Marlin Model 1897 Takedown Rifle – Mint Bore – .22 LR, L, S

Marlin Rifle – Model 1897 Takedown

Manufacture: 1897+ – Caliber: .22 LR / .22 Long / .22 Short – Excellent original condition, mint bore.

Chambered for .22 Long Rifle, .22 Long, and .22 Short cartridges, this Marlin Model 1897 impresses with its excellent state of preservation, superb octagonal barrel, and flawless mechanical condition.

History

Introduced in 1897, the Marlin Model 1897 was the direct successor to the Marlin 1892, featuring several mechanical improvements. This lever-action rifle was designed to fire the new .22 caliber ammunition—including the .22 Long Rifle—while remaining compatible with .22 Long and .22 Short cartridges. Available in various barrel lengths and a "Takedown" version, it can be quickly disassembled into two parts for easy transport. A direct competitor to small-caliber Winchester models, the Marlin 1897 enjoyed significant commercial success.

Our Model

This Marlin Model 1897 Takedown is in excellent original condition. The receiver has developed an elegant, uniform "gunmetal" patina, while the octagonal barrel retains a substantial amount of its original period bluing, as does the lever. The markings are correct and deeply struck: the Marlin address, model designation, calibers, and serial number (262XXX) are all fully legible. Its genuine Takedown configuration allows for rapid disassembly into two parts. The original wood features a beautiful, uniform finish and is in excellent condition, free of damage or repairs. The hard rubber buttplate, bearing the Marlin monogram, is also remarkably well-preserved.

Mechanically, the rifle performs superbly: the action is smooth, the lock-up is solid, the firing pin strike is crisp, and the mechanism is in perfect working order. Its 24-inch octagonal barrel—chambered for .22 LR, .22 Long, and .22 Short—features a mirror-like bore with deep, well-defined rifling.

A magnificent Marlin Model 1897 Takedown that combines authenticity, mechanical quality, and excellent preservation; it is just as appealing for a prestigious collection of American firearms as it is for vintage shooting.

The firearm is sold with its official classification certificate designating it as a Category D historical firearm, issued by the Saint-Étienne National Proof House.