Marlin Model 39A .22 S/L/LR Lever-Action Rifle, 24 Inch Barrel, 1954 New Haven, JM Proof, Takedown
This 1954 Marlin Model 39A is a New Haven-made, pre-safety lever-action .22 marked with the JM barrel proof. It uses the classic two-piece takedown system with a large knurled receiver screw, a 24-inch round barrel, and a full-length tubular magazine that loads at the muzzle. Chambered for .22 Short, Long, and Long Rifle, it offers a capacity up to 19+1 depending on cartridge length.
Condition
Overall Condition: Fair condition, showing extensive 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 barrel and action show no remaining finish. The wood is really rough. The butt pad is chipped up.
What’s Included
- Marlin Model 39A .22 S/L/LR lever-action rifle
Built in 1954, this Model 39A reflects New Haven manufacture and the pre-safety configuration with no cross-bolt safety. The exposed hammer and JM barrel proof add period-correct details that appeal to buyers seeking an early postwar example.
The two-piece takedown design enables quick separation of the receiver and barrel assembly via the large knurled receiver screw. This feature simplifies transport, storage, and maintenance while preserving the rifle’s traditional lines.
The rifle is configured with a 24-inch round carbon steel barrel and open sights: a blade front in a dovetail and an open rear with a stepped elevator. This setup offers straightforward sighting with the classic rimfire lever-gun profile.
Feeding is via a full-length under-barrel tubular magazine with a removable inner magazine tube, loaded at the muzzle. It accepts .22 Short, Long, and Long Rifle cartridges, with a capacity up to 19+1 in .22 LR, varying by cartridge length.
The hardwood stock has a pistol-grip profile and uncheckered panels, paired to a carbon steel receiver. Length of pull measures 13.25 inches. The buttplate is hard rubber/plastic and marked "Remington."