Not a Double!
 

Hoot Mon!
I have had a hankering for a repeating shotgun for some time now, and just ordered this nice Marlin. It is a 'Standard Model A Grade' in 12 gauge. It was made prior to January of 1899. The next version had a slide release button and was actually marked 'Model 1898'. This will be my 3rd 'Standard'. They are very well made and will cycle shells from 2" to 2-5/8". RST or Polywad 2-1/2" shells will be perfect for this gun. Cheers!

It's beautiful! Really like the color of the metal. I have a few old Colt revolvers that have that wonderful soft brown-silver patina.

Thanks, Jeff. There are few moving parts on this particular model. The 1898 added a few more in the way of safety devices. The 'Standard' has a secondary sear that holds the hammer until the tilting breech block/wedge is in place. If this piece is missing or stuck, the gun will fire with the breech unlocked. In order to unlock the action, the firing pin must be pushed all the way in. Marlin repeaters have a bad reputation as being unsafe to fire. If they are not maintained properly, the safety devices will not function and allow the gun to fire out of battery. The quality is superb 19th century Marlin all the way. I prefer this model due to the lack of extra parts. I kept my others scrupulously cleaned and the incorporated safety features worked flawlessly. Unlike my first two 'Standards' this gun is all original, right down to the buttplate. I had a 'C' grade that was engraved and had gorgeous wood. Shoulda kept it!

I too, have read that these old Marlin pumps can be dangerous. But I sure like your gun. I've got a Win 97 that looks about the same. I'll have to make a picture of it. I would rather have an old pump than a new one. I just like old pump shotguns.

Thanks, Steve. The secondary sear is in place on my gun, but does not function reliably. I am sure it is gummed up. I made it work a few times, but it should be fine after I break the gun down for a thorough cleaning and inspection.

I took my GH to Kearcher the Great because it would not cock on opening. He took off the plates and fixed it saying that the grease in there had turned to something like concrete. I think they used bearing grease in those days...some do today. So I agree that the old guns need to be opened up and cleaned out.

I have the later gun with the push button release and it is a model C needs a new forend. I am going to run off a new one through my duplacator next week

I have an engraved model that is for sale. The gun is with Gerry Andrews now and functions flawlessly. Very pretty wood and straight stock Contact Gerry through this forum for price and details Thanks, Jim

I wish I had kept my 'C' Grade. The engraving was tastefully done and the wood had nice figure. The 'D' Grade Standard Gun and Model 1898 both had a Damascus barrel and more engraving. At least my 1905 Marlin catalog showed Damascus. When they discontinued that option I do not know.

I tried the Marlin today with some RST 2-1/2" Maxi Lites. It functioned flawlessly and the hulls did not exhibit any signs of excessive headspace. Soon, I should have another barrel for it....a 26" version with a modified choke.