Marlin Model 1895 LTD 45-70 Govt 24″ Lever Action Rifle Circa 1990’s-2000’s
SOLD FOR: $1,175.00
LSB#: LSB260216CV042
Make: Marlin Firearms Co.
Model: 1895 LTD
Serial Number: DFC00740
Year of Manufacture: Circa 1990’s – 2000’s
Caliber: .45-70 Government
Action Type: Lever Action, fed by Tubular Magazine.
Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “1895LTD / *****CAL. 45/70 GOV’T.*****”, along with Marlin’s address. There is a “JM” stamp on the left side of the barrel, just forward of the receiver. The right side of the barrel is marked with a 2-line warning. The left side of the receiver is marked with the serial number.
Barrel Length: 24″; Half Octagonal, Half Round.
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 Marlin “Bullseye” is present in the belly of the buttstock. The LOP measures 13 1/4″ from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The stocks show light wear, with a few light scratches, dings, 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 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, but there is some light fouling present. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 9.75/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 99% of its original metal finish. The balance of the finish shows light wear, with only the most minor of superficial imperfections present, and a couple of minor hairline scratches and one small ding on the left side of the receiver, on the lever’s hinge. 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 to Fine condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly, as does the half-cock and cross-bolt 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 1895 LTD represents one of the more distinctive JM-era variants of the legendary 1895 platform, combining classic American lines with subtle refinement. The half octagonal, half round 24 inch barrel gives the rifle a striking profile while maintaining practical balance in the hands. Chambered in .45-70 Government, a cartridge introduced in 1873 for the U.S. military and still revered for its authority on big game, this rifle carries forward the heritage of one of America’s most enduring heavy calibers. The presence of the JM barrel stamp confirms North Haven production during Marlin’s respected pre-Remington period.
This example retains approximately 99 percent of its original blued finish, with only minor superficial handling marks and a small ding at the lever hinge on the left side of the receiver. The walnut stocks remain attractive, showing light scattered handling wear while maintaining tight fit and strong overall appearance, complete with the Marlin bullseye intact. The bore is bright with sharp rifling, showing only light fouling and rating 9.75 out of 10. The action cycles correctly and both the half-cock and cross-bolt safeties function as intended. Overall, this is a clean and desirable JM-stamped 1895 LTD that offers classic styling and serious .45-70 performance in a well-preserved package. Please see our photos for a better understanding of condition and good luck with your bids! – J.D.