Make: Marlin
Model: 1895 LTD IV, Davidson's Exclusive
Serial Number: IV000033, 33 of 1,001
Year of Manufacture: 2000
Caliber: .45-70 Government
Action Type: Lever action, centerfire rifle, fed from tubular magazine.
Barrel Length: 24" Octagon
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a brass beaded blade dovetailed into the barrel. The rear sight is a "U"-notch elevator sight dovetailed to the rear of the barrel with a white diamond aiming reference. The notch is fine-adjustable for elevation and can be reversed to present a "V"-notch. The left side of the receiver is drilled tapped and filled for a peep sight. The top of the receiver is drilled, tapped and filled for scope mounts.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are two piece smooth walnut with capped forend, straight grip, straight comb, checkered plastic Marlin buttplate and Marlin "bullseye" in the belly. The LOP is 13 1/2" from trigger to buttplate. There are some light scratches and compression dents, most notable at the heel, toe and rear of the forend. There are no chips or cracks. Overall the stocks are in Very Good-plus condition.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is mostly bright. The rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore, but there is a little stubborn fouling. In this writer's opinion this bore rates 9.5/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 97% of its original finish. There are a few minor scratches and superficial freckles. There is light handling and operational wear. The screw heads are sharp. Some of the markings have been white filled. All markings are clear. Overall this rifle is in about Fine condition.
Mechanics: This action functions correctly. We did not fire this rifle. As with all used firearms a full cleaning may be required to meet your standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None
Our Assessment: The Marlin Model 1895 LTD IV is part of Marlin’s Limited series, produced in smaller numbers to highlight traditional styling and enhanced presentation within the classic big-bore lever-action platform. Only 1,001 LTD IV models were made for Davidson's in 2000. Built during the JM-marked era, this variant reflects a period of strong production quality and attention to detail. Chambered in .45-70 Government, a cartridge introduced in 1873 for U.S. military service, the rifle carries forward a long-standing reputation for heavy bullet performance and deep penetration, making it a natural pairing with the robust Model 1895 action.
This LTD IV configuration is distinguished by its 24" octagon barrel with full-length magazine tube, offering both visual appeal and a steady, deliberate shooting profile. The rifle retains its traditional open sights while also providing flexibility through provisions for both receiver sights and top-mounted optics. The walnut stocks remain in Very Good-plus condition, the metal finish is well preserved at approximately 97%, the bore is strong and the mechanics are still spot-on.
Altogether, this rifle presents as a well-kept example of a desirable limited-production Marlin, combining classic lines with the authority of a historic big-bore cartridge. The octagon barrel and overall configuration emphasize both traditional aesthetics and practical function, while the strong finish and bore condition support its continued usability. It stands as a refined example of the JM-era Model 1895, reflecting Marlin’s effort to blend heritage styling with modern production standards. Please see our photos and good luck with your bids!
