Marlin Firearms Co. Model 1894CL Classic JM .218 BEE Lever Rifle
SOLD FOR: $1,226
WOA#: WY240220BA027
Make: Marlin
Model: 1894CL Classic
Serial Number: CL218099
Year of Manufacture: 1988-1993
Caliber: .218 BEE
Action Type: Lever Action Rifle with Tubular Magazine
Markings: The left shoulder of the barrel is marked “THE MARLIN FIREARMS CO., NORTH HAVEN, CT., U.S.A. / MODEL 1894CL “CLASSIC” – CALIBER 218 BEE” and at the rear with a “JM” proof. The right shoulder of the barrel is marked with Marlin’s two-line warning. The upper tang is marked with the serial number.
Barrel Length: 21.5”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a brass beaded blade dovetailed at the front of the barrel. The rear sight is a buckhorn elevator sight with a U-notch that is dovetailed to the barrel. The top of the receiver is drilled, tapped, and filled in four places for mounting a scope.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are two-piece smooth walnut with a straight grip, straight comb, checkered black hard rubber Marlin buttplate, nose cap, and Marlin “bullseye” in the belly. There are some scattered faint scratches throughout with some more notable scratches on the belly. There are no chips or cracks. The LOP measures 13.25″ from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The plate shows some faint marks and the checkering is sharp. Overall, the stocks rate in about Fine-Plus condition.
Type of Finish: Blue
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling sharp. There is no erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 10/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 96% of its metal finish. The action shows light operational wear. The screw heads are sharp. There is some scattered oxidation on the barrel and magtube as well as a few very minor nicks. The left side of the receiver has a small thin scratch. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle is in about Fine condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly and smoothly. The receiver also contains a push safety that blocks the hammer from hitting the pin. 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 1894 is one of the stronger lever-action designs ever produced, it has been in production, with very few changes, for over a century, now. The action is robust, dependable, and remarkably easy to disassemble and clean. As a field rifle, it is handy to pair this light and easy to use carbine with a similarly chambered revolver. Cowboy Action Shooters have embraced this design, as well. This is a nifty little rifle, and will make a very happy owner of the winning bidder! The 218 BEE 1894CL was a very limited run only in production for a few short years which makes this a collectable piece that will fit nicely in any lever action or cowboy shooter collection. Please see our photos and good luck! – L.S.
