The History and Charm of the Marlin Model 38 Rimfire

Finding a well-maintained marlin model 38 these days feels a bit like uncovering a hidden treasure in a dusty corner of a local gun shop. While most people immediately think of classic lever-action rifles when they hear the Marlin name, their foray into the world of slide-action rimfires produced some of the most elegant and enjoyable shooters of the early 20th century. The Model 38, produced between roughly 1920 and 1930, represents a specific era where craftsmanship didn't just mean the gun worked—it meant the gun looked and felt like a piece of art. ...

February 27, 2026 · 7 min · Tami Edouard