Can't decide if I like this 1894cp...

[Garndawg]

Hi'ya gents,

I've been hunting for a 1894 in .357 and recently tripped over one. Upon making the deal, I find this short-barreled thing with ports cut into it and a hood on the front sight.

My initial thought was 'not what I'm looking for", but bought it anyway as the price was right and whatdoIknowanyway.

So I'm now the proud owner of a 1894cp in virtually new shape w/ the exception of a scope mounted on it. And I have a few questions:

After some internet data mining, I find out Marlin only made these things for a couple of years. And there's not one for sale anywhere online that I can find. So I guess that makes this more rare than usual, no?

I'm not a gun collector. I buy guns to shoot and hunt with. If this rifle has more value than a standard 1894c, I'd be inclined to sell it and go buy the carbine.

Thoughts?

 

[ECVMatt]

G-dawg, you would sell that thing in a heart beat. Lots of folks are dying to get that one. If you go to Marlin Owners website it would sell in minutes. However here are a few things to consider first. I own the .44 mag version and it is great. I also own a full sized version. I much prefer the shorter version. It is so handy and shoots like a dream. Also some folks feel the the new Marlins aren't as good as the older ones. The model you have was made during the good period, so buying a new one might not be the best option. I would shoot it and see how you like it. I have been hunting that rifle for some time as a companion to my .44, but have had no luck. Heck if I had the dough I would offer to buy it from you right now. You wouldn't be interested in a full sized .44 mag would you?? Just kidding.

Do your self a favor and shoot it first. I bet you will like it. You are a lucky man to find a deal on one of those, don't let it slip away.

Have fun,

Matt

 

[zeke]

Garndawg-have the 357 and 44 mag versions of that rifle. The 357 is considerably more accurate than the 44. It may be one of the first Marlin 357's to use the ballard style rifling. This makes it accurate with the lighter bullet weights, something the micro-groove barrels were not very good at. Would suggest you shoot it first, before selling it.
Also try cycling some of the wider hollow points through to check for function. Some of these used over powered mag springs.

 

[Armored farmer]

If you bought it right, and like it....keep it, despite it's value.

 

[kanook]

I have an 1894SS45LTD

It is a 1894 stainless 16" 45colt limited laminated stock

Only 200 were made.

Shot a nice 120lb doe this past season with it.

It would cost you more to have made what you all ready have.