Marlin Model 1894 Cowboy Limited .357 Mag 24″ Lever Action Rifle, MFD 2003
SOLD FOR: $1,475.00
LSB#: LSB260301RW096
Make: Marlin Firearms Co.
Model: 1894 Cowboy Limited
Serial Number: 97204177
Year of Manufacture: 2003
Caliber: .357 Magnum / .38 Special
Action Type: Lever Action, fed by Tubular Magazine
Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “1894 COWBOY LIMITED THE MARLIN FIREARMS CO. NORTH HAVEN, CT. U.S.A. / **MODEL 1894CB-CAL. 357 MAG. OR 38 SPL.**”, along with a “JM” stamp just forward of the receiver. The left side of the receiver is marked with the serial number.
Barrel Length: 24″ Octagonal.
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a 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 drilled and tapped for optics.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are a two-piece smooth walnut stock set, with a straight grip, straight comb, checkered plastic Marlin buttplate, and a smooth capped forend. The LOP measures 13 3/8″ from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The stocks show light handling wear, with only a couple of minor scratches and compressions scattered throughout. The stock’s finish is intact, and the stocks fit tightly to the frame, with no play. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the stocks rate in Fine to Excellent condition.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright with sharp rifling. There is no erosion in the bore, but there is some minor fouling present. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 10/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 98% of its original metal finish. The balance of the finish shows light handling wear, with a couple small dings on the top of the receiver. Otherwise, only minor superficial imperfections are present on the metal surfaces. The bluing is deep, dark, and intact. The markings are clear and legible. The screw heads are sharp. Overall, this rifle rates in Fine to Excellent condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly, as does the cross-bolt and half-cock safeties. 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: The Marlin Model 1894 Cowboy Limited is a modern homage to the long-barreled lever rifles of the late 19th century, blending classic styling with contemporary manufacturing. Produced in 2003 during the desirable North Haven “JM” era, this 24 inch octagonal-barreled example captures the look and feel of the frontier sporting rifle while chambered in the versatile .357 Magnum. With the added capability of firing .38 Special, the platform offers a broad range of performance from light target loads to full-power magnum hunting ammunition, all in a fast-handling lever action that balances beautifully with the extended octagon barrel.
This rifle retains approximately 98 percent of its original blued finish, with only minor handling marks and a couple small dings on the top of the receiver. The bore is bright with sharp rifling and rates 10 out of 10 in this writer’s opinion. The smooth walnut stocks remain in Fine to Excellent condition, showing only light impressions with a tight fit to the action. The action cycles correctly and reflects the smooth feel expected of a well-kept Marlin 1894. A handsome Cowboy Limited that delivers classic lines, strong condition, and the practical utility that has kept pistol-caliber lever guns relevant for generations. Please see our photos for a better understanding of condition and good luck with your bids! – J.D.