Marlin model 39

[jwmtx]

Marlin 39 #S948

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I recently bought the above listed rifle. Mr. Brophy does not explain the "S" in the serial #, only the "SH". The SH designates the improved bolt. What does the S designate? Why would they designate a weak bolt if they knew it was there? It seems they would just fix it. It seems the S must designate something else. Anyone have any ideas? Thanks, James

 

[davera]

"S" is a year code ... 1959 (I say without looking it up right now, but it can be found)

 

[johnmcl]

JW,

The 'S' designator shows your 39A to be of 1958 to 1959 vintage. Sounds like you have a great old classic.

 

[XTerminator]

If your Marlin is a Model 39 it was made between 1925 and 1932.
If it is a Model 39A then the 1959 date is correct.
The Model 39 had no prefix from 1922-1925, then an "S" prefix from 1925-1932, and finally an "HS" prefix from 1932-1938.
The HS prefix bolt was designed for the use of "High Speed" ammo.

Steve

 

[jwmtx]

XTerminator, thanks for your responce. I have Col. Brophys book on Marlins and have read it twice. He says they were made 1922-36. He makes no mention of the "S" designation but does mention the "SH" as having corrected the broken bolt problem. How would they have known to put an "S" on the ones with the weak bolt since they were already made and apparently unawear of the bolt problem? That part confuses me. It's sort of like the chicken and the egg. Thanks for your reply, James