Marlin Firearms Co. Model 1894CL Classic JM .218 BEE Lever Action Rifle
SOLD FOR: $1,500.00
LSB#: LSB250518JG026
Make: Marlin
Model: 1894CL Classic
Serial Number: 10077734
Year of Manufacture: 1988-1993
Caliber: .218 BEE
Action Type: Lever Action Rifle with Tubular Magazine
Markings: The left shoulder of the barrel is marked “THE MARLIN FIREARMS CO., NORTH HAVEN, CT., U.S.A. / MODEL 1894CL “CLASSIC” – CALIBER 218 BEE” and at the rear with a “JM” proof. The right shoulder of the barrel is marked with Marlin’s two-line warning. The upper tang is marked with the serial number.
Barrel Length: 21.5”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a brass beaded blade dovetailed at the front of the barrel. The rear sight is a buckhorn elevator sight with a U-notch that is dovetailed to the barrel. The top of the receiver has a two piece scope mount attached.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are two-piece smooth walnut with a straight grip, straight comb, brown hard rubber Marlin buttpad, nose cap, and Marlin “bullseye” in the belly. There are some scattered scratches, small scrapes, and pressure dents throughout with some more notable scratches on the belly. There are no chips or cracks. The LOP measures 13.5? from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttpad. The buttpad shows some faint marks. Overall, the stocks rate in about Fine to Fine-Plus condition.
Type of Finish: Blue
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling sharp. There is no erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 9/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 96% of its metal finish. The action shows operational wear. The screw heads are sharp. The left side of the receiver has a small thin scratch. The markings are clear and legible. Overall, this rifle is in about Fine Plus to Good condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly and smoothly. The receiver also contains a crossbolt safety that blocks the hammer from hitting the pin. 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: This rifle comes with the original box, and owner’s manual.
Our Assessment: The Marlin 1894CL Classic chambered in .218 Bee is a rare and highly sought-after lever-action rifle, especially among varmint hunters and collectors of Marlin’s JM-stamped North Haven production. Manufactured between 1988 and 1993, this example features a 21.5” barrel and retains approximately 96% of its original blue finish, with only minor handling marks and typical signs of cycling on the lever and bolt. The bore is bright with sharp rifling and rates a solid 9/10, ready for precision shooting with its crisp trigger and smooth cycling action.
The smooth walnut stock, adorned with the signature Marlin “bullseye,” shows light handling wear with a few scratches and pressure dents—most notably on the belly—but no cracks or structural issues. The original brown Marlin buttpad remains intact, and a two-piece scope base is installed atop the receiver for easy optics mounting. The rifle also retains its original buckhorn rear sight and brass-beaded front sight, offering flexible sighting options.
With its unusual chambering, clean bore, JM stamp, and included box and manual, this rifle is as attractive to collectors as it is to those seeking a unique and flat-shooting lever gun for small game or varmints. .218 Bee lever actions are seldom encountered, making this 1894CL a standout addition to any serious collection. Please check out our photos, and thank you for bidding! Good luck! – J.D.
