Make: Marlin Firearms Co. 

Model: 1893

Serial Number: 281669

Year of Manufacture: 1903

Caliber: .38-55 Winchester

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

Barrel Length: 26” Octagonal

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a silver blade set between a base dovetailed to the barrel. The rear sight is a v-notch Semi-Buckhorn elevator sight dovetailed to the barrel. The upper tang has two drilled, tapped, and empty holes for mounting a tang sight (not included). The top of the receiver has two drilled, tapped, and filled holes.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are two-piece smooth walnut with a capped forearm, straight grip, straight comb, and steel buttplate. Ther are a couple minor compression marks. 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 stocks rate in about Excellent condition.

Type of Finish: Blue & Case Colored

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 10/10.

Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 97% of its current metal finish. The case color is exceptional throughout the receiver, lever, and hammer. The case color on the buttplate, top tang, and bottom of the lever has somewhat muted. The screw heads are sharp to tool marked with strong slots. The markings are crisp. There are some scratches on the receiver that have removed some of the finish and there is some minor thinning on the leading edges. Overall, this rifle rates in about Excellent condition as C&R.

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: 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 .38-55, which was known for its effectiveness in big-game hunting. 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 in any historical firearm collection.