Marlin Model 1897 .22S/L/LR 24” Lever Action Rimfire Rifle, C&R
SOLD FOR: $1,725.00
LSB#: LSB251006RB001
Make: Marlin Firearms Co.
Model: Model 1897
Serial Number: 271600
Year of Manufacture: 1897-1904 /C&R
Caliber: .22 S/L/LR
Action Type: Lever Action, fed by Tubular Magazine
Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “The Marlin Firearms Co. New Haven, Conn. U.S.A.” / followed by patent date lines. The bottom of the receiver is marked with the serial number “271600”. The top tang is marked with “Model 1897” under the tang sight. The top of the receiver is marked “MARLIN SAFETY”.
Barrel Length: 24” Octagonal
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a beaded blade sight dovetailed to the barrel. The rear barrel sight is a semi-buckhorn attached to an elevator. The tang sight is a flip up Lyman A1 tang sight with a large peep sight aperture.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are a two-piece smooth wood stock set, with a straight grip, straight comb, checkered plastic buttplate, and a capped forend. The LOP measures 13 3/8″ from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The stocks show minimal wear. The buttstock and forearm fits tightly to the frame with no play. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the stocks rate in Excellent condition.
Type of Finish: Blued & case Hardened
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is light erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 6.5/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 80% of its metal finish. The case coloring is vivid. The markings are clear and legible. The screw heads are sharp, and all retain strong and serviceable slots. Overall, this rifle rates in Excellent condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly, as does the half-cock safety. We did not fire this rifle. 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 1897 represents a foundational moment in the evolution of American rimfire lever-action rifles and stands as the direct ancestor to the long-lived and highly respected Model 39 series. Introduced at the close of the nineteenth century, the Model 1897 embodied Marlin’s design philosophy of strength, accuracy, and refinement at a time when lever actions dominated small-game hunting and recreational shooting. Unlike many contemporaries, Marlin Firearms Co. emphasized a solid-top receiver with side ejection, features that enhanced rigidity, protected the action, and contributed to excellent accuracy. These design choices helped Marlin establish a reputation that would rival Winchester in the rimfire market.
This example dates to the early production period between 1897 and 1904 and is chambered for .22 Short, Long, and Long Rifle, reflecting the versatility that made the Model 1897 so appealing to turn-of-the-century shooters. The 24-inch octagonal barrel is particularly desirable, offering classic aesthetics, smooth balance, and an extended sight radius. The rifle is equipped with a period-correct sighting setup including a semi-buckhorn rear sight and a Lyman A1 tang sight with a large peep aperture, a combination favored by serious shooters of the era for precise, deliberate fire.
Condition is excellent. Approximately 80% percent of the finish remains, with vivid case coloring still present and crisp, legible markings throughout. The blueing in the barrel has turned a subtle patina but still looks gorgeous. Mechanically, the action functions correctly, including the half-cock safety, and operation is smooth and positive. Taken as a whole, this Marlin Model 1897 offers a beautiful example of one of Marlin’s most important early rimfire lever actions, capturing the craftsmanship, design innovation, and shooting heritage that would influence American sporting rifles for generations to follow. Please see our photos for a better understanding of condition and good luck on your bids!
BF
