Originally developed as the Model 1895 by John M. Browning, the "Potato Digger" was an early development in gas-operated firearms, using a gas port near the muzzle of the barrel to power a spring loaded lever arm to cycle the action. This arm, which projects down and out from the weapon with significant force during the firing cycle, is the source of the weapon's nickname. Originally manufactured by Colt, the production of the arm was taken over by Marlin Rockwell, who received the rights, the tooling, and the standing military contracts to the Russian and Italian governments. Primarily used as a training weapon by American forces, the Marlin found additional use as aircraft and tank armament in addition to being issued to National Guard units and the North Russia and Siberia Expedition Forces sent to intervene in the Russian Civil War. Measuring 42 inches in overall length, the Marlin is fitted with a blade front and a flip-up elevation adjustable rear sight, with a replacement heavily ribbed barrel (serial number 667, gun number 713) and a wooden pistol grip. The barrel and receiver are separately marked with the Two-line New Haven address and caliber markings on the receiver. A tripod is included, green painted steel legs with a brass carriage hardware, properly configured to not interfere with the action arm, with traverse swivel, gear-driven elevation adjustment and a swiveling gunner seat/kneerest.

Fine, with 40% plus of the original blue finish, showing areas of brown and gray patina, bright edge wear and scattered handling marks. The grips are fair, with a larger vertical chip absent from the lower right panel and mild dings. The tripod is in good order. Mechanically excellent. NOTE: This weapon is a National Firearms Act (NFA), fully transferable Class 3, which is registered with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, (BATFE) that is classified as a "Curios or Relic" as defined in 27 CFR, 478.11. These weapons are still subject to the provisions of 18 U.S.C. Chapter 44 and 27 CFR part 478. Provenance: Cater Joseph collection.