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Marlin Model 1894
Marlin Model 1894
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Marlin 1894C rollmark

Key Information

"The Marlin Repeating Rifle" ad detail, Virginia Tech Bugle 1897

The Marlin Model 1894 is a lever-action repeating rifle introduced in 1894 by the Marlin Firearms Company of North Haven, Connecticut. At its introduction the rifle came with a 24-inch barrel and was chambered for a variety of rounds such as .25-20 Winchester, .32-20 Winchester, .38-40, and .44-40. Variants in other chamberings remain in production today.[1]

Even though both are lever-action rifles and named similarly, the Marlin 1894 is different from the Winchester Model 1894.

History

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Special style side ejector bicycle rifle (1902)

Marlin produced its first lever-action repeating rifle as the Model 1881, a strong but heavy design that could accept powerful large-caliber black powder cartridges similar to those used in single-shot designs used for buffalo, bear, and other big game hunting.

This was followed by the Model 1888 which was a top-eject action like the 1881 with several improvements, most important was the incorporation of a locking lug locking the breech. It was chambered in the WCF (Winchester centerfire) family of cartridges originally developed for the Winchester 1873 rifle: .44 WCF, .38 WCF, and .32 WCF (also known as the .44/40, .38/40, and .32/20).

The designer and patentee of the Model 1888 and subsequent Marlin lever action rifles (including the Model 1894) up to the Model 1897 was L.L. Hepburn (Lewis Hepburn), a Marlin firearms engineer.[2] The Marlin Model 1889 was the very first lever-action repeater to incorporate a flat solid steel top receiver with side ejection of spent cartridge cases.[3] Marlin's design team believed that a solid-top steel receiver would be safer in the event of a hang-fire cartridge, and stronger than a top-eject frame of equivalent weight.[4][2] The Model 1889 was chambered for the same cartridges as the 1888. Internal upgrades included a locking lug and firing pin system that prevented discharge until the bolt was locked in place. The new model also utilized a cartridge carrier that raised automatically, closing the end of the magazine after the head of the cartridge had passed into the carrier, thus preventing the next cartridge from entering the carrier and jamming the action.[3]

The Marlin 1894 was originally patented on August 1, 1893 by L.L. Hepburn.[5] With this design, Marlin simplified and strengthened the internal lever-action mechanism while continuing the practice of using a flat solid steel top receiver with side ejection.[5] With the Model 1894, Marlin removed the rear-locking lug, which extended down into the trigger guard and had a tendency to pinch the shooter's fingers during rapid-fire cycling.[3] Other design improvements over the Model 1889 included a one-piece trigger and a two-piece firing pin to prevent the rifle from firing unless the finger lever was fully closed or if the locking lug were missing.[2] Additionally, the finger lever lock of the Model 1889 was eliminated on the Model 1894 and replaced by a latch built into the lever itself.[2] This model was chambered in the same calibers with the addition of the .25/20 and later .218 Bee.[6]

The Model 1894 and its successors found particular favor in Canada, Alaska, and the Pacific Northwest, where precipitation combined with cold temperatures sometimes caused top-eject designs to freeze solid.[7] During the Klondike Gold Rush, the solid-top Marlin design was preferred by many prospectors facing subzero temperatures and dangerous animals, since the solid top frame was better at keeping freezing rain, snow and dirt out of the operating parts of the action.[8][7][4]

With the popularity of magnum revolver cartridges in the 1960s, in 1969 Marlin produced a short-action Model 1894 that was designed for modern high-pressure .44 Magnum cartridges. Marlin had briefly manufactured its Model 336 chambered for the .44 magnum cartridge. However, after a few years of development Marlin reintroduced the model 1894.[2]

In the 1970s, Marlin added the Model 1894C/CS in 1979 .357 Magnum, and released a version in .41 Magnum in 1984.[2] In the mid-1990s, Marlin changed the .357 and .44 barrels from 12-groove-or-more "Micro-Groove" rifling to 6-groove "Ballard"-style rifling.[1]

Variants

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The Model 1894 is produced in several variants, as shown in the table below. All variants are made in lever action, include a black walnut, straight grip stock, and except for the 1894CL, include adjustable semi-buckhorn folding rear and ramp front sights. The Model 1894CL features marble adjustable, semi-buckhorn rear and marble carbine front sights.[2]

The Model 1894SS, caliber .44 Magnum, and the 1894CSS, caliber .357 Magnum are the only Model 1894s manufactured in stainless steel.

The Model 1894M (1983-1989), caliber .22 Magnum, no loading gate, magazine tube loading only. Approximately 12,000 made.

The Model 1894P (2000–2002), caliber .44 Magnum, and the 1894CP (2001–2002), caliber .357 Magnum both have 1614 inch ported barrels.[2]

The Model 1894CSBL (2011) caliber .357 Magnum, was to come in stainless with a big-loop finger lever, 16.25-inch barrel, pistol-grip laminated stock, and a one-piece XS scope mount with folding "ghost ring" aperture sight. However, shortly after announcing its release, Marlin suspended production indefinitely. It was finally released in 2018 along with the SBL variant chambered in .44 Magnum.

The Model 1894CB, in .32 H&R Magnum, loads from the front of the tubular magazine, like the Marlin Model 39A rimfire rifle, and has a faster, 10% shorter throw lever action.[9]

There are also several "Limited Edition" Marlin 1894 rifles which are Stainless Steel with grey, laminated furniture and "tru-glo" sights. They were pre-drilled for a scope base and included a solid, rubber recoil pad. They are considered very collectible as only 250 of each caliber were made. There is a unique barrel stamping on these rifles which is denoted as Marlin 1894 LTDSS, followed by the caliber; example "Marlin 1894LTDSS 41 Magnum". These rifles were chambered in .357 Magnum/.38 Special, .41 Magnum/.41 Special, .44 Magnum/.44 Special, and .45 Long Colt.[9]

There were a total of 2600, 1894s Rifles made in 1997 labeled as "The Marlin Limited" in .45 colt, .357 magnum and .44 magnum with 16.25" barrel.[9]

Model Caliber Capacity Barrel Rifling Twist rate OAL Weight
1894S .41 Magnum
.44 Magnum
10 rounds 20 in 12-groove Micro-Groove 1:38 in (right hand) 37½ in 6½ lbs
1894C .357 Magnum
.38 Special
9 rounds 18½ in 6-groove Ballard 1:16 in (right hand) 36 in 6 lbs
1894CP .357 Magnum
.38 Special
8 rounds 1614 in 6-groove Ballard 1:16 in (right hand) 3334 in 6 lbs
1894CSS .357 Magnum
.38 Special
9 rounds 18½ in 6-groove Ballard 1:16 in (right hand) 36 in 6 lbs
1894CST .357 Magnum
.38 Special
6 rounds 1614 in (threaded) 6-groove Ballard 1:16 in (right hand) 35 in 6½ lbs
1894CSBL .357 Magnum
.38 Special
8 rounds 1614 in 6-groove Ballard 1:16 in (right hand) 3334 in 6 lbs
1894CL .32-20 Winchester 6 rounds 22 in 6-groove Ballard 1:20 in (right hand) 39½ in 6 lbs
1894FG .41 Magnum 10 rounds 20 in 12-groove Micro-Groove 1:20 in (right hand) 37½ in 6½ lbs
1894 .44 Magnum
.44 Special
10 rounds 20 in 6-groove Ballard 1:38 in (right hand) 37½ in 6½ lbs
1894SS .44 Magnum
.44 Special
10 rounds 20 in 6-groove Ballard 1:38 in (right hand) 37½ in 6 lbs
1894P .44 Magnum
.44 Special
9 rounds 1614 in 6-groove Ballard 1:38 in (right hand) 3334 in 6½ lbs
1894CCL .45 Colt
.41 Magnum
.32-20
.44-40
10 rounds 20 in Octagon 6-groove Ballard 1:38 in (right hand) 37½ in 6½ lbs
1894CB .32 H&R Magnum 10 rounds 20 in tapered octagonal 6-groove 1:16 in (right hand) 37½ in 6½ lbs

References

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Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
The Marlin Model 1894 is a lever-action introduced in 1894 by the Company of , designed as a compact, short-action chambered primarily for pistol-caliber cartridges such as .25-20, .32-20, .38-40, and .44-40. Developed by inventor Lewis L. Hepburn as an improvement over earlier short-action models like the 1888 and 1889, it featured a solid-top receiver and side-ejection mechanism for enhanced reliability and safety during operation, distinguishing it from competitors like Winchester's offerings. Originally produced from 1894 through the early 20th century with parts manufactured until 1903 and final assembly continuing until 1935, the Model 1894 quickly gained popularity for its versatility in hunting small to medium game and cowboy applications, thanks to its lighter weight of around 6 pounds and tubular magazine capacity of 9 to 10 rounds depending on caliber. Over time, the design evolved to include additional calibers like .357 Magnum, .44 Magnum, .45 Colt, .22 WMR, and .218 Bee, while maintaining core features such as barrels (often round or octagonal, typically 20 to 24 inches) and blued steel finish with walnut stocks. In the modern era, following Marlin's acquisition by Remington in and subsequent financial challenges leading to its purchase by Sturm, Ruger & Co. in 2020, the Model 1894 continues production in , with updated manufacturing techniques like CNC-machined components and cold hammer-forged barrels for improved accuracy and durability. Current variants as of , such as the , SBL, Trapper (including a 2025 introduction in ), and Dark series, emphasize pistol-caliber performance for , , and sport shooting, often featuring 10- or 11-round capacities, adjustable semi-buckhorn sights, and recoil-absorbing buttstocks, with weights around 6.4 pounds and overall lengths of approximately 37.75 inches. The rifle's enduring design has made it a staple in American firearms , celebrated for its balance of tradition and functionality.

Design and Features

Action Mechanism

The Marlin Model 1894 employs a lever-action mechanism patented by L. L. Hepburn on August 1, 1893, which simplified and strengthened the internal components compared to prior designs, enabling reliable operation with cartridges. This system features a solid-top receiver, a key innovation by Hepburn that provides enhanced rigidity and durability while allowing for side ejection of spent cases, distinguishing it from earlier top-ejecting levers. In the cycling process, the shooter rotates the finger downward and forward, which pivots to unlock the bolt via a disengaging locking block, retracting the bolt rearward to extract and eject the spent cartridge case through a side in the receiver. This motion simultaneously cocks the to the full-cock position and advances the carrier to position the next round from the under-barrel tubular magazine. Closing the upward and rearward then drives the bolt forward, chambering the fresh cartridge, engaging the locking block to secure the bolt in place, and aligning the two-piece with the primer. The design incorporates a built into the itself, replacing earlier finger-lever locks and ensuring the action only fires when the is fully closed, thereby enhancing during operation. The hammer system utilizes a one-piece trigger mechanism with three distinct positions: fully forward (uncocked, after firing), half-cock (a safety notch that blocks the to prevent accidental discharge), and full-cock (ready to fire upon trigger pull). This half-cock notch, combined with the two-piece —a safety feature originating in designs from —ensures the rifle cannot discharge unless the action is properly cycled and the intentionally released. The solid-top receiver's flat profile and the lever's streamlined facilitate ambidextrous handling, as the offset spur can be mounted on either side of the receiver, allowing quick repeat shots with minimal interference in either hand orientation.

Key Specifications

The Marlin Model 1894 base design incorporates lightweight construction suitable for a lever-action carbine, with an unloaded weight ranging from 6 to 6.5 pounds. Overall length measures 33.75 to 39.5 inches, depending on barrel configuration.
SpecificationDetails
Barrel LengthTypically 20–24 inches, with examples including 24-inch octagonal barrels on early models.
Rifling Twist Rate1:38 for .44-40 caliber.
Magazine Capacity10 rounds in the tubular under-barrel magazine for most pistol calibers.
SightsAdjustable semi-buckhorn rear and brass bead front as standard.
Stock MaterialsAmerican black walnut with straight grip in classic models.
Screw Thread Sizes6-48 for barrel holes (e.g., front sight screws), allowing better engagement in thinner barrel walls without weakening them; 8-40 for receiver holes.

Caliber Adaptations

The Marlin Model 1894 was originally chambered for several pistol-caliber cartridges prevalent in the late 19th century, including , , , and . These chamberings were specifically designed to handle black powder loads, with the rifle's lever-action mechanism and tubular magazine optimized for the lower pressures and velocities of black powder typical of the era. To adapt the Model 1894 for modern high-pressure cartridges, Marlin introduced the New Model 1894 in 1969, starting with the . This adaptation involved significant engineering changes, including a strengthened receiver and locking block to withstand the 's operating pressures exceeding 36,000 psi, along with enhanced recoil-absorbing features in the stock and buttplate to manage the increased . Subsequent caliber expansions in the 1980s built on this reinforced design. The was introduced in 1979, necessitating barrel and chamber modifications to accommodate its 35,000 psi pressure limit while ensuring reliable extraction and feeding in the lever-action cycle. In 1983, the .22 WMR (Winchester Magnum Rimfire) was added in the Model 1894M variant, featuring an external tubular without a loading gate and optimized for , with a capacity of 11 rounds. Similarly, the .41 Magnum followed in 1984, with further refinements to the chamber dimensions and twist rate (typically 1:20) to stabilize heavier bullets and handle pressures up to 45,000 psi without compromising the action's integrity. The was introduced around 1988, requiring adjustments to the feed system for its longer case while maintaining compatibility with standard .45 Colt pressures of about 14,000 psi. In 1993, the —a small centerfire —was chambered in the Model 1894CL, involving barrel tuned for its higher velocities (twist rate 1:12) and a 7-round capacity suited for . The , added in 2005, required less pressure-related reinforcement—limited to about 21,000 psi—but included specialized barrel profiling and tuning for smoother cycling of its shorter, rimmed case. Under Ruger ownership, the Model 1894 continued to evolve with the 2025 introduction of the Trapper variant in , marking the first lever-action chambering for this cartridge. Adaptations focused on feed system reliability, including adjusted feed ramps and carrier geometry to properly align the rimless 10mm cases during loading from the tubular magazine, while ensuring incompatibility with similar rounds to prevent malfunctions; this allows consistent handling of factory 10mm loads achieving velocities up to 250 fps higher than from handguns.

History

Development and Introduction

The Marlin Model 1894 emerged as an evolutionary advancement in lever-action rifle design, building directly on the foundations of earlier Marlin models such as the 1881, , and 1889. The Model 1881, Marlin's first successful lever-action repeater, utilized a top-ejection system that proved prone to malfunctions, including jamming from hot ejected brass casings during rapid fire. Similarly, the short-lived Model 1888 retained top ejection in a scaled-down frame for pistol cartridges, exacerbating reliability issues under field conditions. The Model 1889 addressed these shortcomings by introducing side ejection, which improved operational smoothness and reduced the risk of spent cases interfering with the action, setting the stage for further refinements in the 1894. Central to the Model 1894's development was the work of firearms designer L.L. Hepburn, who engineered the rifle's signature solid-top receiver and side-ejection mechanism. This solid-top configuration provided superior structural integrity over the open-top designs of predecessors, minimizing flex and enhancing durability while allowing for potential scope mounting—a forward-thinking feature for the era. Hepburn's innovations simplified the internal components, including a one-piece and an integrated finger-lever latch, making the action more robust for pistol-caliber ammunition. These advancements were formalized through key patents filed by Hepburn in 1893, most notably U.S. Patent No. 502,489, granted on August 1, 1893, which detailed an improved locking mechanism for breech-loading firearms. The patent emphasized a secure rear-locking bolt and a two-piece system, designed to prevent accidental discharge and ensure precise alignment during cycling, directly influencing the Model 1894's reliable operation. Building on the side-ejection principles from the Model 1889, this locking system eliminated the rear-locking lug, streamlining without compromising safety. The Model 1894 was officially introduced in 1894 by the Marlin Fire Arms Company, then based in , marking a pivotal moment in the firm's lever-action lineup. Production commenced immediately at the New Haven facility, with the rifle chambered initially for popular pistol calibers like , , , and to appeal to hunters and frontiersmen seeking a compact, high-capacity . By 1900, strong early demand reflected the design's immediate appeal in a competitive market dominated by larger rifle-caliber levers.

Early Use and Popularity

The Marlin Model 1894 quickly found favor during the (1896–1899), where its solid-top receiver and side-ejection design provided superior reliability in subzero conditions by preventing snow and ice buildup from jamming the action. Prospectors preferred it over competitors such as the , valuing its robustness for self-defense against wildlife in the harsh Alaskan and Canadian wilderness. Among civilians, the Model 1894 emerged as a favored saddle rifle for ranching and small game hunting, thanks to its pistol-caliber chamberings like .32-20, .38-40, and .44-40, which enabled ammunition compatibility with revolvers and offered manageable recoil for versatile field use. Its compact carbine configuration, often equipped with a saddle ring, suited horseback travel and quick handling in brushy terrain, making it a staple for Western ranchers and sportsmen. Production and sales reflected the rifle's early success, with 55,119 units manufactured and sold between 1894 and 1903 alone, capturing significant market share against the in regions prioritizing weather-resistant designs. Overall, approximately 250,000 units of the original Model 1894 were assembled until 1935. Early firearms catalogs frequently highlighted the Model 1894's elegant lines and smooth operation, positioning it in and promotional materials as a refined "gentleman's gun" suitable for discerning shooters.

Evolution Through the 20th Century

In the 1920s and 1930s, the Marlin Model 1894 underwent refinements to better optimize its design for smokeless powder cartridges, building on its original capabilities while maintaining compatibility with pistol calibers such as .32-20 and .38-40. These updates included strengthened internal components to handle increased pressures, reflecting broader industry shifts away from black powder loads. Production continued steadily under the ownership of Frank A. Kenna, who had acquired the company in 1924 following financial challenges, ensuring the rifle's enduring appeal for hunting and sporting use. World War II significantly disrupted manufacturing, as Marlin halted civilian production from 1941 to 1945 to prioritize military contracts, including parts for the and production of the . Post-war surplus parts facilitated a gradual resumption of assembly in the late 1940s, while the company introduced improved walnut stocks and enhanced blued finishes to meet renewed demand for reliable lever-actions. This resurgence under the Kenna family's long-term stewardship marked a period of stability, with the Model 1894 regaining popularity among civilian shooters. A pivotal advancement came in 1969 with the introduction of a chambering for the Model 1894, capitalizing on the cartridge's rising fame for and , which significantly boosted the rifle's sales and versatility. By the and 1990s, Marlin expanded the lineup with models designed for superior corrosion resistance in harsh environments, alongside limited-edition variants featuring specialized engravings and finishes to attract collectors. These innovations sustained production through the century, with Marlin remaining independently operated until its acquisition by in December 2007.

Variants and Production

Original and Mid-Century Variants

The original Marlin Model 1894, introduced in 1894, was a lever-action designed for pistol-caliber cartridges, featuring a 24-inch round or octagonal barrel, blued , and a straight-grip American walnut stock. It was chambered primarily in , , , and , with a typical tubular magazine capacity of 10 rounds depending on the caliber. This base model emphasized reliability through its solid-top receiver, side-ejection mechanism, and simplified square-bolt action, making it a popular choice for hunters and shooters seeking a compact alternative to larger rifle calibers. Production of the original series spanned from 1894 to 1903 for new parts, with assembly continuing until 1935 and totaling approximately 46,000 units. A notable configuration of the early Model 1894 was the takedown variant, available as a special-order option from mid-1894. This version allowed the barrel and to be quickly detached from the receiver via a threaded takedown screw, facilitating easier transport in a saddle or pack without compromising the rifle's structural integrity. Chambered in the same calibers as the base model, such as .25-20 and .32-20, the takedown model retained the 24-inch barrel length and straight stock but appealed to outdoorsmen needing a disassemblable for fieldwork. These takedown models were produced in limited numbers during the initial run, adding to their collectibility today. By the mid-20th century, demand for pistol-caliber lever-actions had waned, leading to discontinuation of the Model 1894 in 1934 amid shifting preferences toward higher-velocity rifle cartridges. However, the design was revived in 1969 in . The Model 1894C carbine in (compatible with ) was introduced in 1979, adapting the classic action for modern high-pressure loads. This mid-century variant featured a shorter 18.5-inch barrel for improved maneuverability, blued finish, and a straight walnut stock, with a tubular magazine capacity of 9 to 10 rounds. Weighing around 6.5 pounds, the 1894C emphasized quick handling for brush hunting and home defense, marking a bridge between the original design and later specialized iterations. Deluxe configurations of the Model 1894, including those with checkered walnut stocks for enhanced grip, were available as special orders during the original production and reintroduction periods, though specific mid-century runs remained modest in volume.

Modern and Limited Editions

The Marlin Model 1894 experienced renewed interest in the late 20th and early 21st centuries through variants emphasizing material innovations for durability and aesthetics, produced under prior to the Remington acquisition. These models incorporated components and laminate stocks to appeal to hunters and collectors seeking weather-resistant options without sacrificing the rifle's traditional lever-action design. The 1894SS stainless steel variant, introduced in 2002, was chambered in and and featured a corrosion-resistant finish ideal for in wet or coastal environments. This model retained the standard 16.5-inch barrel and tubular magazine capacity of 10+1 rounds, with the stainless extending to the barrel and receiver for enhanced longevity. In 2011, the 1894CSBL carbine variant was introduced with a blued finish and gray laminate for improved resistance and reduced weight compared to traditional , while maintaining a 16.5-inch barrel suited for gun applications. The laminate provided superior stability in varying temperatures and humidity, making it popular for all-weather field use in calibers like . Post-1990 models included a drilled and tapped receiver to accommodate scope mounts and , facilitating precise sighting for or target without altering the rifle's profile. This adaptation reflected growing demand for versatile sighting options in lever-action rifles. Limited editions like the 1894 , produced in the , featured a case-hardened receiver finish reminiscent of early 20th-century designs and were issued in small runs of 500 to 1,000 units to commemorate anniversaries or special events. Chambered typically in with a 24-inch octagonal barrel, these collector-oriented models emphasized historical with checkered stocks and brass accents.

Recent Ruger Production

In 2020, acquired the assets of from the bankrupt for approximately $28.3 million, marking the end of Remington's troubled stewardship of the brand. Production of Marlin lever-action rifles, including the Model 1894, was subsequently relocated to Ruger's facility in , where manufacturing resumed with a focus on restoring the marque's reputation for quality. By 2023, Ruger had addressed key deficiencies from the Remington era, such as inconsistent machining and rough actions, through enhanced precision tolerances, smoother lever mechanisms, and the use of cold hammer-forged barrels for improved accuracy and durability. The revival began in June 2023 with the reintroduction of the Model 1894 chambered in .44 Remington Magnum, featuring a 20-inch barrel, American black walnut straight , and a 10-round tubular magazine, with a suggested retail price of $1,239. This model incorporated upgraded components like a nickel-plated pusher and an improved trigger system for crisper pulls, earning praise for its balanced handling and reliable feeding. Later that year, in November, Ruger expanded the Classic series to include a variant, maintaining the same 20-inch barrel length and walnut furniture while offering compatibility with ammunition for versatile use in , small game hunting, and . Production continued to evolve into 2025, with the announcement of a straight-stock Model 1894 in aimed at enthusiasts, preserving the classic lines with a 20-inch barrel and blued finish. In October 2025, Ruger introduced the Trapper Series Model 1894 chambered in , a compact with a 16.1-inch barrel, laminate , and 10-round capacity, designed for enhanced velocity from the pistol cartridge and broad compatibility while excluding . These new models, priced above $1,200, reflect Ruger's commitment to high standards, with refined fit and finish that surpass prior iterations in smoothness and consistency.

References

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