Turnbull Restored Marlin Model 39 .22S/L/LR 24” Lever Action Rifle, C&R
SOLD FOR: $3,475.00
LSB#: LSB251006RB004
Make: Marlin Firearms Co.
Model: Model 39
Serial Number: S8399
Year of Manufacture: 1925-1932 /C&R (S prefix)
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 Corporation / . New Haven, Conn. U.S.A.–PATENTED–” The left side of the barrel shoulder is marked “–.22 S.L.&L.R.”. The bottom tang is marked with the serial number “S8399”. The top tang is marked with “Marlin / MOD 39” on the upper tang.
Barrel Length: 24” Octagonal
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a beaded blade dovetailed to the barrel. The rear barrel sight is a semi-buckhorn attached to an elevator.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are a two-piece smooth wood stock set, with a semi pistol grip, straight comb, checkered Marlin plastic buttplate, and a capped forend. The LOP measures 13 1/4″ from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The stocks show minimal wear to the refinishing. The Marlin “Bulleye” is present in the belly of the buttstock. 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 & Color Case Hardened
Finish Originality: Professionally Restored by Doug Turnbull Restoration / Refinished
Bore Condition: The bore is bright with sharp rifling. There is no erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 9.5/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 98% of its original metal finish. The case coloring from the Turnbull restoration 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 as restored.
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: Rifle comes with an authentication letter from Turnbull Restoration detailing all the work that went into bringing this rifle back to life.
Our Assessment: This Marlin Model 39 has been expertly restored by Turnbull Restoration, and it stands as a textbook example of Doug Turnbull’s philosophy of historically faithful, museum-grade restoration. Turnbull Restoration is widely regarded as the gold standard for classic American firearms, particularly Marlin and Winchester lever actions, due to its uncompromising adherence to original finishes, period-correct metallurgy, and traditional color case hardening methods. Rather than “refinishing” in the modern sense, Turnbull’s work is focused on returning a firearm to the appearance and character it would have exhibited when new, while preserving its historical integrity.
Originally produced between 1925 and 1932, the Marlin Model 39 is one of the most respected rimfire lever actions ever built and the direct ancestor of the legendary Model 39A. Its solid-top receiver, side ejection, and exceptional accuracy helped establish Marlin’s dominance in rimfire lever rifles during the early twentieth century. This example retains the desirable 24-inch octagonal barrel and classic Marlin lines, now elevated by Turnbull’s vivid color case hardened receiver and period-correct blued finish. The case colors are rich and well defined, the bluing is deep and even, and all rollmarks remain crisp and legible—hallmarks of a proper Turnbull restoration.
Condition is outstanding throughout. Approximately 98 percent of the restored metal finish remains, with no notable wear or handling marks. The bore is bright with sharp rifling and no erosion, rating a strong 9.5 out of 10. The refinished wood stocks show minimal wear, retain tight fit to the action, and feature the correct Marlin bullseye in the buttstock, presenting in Excellent condition. Mechanically, the action functions correctly, including the half-cock safety, and overall operation is smooth and precise. Accompanied by a Turnbull Restoration authentication letter detailing the work performed, this rifle represents a rare opportunity to acquire a classic Marlin rimfire that has been restored by one of the most respected names in the field. It offers the appearance and presence of a near-new vintage Marlin, backed by documented, world-class restoration quality. Please see our photos for a better understanding of condition and good luck on your bids!
BF
