Possible Marlin 1893 acquisition

[cote_b]

Hi,

I may be inheriting a Marlin 1893 lever action at some point and I am unsure as to what caliber it is in. The markings on the gun say " 32 HPS". While doing some research I found that the only two 32 caliber cartriges it was chambered for was the 32 winchester special or .32-40. I have a feeeling that it is the .32 special, but just wondering if that guess is correct. Also, if I do end up getting it, can I use modern copper jacketed factory ammo in the gun without ruining the bore?

Thanks

 

[pharaoh2]

My guess would be the .32-20 but you'll be safest to take it to a smith and get the chamber cast.

 

[Killer Kanuck]

32 HPS is "32 High Power Special" - aka 32 Winchester Special. Marlin didn't want to put the word "Winchester" on their rifles, so they made their own name. Same cartridge though.
I think I'd avoid jacketed ammo in it, as the older ones tend to have softer barrels, and you could shoot them out. The odd jacketed round probably wouldn't hurt, but you'd be better off sticking to lead.

 

[cote_b]

Thanks for your quick replies! I figured that I would probably have to load my own brass with lead bullets if I wanted to shoot it regularly. Im really I hope I end up getting this rifle and soon!

 

[Killer Kanuck]

They're a solid, well made old gun. If you do get it you'll like it. I've had about 1/2 a dozen of them over the past few years. Whittled it down to a 1/2 oct 1/2 round 38-55 with 1/2 magazine and an octagonal barreled 32-40.