Make: Marlin

Model: 1893

Serial Number: 212741

Year of Manufacture: 1900

Caliber: .38-55 Winchester Center Fire

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 two bases dovetailed to the barrel. 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 buttplate. There are a few minor handling marks. The LOP measures 13 1/8” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. There are no chips or cracks. 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 minimal erosion in the bore. There is some minor corrosion in the muzzle. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 9/10. 

Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 50% of its metal finish. The balance of the finish on the receiver is a light, even patina with some trace amounts of case color in protected areas. The lever shows a darker patina throughout. The leading edges of the barrel have thinned. There are some minor scattered nicks, dings, and scratches throughout. The screw heads are tool marked with strong slots. The markings are clear save the barrel markings that have slightly faded. There is some dark patina and corrosion around the muzzle and mag tube. Overall, this rifle rates in about Fine 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: This rifle comes with a factory letter confirming a date shipped of October 18, 1900 with 26” Octagon 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 .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.