Marlin Model 1894CS .357 Magnum Lever-Action Rifle – 1983 First-Year Transitional, Micro-Groove, 18.5" Barrel, 9+1 Capacity
This 1983 Marlin Model 1894CS is a first-year transitional example that introduced the cross-bolt safety to the 1894 line. Chambered in .357 Magnum with a 9+1 tubular magazine, it features Marlin’s Micro-Groove barrel, a solid-top side-eject receiver that is factory drilled and tapped for optics, and a straight-grip walnut stock. Collectors value these early CS rifles for their limited production run and their blend of classic lines with updated safety features.
Condition
Overall Condition: Good – shows some signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Condition: Good – clean, well-maintained, minor wear marks.
Bore Rifling: Good Rifling – intact, well-defined lands and grooves.
Specific Condition Notes: The walnut stock displays several deep blemishes, and the rear sight sits slightly off center.
What’s Included
- Marlin Model 1894CS lever-action rifle
Introduced only in 1983, the first-year Model 1894CS combined Marlin’s proven 1894 action with a new cross-bolt safety, making this rifle an identifiable milestone for the series. The solid-top receiver ejects to the side, allowing straightforward scope mounting without the shell interference common to top-eject designs.
Its 18.5-inch barrel uses Marlin’s Micro-Groove system with 12 shallow grooves and a 1:16 right-hand twist, promoting consistent accuracy with both .357 Magnum and .38 Special loads. The satin-blued steel finish complements the smooth, uncheckered straight-grip walnut furniture, keeping the rifle’s profile classic and uncluttered.
Iron sights consist of a ramp front with a dovetailed blade and an adjustable semi-buckhorn rear. The receiver’s factory drill-and-tap pattern accepts common scope bases for those preferring optics. Safety is handled by the cross-bolt system plus a traditional half-cock hammer notch.
With its full-size frame, 13.4-inch length of pull, and a 9+1 capacity in a compact 18.5-inch barrel, this Model 1894CS offers a balance of handling and firepower that appeals to shooters and collectors alike.