Marlin Model 1897 “Texan” .22 S,L,LR 20″ Lever Action Rifle MFD 2002
SOLD FOR: $1,030.00
LSB#: LSB260611KV002
Make: Marlin
Model: 1897 “Texan”
Serial Number: 98300032
Year of Manufacture: 2002
Caliber: .22 S,L,LR
Action Type: Lever action, rimfire rifle, fed from tubular magazine.
Barrel Length: 20″
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a large beaded blade dovetailed into the barrel. The rear sight is a spring leaf semi buckhorn U notch with elevator dovetailed into the barrel. The top of the receiver is drilled and tapped for a scope base.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock is two piece checkered walnut, capped forend, straight grip, straight comb, and checkered plastic buttplate. The LOP is 13 1/4″ from trigger to buttplate. There are scratches and compression dents scattered throughout. There are no chips or cracks. Overall this stock is in Very Good condition.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright. The rifling is sharp. There is no erosion. There is light fouling. In this writer’s opinion this bore rates 9/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 95% of its original metal finish. There is light handling and operational wear. There are light scratches and corrosion stains throughout. There is thinned bluing on the bottom of the receiver. The screw heads are sharp. The markings are clear. Overall this rifle is in Good to Very Good condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. 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 Texan was a short-lived modern revival of Marlin’s classic exposed-hammer .22 lever-action lineage, which traces through the original Model 1897 and ultimately evolved into the famous Model 39 series. Introduced in 2002, the Texan distinguished itself with a compact 20″ octagonal barrel, straight-grip walnut furniture, tubular magazine, and traditional open sights, giving it much of the appearance and handling character of Marlin’s turn-of-the-century rimfire rifles while incorporating modern manufacture. Chambered for .22 Short, Long, and Long Rifle, the Texan offered considerable versatility in a traditional takedown-style lever-action platform and has become one of the less commonly encountered modern Model 1897 variations.
This example retains about 95% of its original blue finish with light handling and operational wear, scattered scratches, minor corrosion staining, and some thinning on the underside of the receiver. The checkered walnut furniture remains in Very Good condition with scattered scratches and compression dents but no chips or cracks. The bright bore retains sharp rifling with no observed erosion and only light fouling and rates 9/10. The action functions correctly. With its 2002 production, compact 20″ octagonal barrel, straight-grip configuration, and strong bore, this is an attractive example of the relatively uncommon Marlin Model 1897 Texan. Please see our photos for a better understanding of the condition and good luck with your bids! MF