JohnZMI
Member
I bought my first Marlin 39-A new in 1963 when I was stationed in Texas, and carried it all over the state for several years after rabbits, varmints, etc., and sold it locally before we headed back home in 1965. Got the itch for a 39-A again two years ago, and after a lot of looking, found a JM-stamped Golden 39-A Mountie which the serial number says was made in 1967.
The deceased owner's widow recalled that as far as she knew he never shot it, but cleaned it regularly. My detailed inspection showed no indication that it had ever been fired, and it was scrupulously clean. Great gun, as solid and slick as they come. I don't think you can make a better choice than a Marlin.
I also have a Henry Golden Boy, and it's also butter-smooth and extremely accurate - just doesn't have the same collectability attributes of a Marlin.
You can buy a Henry almost anywhere, and they're good guns - Marlin 39-A's are getting pretty scarce and they don't make them any more, so if you find a good one, buy it! You'll be happy either way.
The deceased owner's widow recalled that as far as she knew he never shot it, but cleaned it regularly. My detailed inspection showed no indication that it had ever been fired, and it was scrupulously clean. Great gun, as solid and slick as they come. I don't think you can make a better choice than a Marlin.
I also have a Henry Golden Boy, and it's also butter-smooth and extremely accurate - just doesn't have the same collectability attributes of a Marlin.
You can buy a Henry almost anywhere, and they're good guns - Marlin 39-A's are getting pretty scarce and they don't make them any more, so if you find a good one, buy it! You'll be happy either way.
