New to the forum

[davesp3]

I just found this website and after seeing the amount of information available I had to join. I've collected a few Marlins over the years. They include a model 1888 in 38-40, a model 336, a model 39A, and a model 88C. I'm the third owner of the 1888 as I got it 22 years ago from the 87 year old son of the original owner. He said it has only had about 3 boxes of cartridges shot though it. Looking at the bore I believe him. I would like to know how to document any information on these rifles and get them appraised. I live in southern Illinois southeast of St.Louis,Mo. Thanks for a great website.

David

[Regnier (gunrunner)]

David;

Welcome to the website. Glad to have you!
As far as getting them appraised, you might want to consider bringing them the NRA Convention in St. Louis in April. You cannot bring them into the show without an exhibitors badge, but someone with the Marlin Firearms Collectors Association display could go with you to your car and inspect them for you.
Marlin records are very incomplete compared to the "W" brand. The records will show the model, caliber, barrel shape and length and ship date. If there are other factory options present, it may list them too.
The records do not reflect where a gun was shipped.
I hope this helps.

[davesp3]

Thanks. I plan on being there but I don't think I'll bring my rifles with me. I would prefer not showing them on the street or in a garage in downtown St.Louis. My luck some "nice" citizen would see them and come back for them after I went back into the convention. I hope to meet you there.

[Regnier (gunrunner)]

Dave;

Ideally, you would wait until you are ready to head back home from the show before returning to your car for the appraisial. No one would know your guns would be in the car, and then just leave from there. It could be done.

[davesp3]

I might try that method then. Thanks. I hadn't thought about doing it that way.