Marlin 39

J

Jmack1980

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I am thinking about buying a model 39 Marlin. I hear that the quality of the newer Marlins have gone down hill. Does anyone know if this is the case for the newer model 39's. I feel like I would be better off hunting for an older one!
 
39... I'd look for an older one personally. Request permission for access to the EE and put ou a WTB ad... I'd bet you could find one quick there. Marlins 39's are, from what I've read, one of the more difficult rifles to build properly because they require quite a bit of hand fitting, hence the price. Marlin was the master in that regard... Remington, not s'much.

I read over on marlinowners that for over 40 years, from the 50's to the mid-late 90's, there was one man responsible for final assembly of all the model 39's. When that man retired the model 39's glory years began to fade. I'd look for one made during that time period.
 
struff55 said:
He must have been a very busy man .
Click to expand...

No kidding, I don't know how much I believe about the story... But apparently it's true for the most part. I don't know how many people he had working under him, assisting him... But it would be on the average about 10 rifles per hour, 340 days a year, for 45 years.
 
I requested access to the EE forum just waiting for approval. I would even consider an 1892 or 1897 marlin 22. I am thinking those might be hard to come by though. Would be nice to look at though.
 
What do you think this 1953 Model 39A would be worth? (bottom rifle)

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Blutck
 
Thanks guys. That's kinda the neighbourhood I thought it would be. Not for sale though :). As you can tell, I'm kinda partial to "English" straight grip stocks as well in not only my levers, but my S X S's as well.

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That '53 is a rare rifle. I think it was the only year Marlin made the straight grip with a 24 inch barrel. If I recall, it would be a pre-microgroove barrel as well. I think initial estimates might be a bit low.
 
I did a bit of digging and that configuration was only available in '53. Marlin shortened the barrel to 20" starting in '54. Obviously the sling swives are not factory. That would hold back the collector value somewhat.

Nice gun!
 
Wow. Swivel studs - that would of been me...:eek:

I picked this guy up for a case of beer when the registration came in from a non licensed gun owner.

I beleive it to be a '53 but I have some conflicting info when doing a little re-search on it. Some sites say it is a '52 and some a '53. The S/N is K2218# - leaving out the last number on purpose.

Thanks for the good news guys. It is a real fun gun to shoot and the "break down" feature makes it an interesting little piece.
 
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