Marlin Model 1894 Carbine .357 Magnum 18 1/2″ Lever Action Rifle, MFD 1983
SOLD FOR: $1,000.00
LSB#: LSB251013SR006
Make: Marlin Firearms Co.
Model: 1894 Carbine
Serial Number: 17036150
Year of Manufacture: 1983
Caliber: .357 Magnum
Action Type: Lever Action, fed by Tubular Magazine
Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked with Marlin’s New Haven address, along with “MOD. 1894 – CARBINE – MICRO-GROOVE – CAL. .357 MAGNUM”, and a circled “JM” stamp. The right side of the barrel is marked with Marlin’s 2-line warning. The top tang is marked with the serial number.
Barrel Length: 18 1/2″
Sights / Optics: The front sight is brass beaded blade, dovetailed to the barrel. The rear sight is a semi-buckhorn U-notch sight on a riser, dovetailed to the barrel. The top of the receiver is mounted with a one-piece Weaver style base for optics.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are a two-piece smooth walnut stock set, with a straight grip, straight comb, checkered plastic buttplate, and a smooth banded forend. The LOP measures 13 3/8″ from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The stocks show light wear, with scattered scratches, dings, and small scuffs throughout. The stock’s finish is largely intact. The stocks fit tightly to the frame, with no play. There is a hole in the belly where the Marlin “Bullseye” should be, but it is missing. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the stocks rate in Good to Very Good condition.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright with sharp rifling. There is no erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 10/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 95% of its original metal finish. The balance of the finish shows light wear, with a few small patches of surface corrosion on the magazine tube, and a few dings on the front barrel band. Otherwise, the bluing is deep and dark throughout. The markings are clear and legible. The screw heads are sharp. Overall, this rifle rates in Very Good condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly, as does the half-cock safety. We did not fire this rifle, but we did perform a mechanic’s check. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.
Our Assessment: Marlin’s Model 1894 Carbine in .357 Magnum combines the timeless appeal of a classic lever-action rifle with the practicality of a potent revolver cartridge. Produced in 1983, this pre–Remington acquisition example carries the desirable “JM” stamp and Marlin’s Micro-Groove rifling, both hallmarks of the company’s high-quality New Haven production era. Compact, fast-handling, and exceptionally fun to shoot, the 1894 in .357 has long been favored for ranch use, deer hunting in thick cover, cowboy-action shooting, and as a versatile companion to .357 Magnum/.38 Special revolvers.
This example remains in very good overall condition. The deep original bluing shows only light wear, including a couple small patches of corrosion on the magazine tube and minor marks on the front barrel band. The walnut stocks retain strong color and tight fit, with only scattered handling marks and the absence of the traditional Marlin “bullseye” insert. Mechanically, the action cycles smoothly, and the bore is outstanding; bright, sharp, and free of erosion. The receiver-mounted Weaver-style base allows immediate installation of an optic for those who prefer glass over irons.
With its desirable vintage, excellent bore, solid wood, and correct “JM” production pedigree, this 1983 Marlin 1894 Carbine is both a highly capable field rifle and a collectible piece of Marlin’s golden-era craftsmanship. Please see our photos and good luck on your bid! – J.D.
