Manufactured in 1887. The Model 1881 was just the beginning of a long line of successful lever action models for the Marlin Firearms Company, and they were one of the most legitimate competitors with Winchester for a share of the lever action market in the American West. The special order 24 inch barrel is marked with the two-line Marlin address and patent dates. The serial number is marked on the bottom of the receiver. It is fitted with a German silver blade front sight and elevation adjustable notch rear sight. It is mounted with a smooth forearm and straight grip stock with a crescent buttplate.