Turnbull Marlins

A Pair of Upgraded Leverguns

For many decades, if someone thought, utilitarian levergun, a mental image of one Marlin or another would likely have appeared in their mind. That is not criticism, it’s just how it was – but not anymore. Marlin even has a custom shop these days that produces some high-dollar custom rifles. And as will be examined shortly, Turnbull Restoration Company is offering less-expensive, gussied-up Marlin leverguns.

All of this is, in a way, returning to Marlin levergun origins. Starting with the Model 1881 and lasting until about 1915, Marlin leverguns could be ordered with a myriad of special features. Consider the Model 1893 as an example. This was the company’s version chambering rounds such as the .25-36, .30-30, .32-40, .38-55, etc. A standard straight-grip Model 1893 was stocked with straight-grain, noncheckered American walnut and a steel crescent buttplate. According to a 1896 flyer, that rifle would have cost the buyer $13.90 with a round barrel, or $15 with an octagonal barrel.

From the custom options listed in 1896, a pistol-grip buttstock and forearm of select wood, checked (That’s the word Marlin used instead of checkering.) added $11.20. Engraving started at $5. Full nickel-plating of all metal was $5, but if only the “trimmings” were nickel-plated, the cost was $2.50. (Presumably, “trimmings” included the forearm cap and buttplate.) If the buyer of a custom rifle did not wish for a barrel-mounted rear sight or wanted it placed somewhere other than at the standard location, the charge was $1. Interestingly, color case hardened receivers were standard. For perhaps a “snobby” buyer, Marlin offered English walnut for a pistol-grip buttstock with matching forearm, checked with special finish. That cost an extra $20.