Guns International #: 101282870
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Guns International #: 101282870
Category - Marlin Rifles - Antique
- Winchester Rifles - Antique Lever
Seller's Information
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Seller: Brent Wilburn
Company: Antique Arms, Inc. Member Since: 11/19/15
First Name: Brent
Last Name: Wilburn
State:
Georgia
Zip: 30052
Country: United States
Phone: (678) 471-1432
Phone2: (678) 471-1432
Premium Seller
Active Listings: 36
Total Listings: 580
Seller Type:Private Seller
Return Policy: 3 day inspection and return policy on used guns and accessories.
Payment Methods:
Money Order, Certified Check
Marlin Model 1897 97 .22 Rimfire Rifle **NICE**
w/ Antique Serial Number
Description: This is a scarce early Marlin Model 1897 .22 Lever Action Rifle with Antique Serial Number under 175,000 indicating it was manufactured before Jan. 1, 1899. This was Marlin's first .22 rifle with a takedown feature making it easier to tote around which coincided with the bicycle craze of the 1890's. These Antique 97's are difficult to find because they were only made for roughly 18 months before the legal cut-off for Modern Firearms. Since all Model Marlin Rifles share the same consecutive serial range, its difficult to know exactly how many Model 1897's were made in this small window before 1899 but I doubt more than 3000-4000 and probably less than that. You can usually find a rare Model 1888 Marlin Lever Action (production approx. 4,000 1888-1890) with considerable ease compared to an antique Model 1897. They are simply a bear to find and the few we do turn up are often in poor shape no finish, refinished, and almost always have terrible bores. This one is FANTASTIC. I've only found one example that was nicer than this one in the past 20 years and at the time, it sold for more than double what we have this one priced for. In fact, I'm seeing Model 1893 30-30's with antique numbers priced higher than this one and they are much more common. This one has the desirable 24" Octagon Barrel with standard full magazine and standard hard rubber crescent buttplate that is unbroken with the Marlin Logo. The original case colors on this rifle are about 70% with the balance turned to a scattering of patina from natural aging. The colors are quite strong in the protected areas and there are likely some bright colors under some of the original factory lacquer in the corners which has turned dark over the years. The top of the frame has the early desirable rounded top marked "MARLIN SAFETY" in script and MODEL 1897 on the upper tang. Barrel has the correct early Marlin address and correct patent dates. Original Front and Rear Sights although the rear sight is missing the little elevator (I'm currently looking for one btw to go with it). The barrel and magazine tube have 95% original blue with a little bit of light brown patina mixing through. The walnut stocks are in Excellent Shape with just a few minor handling marks, no crack, no sling swivel holes, no repairs, no chips, and 98% of the original factory lacquer that is still a nice light reddish orange hue. Wood to metal fit is perfect. The buttplate is solid with no chips or breaks and a clear distinct Marlin logo. The action is nice and the bore....Get Ready For This...the Bore is nearly Excellent which is almost unheard of on a 19th century .22 rimfire rifle. The bore is bright and shiny with very nice lands and grooves. This is a great little rifle in collector grade condition that was looked after and is 100% original aside from the rear sight elevator. This is not an easy rifle to find and the few nice ones that have survived rarely come up for sale. SOLD Antique: Yes Manufacturer: Marlin Mfg Model: 1897 97 Caliber Info: .22 Condition: NRA Antique Fine+ to Exc Barrel Type: Octagon Manufacture Date: Pre-1898 Antique |
Guns International #: 101282870
Guns International #: 101282870