The Marlin Model 1881 was the first big game lever action rifle and was even submitted for Ordnance Department evaluation chambered for the 45-70 Government cartridge. This example was manufactured circa the mid 1880s and features an octagon barrel marked with two line patent and address information ahead of the sporting rear sight and the caliber designation at the breech. The front sight is a beaded blade. The receiver is marked with the serial number on the bottom, and the upper tang is tapped for peep sight mounting. It is fitted with a smooth walnut forearm and straight wrist stock with a nickel plated crescent buttplate and forend cap.

Fair as refinished and fitted with replacement sights. The rifle has a blend of blue finish and artificial brown patina along with some traces of nickel plating on the forend cap. There are areas of light to mild pitting most notably on the buttplate. The wood is fine with some scrapes and small dents. The action is fine, and the markings are crisp.