C&R
SOLD FOR: $1,225.00
LSB#: WY250501RO008
Make: Marlin
Model: 1894
Serial Number: 262884
Year of Manufacture: 1903, C&R
Caliber: .25-20 Winchester
Action Type: Lever Action with Full Length 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. AUG. 1. 1893.” in front of the rear sight and “25-20” at the receiver. The underside of the receiver is marked “262884”. The upper tang is marked “Marlin / MODEL ‘94”. The top of the receiver is marked “MARLIN SAFETY”.
Barrel Length: 24” Octagonal
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a German silver blade dovetailed to the barrel. The rear sight is a u-notch elevator sight dovetailed to the barrel. The top of the tang is drilled, tapped, and filled for a tang sight (none present).
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are two piece smooth walnut. The buttstock has a straight grip, straight comb, and a steel crescent buttplate while the forend has a steel nose cap. There are scattered scratches, nicks, and compressions. The LOP measures 13 1/8” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The stocks rate in about Excellent overall condition as refinished.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Refinished
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 9/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 90% of its refinish. There are a couple spots of erosion and minor pitting visible under the new finish. The finish is strong and complete throughout except for the sides of the receiver where there is some oxidation and patina introduced. The screw heads are sharp to tool marked with serviceable slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle rates in about Fine condition as refinished.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The hammer has a half-cock safety. The trigger is light and crisp. 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 Marlin Model 1894, manufactured in 1903, is a fine example of the classic American lever-action rifle chambered in the now-collectible .25-20 Winchester cartridge. Known for its flat-shooting performance and light recoil, the .25-20 was a favored round for small game and varmint hunting at the turn of the 20th century. Marlin’s Model 1894, with its solid-top receiver and side ejection, was a distinct departure from Winchester’s design and is often praised for its strength and ease of mounting optics. This example features a 24” octagonal barrel, adding both period-correct aesthetic and added sight radius for precision shooting.
Refinished and restored with care, this rifle retains 90% of its updated finish while preserving legible markings and a bright, sharp bore that remains clean and erosion-free—an uncommon trait for rifles of this age. The stocks have been refinished as well and are free of major defects, offering a solid and attractive appearance. With C&R eligibility and a mechanical action that remains crisp and functional, this Model 1894 will appeal to collectors of early 20th-century Marlins, lever-action enthusiasts, and those seeking a working example of a classic small-bore rifle from the golden age of American gunmaking. Please see our photos and good luck on your bid! – L.S.
