April 24-25, 2019 Extraordinary, Sporting, & Collector Firearms
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 4/25/2019
This was a short-lived rifle that appeared in 1888 and ended in 1890. It was extremely popular model and a favorite of early gun writer Ned Roberts. The .32 extra long cartridge was a splendid rifle for small game. The full octagon blued barrel barrel was a standard feature. They used a cast iron frame with case colored finish, case colored rifle buttplate. Special order factory double set triggers and a Marlin improved graduated peep sight with standard bead front sight and plugged rear. A nearly identical rifle can be seen on page 115 on figure 11-13 in "Ballard: The Great American Single Shot Rifle" by Dutcher. CONDITION: Barrel retains approximately 90% original factory blue finish with sharp edges. Caliber is not designated but measures correctly and barrel is numbered to frame. Frame retains 30-40% original case colors with the balance nickeled out and some age spotting. Stocks are excellent, proud to metal, with an extra coat of varnish added at one time. Traces of color on buttplate. Lever is patina. Stock have a few handling marks. Fine action and a strong rifled bore with continuous lands and grooves. Far above average condition as most of these were well used on rural farms during the late 19th century.
Manufacturer
Marlin Ballard