1957 Marlin 81 DL

[357smallbore]

Just took possession of a Marlin 81 DL with the factory peep sight on it from a family member, Has no serial # as it was manufactured in 57. For as old as it is, it's in wonderful shape. I plan on taking it shooting this weekend. Anyone got one of these and would share their experiences.

 

[NIGHTLORD40K]

I had one, and still have an 80E.

For some reason, my 81 just wasn't very accurate, and the heavy barrel profile and tube-mag made it rather awkward to hold off-hand.

That said, I really liked the extra-large bolt handle knob, smooth action, and sights. The original Marlin rear cam-elevator peep assemblies are worth more than the whole rest of the gun.

The (fiberglass?) trigger guard on mine was disintegrating when I got it, so I replaced it with a simple generic steel bit.

Overall, it was a nice old .22, but I needed room in the armory for nicer ones. Think I paid $100 and sold it for $150.