From the Vault: Marlin 1894CL .32-20
Synopsis
Steve reviews the Marlin 1894 CL, a rare lever-action rifle chambered in .32-20. He covers its smooth shooting, vintage charm, ammo rarity, and collector appeal, inviting viewers to share their experiences.
What You Will Learn
In this video, viewers will learn about the history, features, and shooting experience of the Marlin 1894 CL rifle, including its classic .32-20 chambering, design details, and collector value. Steve also shares insights on ammo availability and customization options.
Benefit of Watching
By watching, viewers gain a deeper appreciation for this rare lever-action rifle, learn what makes it special among Marlin models, and pick up useful tips for collectors and shooters alike.
Introduction
The Marlin 1894 CL is a traditional lever-action rifle with a design that reflects the legacy of American firearms manufacturing. The "CL" stands for Classic, and it lives up to the name. This specific rifle is chambered in 32-20, though it was also available in 25-20. Both are vintage cartridges that remain popular with collectors and shooters who appreciate classic calibers.
Chambering in 32-20 and 25-20
Steve highlights that this particular rifle is chambered in 32-20, a caliber he reloads for and uses in both rifles and revolvers. The 32-20 Winchester is a mild-recoiling round that delivers excellent accuracy and fun range time. The 25-20 version is equally charming, and both cartridges contribute to the Marlin 1894 CL's appeal as a soft-shooting, classic lever gun.
Sights and Potential for Scope Mounting
This Marlin 1894 CL comes equipped with traditional open sights. While it currently maintains that classic sight picture, Steve hints at possibly adding a scope in the future for better range and visibility. The receiver design allows for mounting optics, making it versatile without compromising its classic look.
Marlin Safety Button and Personal Preference
One feature Steve is not overly fond of is the Marlin button-style cross-bolt safety. While it's not his favorite, he’s willing to overlook it due to the rifle’s overall performance and rarity in this caliber. For purists, this safety can be a minor gripe, but it does not take away from the functionality of the firearm.
Why the 1894 CL is a Great Rifle
With age, lighter rifles in smaller calibers become more appealing to many shooters. Steve emphasizes how enjoyable the Marlin 1894 CL is to shoot. It punches clean holes in targets without punishing the shooter. Whether at the range or out in the field, this rifle offers a smooth shooting experience that appeals to both new and experienced shooters.
Production History and Rarity
The Marlin 1894 CL was produced in relatively limited numbers. Manufacturing began in the late 1980s and ended in the early 1990s. Because of this short production window, these rifles are harder to find today, especially in good condition. For collectors, this makes the 1894 CL an excellent find.
Ammo Availability and Limited Runs
Despite the vintage nature of the cartridges, both 32-20 and 25-20 ammunition are still occasionally listed by manufacturers like Winchester and Hornady. However, Steve notes that these runs are infrequent, so if you see a box of 32-20 or 25-20 on a shelf, grab it while you can. The ammo’s intermittent availability adds to the rifle’s collector interest.
Other Marlin 1894 Calibers
While the Marlin 1894 line is commonly associated with calibers like .44 Magnum and .357 Magnum, Steve considers the .32 caliber versions to be the most desirable. He also mentions the extremely rare 218 Bee variant. If you own one of those, consider yourself fortunate — they are highly sought after and rarely encountered.
Community Feedback and Wrap-Up
Steve closes by inviting viewers and fellow collectors to share their experiences with the Marlin 1894 CL or other variants in the comments. He values community input and encourages others to join in the conversation. Whether you’re reminiscing about a rifle from the past or looking to add one to your collection, the 1894 CL is a standout piece of lever-action history.
