J.C. Higgins Model 103.229 Bolt-Action .22 S/L/LR Rifle – 24" Blued Barrel, Hardwood Stock
This J.C. Higgins Model 103.229 is a pre-1968, American-made bolt-action rimfire rifle sold under the Sears house brand but built by Marlin. It stands out for its versatility with .22 Short, .22 Long, and .22 Long Rifle cartridges, its 24-inch blued carbon-steel barrel, and a reliable under-barrel tubular magazine that holds 17 rounds. Classic hardwood furniture with a smooth fore-end and period-correct iron sights round out a rifle valued by shooters and collectors alike.
Condition
Overall Condition: Good condition, showing some signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Condition: Good – Clean, well-maintained, minor wear marks.
Rifling: Good Rifling – Intact, well-defined lands and grooves.
Specific Condition Notes: This rifle shows minor to moderate scratching, scuffing, and blemishing on the metal surfaces and stock.
What’s Included
- J.C. Higgins Model 103.229 bolt-action rifle
- Factory blade front sight and elevator-adjustable rear leaf sight (installed)
The Model 103.229 traces its lineage to the Marlin Model 81, offering the same proven action under the J.C. Higgins label. Built before the 1968 Gun Control Act, it carries no serial number, a detail typical of its era and exempt under federal law.
Chambered for .22 Short, .22 Long, and .22 Long Rifle, the rifle feeds from a 17-round under-barrel tubular magazine loaded through a right-side port. This setup delivers flexible ammunition choices and generous capacity for plinking or small-game hunting.
A 24-inch carbon-steel barrel wears a traditional blue finish that matches the receiver. The open iron sights consist of a drift-adjustable blade front and an elevator-adjustable rear leaf, providing a familiar sight picture for rimfire shooters.
The hardwood stock features a straight comb, semi-pistol grip, and smooth fore-end. A plastic buttplate, stamped-steel trigger guard, and polished round bolt knob contribute to the rifle’s classic mid-century styling while keeping weight manageable.
Made in the USA, this J.C. Higgins offers collectors a tangible example of Sears’ collaboration with Marlin and gives shooters a durable, all-steel rimfire ready for range or field use.