Make: Marlin

Model: 1893

Serial Number: 93709

Year of Manufacture: 1893, Antique

Caliber: .32-40 Winchester

Action Type: Lever Action Rifle with Full-Length Tubular Magazine

Barrel Length: 26″ Octagonal

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a beach sight dovetailed to the barrel. The rear sight is a u-notch semi-buckhorn elevator sight dovetailed to the barrel. The upper tang has two drilled, tapped, and filled holes for mounting a tang sight, none included.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are two-piece smooth walnut with a capped forearm, straight grip, straight comb, and a crescent steel buttplate. There is light handling marks. There is a notable compression on the left side of the wrist. There are no chips or cracks. The LOP measures 13 1/8” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The buttplate has primarily worn to white with some light oxidation. The stocks rate in about Fine Plus overall condition as Refinished Antique.

Type of Finish: Blue & Case Colored

Finish Originality: Original.

Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is the faintest notable erosion in the bore. Most of the bore appears pristine. In this writer's opinion the bore rates 9/10.

Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 90% of its metal finish. The case color is strong and vibrant with minor muting in the high handling areas. There are light handling marks and light intermittent oxidation, primarily on the muzzle. The screw heads range from lightly tool marked to disfigured with serviceable slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this gun rates in about Excellent condition as Antique.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The hammer has a half-cock safety position. 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: None.

Our Assessment: This first year Marlin Model 1893 rifle, manufactured in 1893, represents the introduction of one of Marlin’s most important lever action designs and an early entry into the smokeless capable sporting rifle market. Chambered in .32-40 Winchester and fitted with a 26 inch octagonal barrel, this configuration reflects the late 19th century emphasis on accuracy, balance, and versatility for both target shooting and field use. The solid top Marlin action, combined with its long barrel and refined sighting arrangement, illustrates the company’s intent to compete directly with Winchester while offering its own mechanically distinct approach.

Condition remains a strong point for a first year antique example, with the rifle retaining substantial original blue and vibrant case color throughout. The bore is bright with sharp rifling and only the faintest signs of age, and the action functions correctly with its proper half cock safety. The walnut stocks show light handling wear consistent with careful use, retaining good shape and fit with no structural cracks. Overall, this is a well preserved and early Marlin Model 1893 that clearly reflects the quality and ambition of Marlin’s first production year for this landmark design.