Manufactured c. 1881, this is a solid representative example of a Marlin Ballard No. 6 Schuetzen rifle that was period fitted with a heavy target barrel by W. Beckmann. These rifles were highly desirable for competitive shooters around the turn of the century and are often found fitted with their preferred precision barrels and modifications for more accurate shooting, like on this example. Along with the heavy target barrel, the lever on this rifle was period modified with a finger spur/palm rest incorporated into the loop lever. The standard three-line J.M. Marlin and Ballard markings are on the left of the action and the serial number is on the bottom. The bottom of the barrel is numbered to match the receiver and the W. Beckmann markings are on the front face of the muzzle. The barrel is chambered in an unidentified .38 caliber cartridge. It is fitted with a globe front sight with spirit level, no provisions for a rear sight on the barrel, and a long rang Vernier peep sight mounted on the upper tang. It is mounted with a checkered forearm with horn Schnabel tip and a straight grip stock with high Schuetzen comb, prominent cheek piece and a nickeled brass Swiss buttplate.