Marlin 39 (not "A") dating source please?

[ApacheCoTodd]

I figure it's time to pull this rascal out and give it a "once over". I scored it a while back at estate sale prices and have been holding onto it till I had time to tighten it up.

No restoration - just a shooter. It's going off to my nephew as a PhD gift since he's now finished his Post-Doc in Bio-whatzit-mech... Suffice it to say he's on his way to be a super-villian.

Anyhow, he's always after my 39s and I thought this one should be his.

Wondering as to the date of manufacture.

Yup, looked at the "39 Club". Interesting to blow through but dizzying if you're looking for particular info.

Wandering about, I note that some folk warn against Hi-Vel .22 through "S" marked 39s. is this the case? If so, I'll pass on another.

If the warning is valid - what's the failure on these if hi-vel is shot?

This one:

S 1430 under the lever.
Octagon
Looks like it had a rear swivel stud... factory?

 

[ApacheCoTodd]

So, I see "S" means 1959.

Found a Marlin Owners Group page.

Curious then - why would 1959 guns be different from '58 or '60 as regards hi velocity ammo?

Todd.

 

[rule303]

That gun is earlier than 1958, before the serial prefix denoted the year. It would have been built sometime between 1922-1936, when they were all changed to 39A's. If the serial # has an HS prefix it would have been proofed for High Speed ammo. I don't think the white line spacer is original to the gun, but I could be wrong. The white/black plug in the stock was not for a sling swivel, it is a Marlin "bullseye" which they put on all walnut stocks starting some time in the thirties, and are still there today.
If it isn't an HS gun, I wouldn't recommend shooting a steady diet of HV through it. It most likely won't cause a catastrophic failure, but it will put more stress on the action and wear it out.

 

[dfariswheel]

The models of 39 that did not have an "HS" serial number prefix were known for breaking the bolt if shot with High Speed ammo.
All you have to do is shoot it with Standard Velocity ammo and you can use it.

Early versions with no serial prefix, or an "S" prefix were noted for superior workmanship and finish and are hunted for by collectors.
Some rifles were fitted with 2X or 3X fancy grain walnut.

The 39 was made from 1922 to 1938.