[PeppeG18]

Hello, I want "the" marlin 39 in my collection, can you describe the differences between these models and which do you buy to have in your collection?

 

[sneekpete]

The top photo isn't a Model 39. The photo on the top is an 1897 Century Limited, there were two variations - Employee Model (first 100 serial numbers) and the regular production - serial prefix 1897xxxx.
The bottom photo is a Model 39 Century Limited, made in 1970 (33965 produced) and a few in 1971 (221 produced).
Actually... I would buy both (I did)

 

[two80rem]

If either one became available to me, it wouldn’t be a question of which one. I’d be doing everything I could to get both.

 

[buckeyeshooter]

Hello, I want "the" marlin 39 in my collection, can you describe the differences between these models and which do you buy to have in your collection? View attachment 919881
View attachment 919880

I would but the top one all day long. I like the pistol grip and long barrel.

 

[ColoAngus]

I've owned several of both. I'm not a fan of the 1970 model. Sticking a medallion and a tacky brass plaque on a model 39, and making thousands of them, isn't a collectible. Marlin87 has a 1970 in the classifieds section, and no one has jumped on it. I would sell my 1897 if someone if interested.

 

[Marlin87]

I like the top one better, not a big fan of the brass butt plate, brass in stock, and brass on forearm end.