Marlin Firearms Co. Model 1894 .25-20 WCF Lever Action Rifle C&R
SOLD FOR: $750
WOA#: WY240308AT003
Make: Marlin
Model: 1894
Serial Number: 435408
Year of Manufacture: 1906-1915
Caliber: .25-20M (WCF)
Action Type: Lever Action with Full Length Tubular Magazine
Markings: The top of the barrel is marked “MARLIN FIRE-ARMS CO. NEW-HAVEN, CT. U.S.A. / PATENTED OCT. 11. 1887. APRIL 2. 1889. AUG. 1. 1893.” in front of the rear sight and “25-20 M” at the receiver. The underside of the receiver is marked “435408”.
Barrel Length: The round barrel is 24” in length.
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a blade dovetailed to the barrel. The rear sight dovetail has been filled. The top tang is drilled, tapped and filled for an installed tang sight. The top of the receiver is drilled, tapped, and filled.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are two piece smooth walnut. The buttstock has a straight grip, straight comb, and a steel buttplate while the forend has a steel nose cap. The wood shows scattered compressions, dings, scratches, and draglines that have darkened with age. There are no chips or cracks. The LOP measures 13 1/4” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate, which shows a mottled light patina and some light pitting. The stocks rate in about Very Good overall condition.
Type of Finish: Blued, Case Colored
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is gray with sharp rifling. There is some corrosion concentrated at the midlength. There is no notable pitting. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 8/10 for C&R.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about None of its finish. The case coloring has gone completely mute and both the receiver and barrel have lost nearly all of their finish and have taken some mottled patina. There is light erosion evenly throughout the magtube and barrel exterior. There is scattered oxidation on the metal, particularly concentrated on the lever. There are small nicks, dings, and scratches throughout the metal. The screw heads range from sharp to tool-marked with strong, usable slots. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle rates in about Fair-Good condition for C&R.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The hammer has a half-cock safety. The trigger is light and crisp. We did not fire 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 1894 in .25-20 is a splendid example of late 19th-century American firearms craftsmanship. Introduced in 1894, this lever-action rifle quickly earned a reputation for its balance of power, precision, and user-friendly operation. Chambered in the versatile .25-20 Winchester cartridge, it was a preferred choice for small game hunting and target shooting.
The Model 1894 features Marlin’s characteristic solid-top receiver and side ejection, ensuring strength and durability while facilitating easy scope mounting. Its smooth lever-action mechanism allows for rapid cycling, making it a joy to shoot. The .25-20 cartridge, known for its mild recoil and reliable accuracy, paired perfectly with this rifle, offering excellent performance for various shooting activities.
The Marlin Model 1894 in .25-20 is not just a firearm; it’s a piece of history that reflects a bygone era of American innovation and rugged outdoor life. Its enduring design and reliable performance make it a treasured item for collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate the legacy of Marlin firearms. Please see our photos and good luck on your bid! – L.S.
