Marlin Model 39 A MP

[bearhunter]

I picked up a Marlin Mod 39M about a month ago.

One thing about it. I has varnish or some other finish on the stock.

What I need to know is what type of finish was originally applied to the stocks on these handy little rifles.

The pics I've found online show oil finishes, matte finish of some sort and shiny varnish type finishes.

The rifle is in the L4### serial number range indicates 1954 production

It has a straight stock and 20in bbl.

 

[stickhunter]

Congrats on your Marlin. They're a lovely rifle. For a 1954 vintage, the finish would have been a matte rubbed oil, not a varnish. If the varnish is dry/flakey, you may be able to remove it carefully (scraping, not sanding) to reveal the underlying oil finish. If not, a careful strip and refinish with a suitable oil would be in order - I've used Behr #600 Scandanavian Tung Oil Finish from Home Depot to repair the worn finish on a 1940's Marlin 36RC and it matched the original quite well.

 

[bearhunter]

That was my hunch but I wasn't sure. I will strip off the varnish with a good stripper and only wipe it down with a cloth, then some sort of oil finish that will be applicable like Lin Speed mixed with alcohol or BLO. I might even take your advice on the Behr #600. Lots of time to make up my mind and thanks for the reply.

 

[fugawi]

Post some before and after pics please. I've regretted not buying a Model 39 when one came up f/s a local shop years ago.

Its still on my list.