Make: Marlin

Model: 1893

Serial Number: 302495

Year of Manufacture: 1904

Caliber: .30-30

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

Barrel Length: 26” Octagonal

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a Lyman No.4 Ivory hunting sight. The rear sight is a v-notch semi-buckhorn elevation sight dovetailed to the barrel. The 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 forearm, straight grip, straight comb, and steel crescent buttplate. There are compressions, nicks, scratches, and scuffs throughout. The LOP measures 13 1/8” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. There are no chips or cracks. Some of the deep marks on the stocks have darkened. The wood is dark where the wood meets metal. There is a small gash on the left side of the forearm. The stocks rate in about Very Good condition.

Type of Finish: Blue & Case Colored

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is dim. The rifling is sharp. There is minor erosion throughout. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 8/10.

Overall Condition: This rifle retains about none of its metal finish. Most of the case color has gone mute and has taken a light, even patina throughout. There is trace case color on the bottom tang where it has been protected by the lever. There is oxidation and light erosion throughout the metal, concentrated at the muzzle. There are a few dents on the barrel’s octagon. There are some minor scattered nicks, dings, and scratches throughout. The screw heads are sharp to tool marked with strong slots. The markings are clear. There is some dark patina and corrosion around the muzzle and mag tube. Overall, this rifle rates in about Good 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 .30-30, which was known for its effectiveness in big to medium-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.