The Model 1881 was the first lever action introduced by Marlin, and only 20,535 were manufactured between 1881 and 1892 compared to 63,871 of the Winchester Model 1876 it competed with. The Marlin was the stronger gun and could chamber the popular .45-70 Govt. cartridge, and it found buyers in the American West as is clearly shown in advertisements in the Dakotas, Montana, and elsewhere in the 1880s. This example has an early production three digit serial number (438) stamped on the underside of the receiver and third style two-line barrel legend ending with "REISSUE NOV. 9, 1880." The rifle is fitted with a German silver blade front sight and an elevation adjustable rear sight. The caliber designation "40 CAL" is stamped on the top barrel flat at the breech. The forearm and straight grip stock are nicely figured plain walnut.

Very good, retaining 20% plus original blue finish with smooth brown-gray patina associated with a well traveled long gun on the balance. Traces of original nitre blue remain on the loading gate. The refinished wood is very good with a tiny chip at the upper tang and minimal handling marks. Mechanically excellent.