Marlin Ballard No. 5 Pacific .45-70 Govt. Single-Shot Rifle, 30 in Half-Octagon Barrel, Case-Hardened Receiver, Antique
This antique Marlin Ballard No. 5 Pacific stands out with its 30 inch half-octagon, half-round barrel in .45-70 Govt. and classic double-set triggers paired with a large loop lever. Built in the late 19th century in the United States, it features a steel receiver with mottled color case-hardening, walnut stock with a shadow-line cheekpiece, and tang-mounted aperture rear sight. It is a well-appointed example of a collectible Ballard single-shot rifle.
Condition
Overall Condition: Good condition, showing 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: There are markings from prior handling and use. Light surface rust is present in a few areas. The bore is bright and clean. The under-barrel wiping rod is absent.
What's Included
- Marlin Ballard No. 5 Pacific single-shot rifle (.45-70 Govt.)
The No. 5 Pacific configuration combines a 30 inch half-octagon, half-round barrel marked '45-70 CAL' with under-barrel wiping-rod thimbles. The action is a falling-block with an external hammer, known for simple operation and consistent lockup in a single-shot format.
This rifle is outfitted with double-set triggers and a large loop lever, offering a crisp, tunable trigger release and comfortable manipulation. The tang-mounted adjustable aperture rear sight and dovetailed front blade provide a precise and period-correct sighting setup.
Metal finishes include a blued barrel and a steel receiver with mottled color case-hardening. The walnut stock set features a straight wrist, a shadow-line cheekpiece, a steel crescent buttplate, and a forend tip cap, reflecting the refined fit and finish of the period.
As an antique produced during the circa 1876–1891 era, this Marlin Ballard represents a desirable late 19th century American single-shot design. Chambered in .45-70 Govt., it combines classic chambering, period sights, and distinctive Ballard features in a collectible package.