Me, I get what I want, not something close.
And comparing a '97 marlin from 1899 to a 94/22 or a 39A is not even close IMHO.
I would venture that the 'customer at the store' may well
have been the owner of the gun on consignment.
For the '97 at 1100 to be a steal, it would have to be in like new factory
condition with no alterations, have most of the receiver case hardening
still present, and have a stone mint bore to boot.
The early guns like the one you are looking at are made for
standard velocity .22's only.
You'll need to pull it apart to check the bolt for any
evidence of cracks from having been used with high velocity ammo.
The takedown procedure would also help to see internal machining patterns and
wear that should be consistent with the external finish on the lever.
(Lots to look for when checking for original finish!)
In case you have not already done so, you might make sure to
check 'completed auctions' on GB, rather than asking or fishing prices
to see what they are really going for when they actually sell.
Reads like you might not have a lot of experience looking at
older models, so my vote would be no until you study up on
the subject gun.
Better to miss out on one rather than to learn
what you have after it is paid for.
My .02, JT
