Stunning – Model 1894 Marlin Special Order Rifle……..(F 1019)
Created on February 17th 2022
Fabulous condition, Stunning Collectors Piece Marlin Model 1894 Special Order Rifle
“This doesn’t happen very often….” would be an understatement. It doesn’t happen at all! This is the first time the author has seen one in such genuine original and untouched condition. This rifle has to be a special order; it has a select walnut stock and a 28″ octagonal barrel. It is also fitted with a adjustable Marble aperture tang sight. Condition all over is wonderful with a reassuring indications of aging consummate with the rifles actual age. Finish appears original all over, to the point of minor pitting occurring on small areas of the octagonal barrel. Otherwise no problems. The walnut stocks show enough use to see that this rifle is not new but well cherished.
Chambered in Marlins .25-20, being marked “25 -20 M” on the top flat of the barrel. German Silver fore-sight blade, blanked rear sight dovetail. Full length magazine tube under barrel. Smooth matt case-coloured components are the action and butt-plate. The under-lever, hammer, tangs and fore-end cap. All of this case-colour hardening appears to original. The bolt barrel and tube are blued. The full length tube was actually lengthened in the factory with a braized section joining the tubes. Nitra-blued side loading cover.
The serial number “325146” is marked under the front of the action and indicates production in 1905. This special order rifle was equipped with a superb mildly figured walnut stock which has survived in wonderful condition. The edges or high points of the barrel have also survived surprisingly well with little notable high edge wear. The barrel markings on the top flat read as follows; “MARLIN FIRE-ARMS CO.CT.U.S.A. / PATENTED OCT.11.1887. APRIL 2. 1889. AUGUST.1.1893″ All markings are sharp and full engraved depth indicating a lack of refinish. Nitra blued screws to action and butt-plate.
The action is mechanically fine and the bore is really very very good. Sharp clear and clean with uninterrupted rifling and no pitting. Perhaps the obscurity of the calibre has saved the bore. This rifle had to be owned by a Gentleman of some status, a man of means. No ordinary run of the mill cowboy could have afforded this, especially with its special order features. Consequently these days this is a top notch collectors piece. One wonders how many more there can be on this side of the pond, but its a cert they don’t look anything like this one. This is a pride of place exhibit which needs to be added to a top quality collection. A rare chance not to be missed and definitely an investment piece. Carries modern Nitro proofs under the woodwork.
Stock No’ F 1019
£ 4650.
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