Make: Marlin Firearms Co.

Model: 1893 Takedown

Serial Number: 281531

Year of Manufacture: 1903

Caliber: .30-30 Winchester

Action Type: Lever Action Takedown Rifle with Tubular Magazine

Barrel Length: 26" Octagonal

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a german silver blade in a slotted base dovetailed to the barrel. The rear sight is a v-notch elevator sight dovetailed to the barrel, the notch is fine-adjustable for elevation. The top tang is drilled, tapped and filled for a tang sight, none present.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are two-piece smooth walnut with a capped forend, straight grip, straight comb, and steel crescent buttplate. The stocks have even light handling wear with scattered nicks and small scratches. There are a few tiny cracks and losses at edges. The LOP measures 13 1/8” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The plate has gone to a mottled patina, showing some case color figuring. The stocks rate in about Very Good condition.

Type of Finish: Blue and Case Color

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is mostly bright with sharp rifling. There is infrequent minor erosion in the bore. In this writer's opinion, the bore rates about 9/10.

Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 85% of its metal finish. The finish is thinning at all edges. There is some minor erosion at the front of the magazine tube. There is finish wear on the forend cap. There is some scattered minor surface oxidation. The frame retains generally strong case color. There are tool marks on and around the takedown lever. There are some scattered minor nicks and small scratches. The action shows light operational wear. The screw heads range from sharp to lightly tool marked with strong slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle rates in Very Good-plus condition.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We have not fired this rifle. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: Included is a Cody Firearms Records Office Show Search form which indicates the rifle was made September 2, 1903, produced as a takedown rifle chambered for .30-30 with 26" octagonal barrel.

Our Assessment: The Marlin Model 1893 is one of the earliest lever-action rifles produced by Marlin Firearms, showcasing the company's commitment to innovation and quality in the late 19th century. Designed by L.L. Hepburn, the Model 1893 was introduced to handle larger, more powerful cartridges, which was a significant development in the realm of lever-action rifles. This model was available in several calibers, including the popular .30-30, which became perhaps the most popular deer cartridge in America. Crafted with a solid top receiver and a smooth action, the Model 1893 was praised for its durability and reliability. Its design featured a side ejection, which was an advantage for shooters using scopes, a less common practice at the time but gaining in popularity. Collectors and shooting enthusiasts today value the Marlin Model 1893 for its historical significance as one of the foundational models that shaped the future of lever-action rifles. Its robust construction and adaptability to various cartridges make it a noteworthy piece both for practical use in hunting and as a collectible.

This takedown example is in quite nice condition, especially considering its age. Chambered for .30-30 with much of its original finish, a great bore and strong mechanics, it will make a fine addition to any collection. Please see our photos and good luck on your bid!