Curious Relics #079: The Automatic 1 – Marlin A1 Part II
Sam.S 12.13.23
Welcome, if you are a newcomer to this fun bi-weekly segment of AllOutdoor.com! Last time around we went over the history of the Marlin A1 and how it arrived just in time to replace the easily full auto converted open bolt Marlin Model 50. Today we are diving into its main variations. To the rabbit hole!
If you want to see this gun go from a rusty boat anchor to a conserved piece of history make sure to check out firearm conservations!
Recent Content in Curious Relics:
- Curious Relics #078: Back From The Dead – Marlin A1
- Curious Relics #074: A Historic Gem – The Spanish Ruby
- Curious Relics #075: A Dime a Dozen – The Spanish Ruby Pistol
- Curious Relics #076: Ruby in The Rough – Spanish Ruby Pistol
- Curious Relics #077: Ruby at The Range – Spanish Ruby Pistol
Welcome to our recurring series of “Curious Relics.” Here, we want to share all of our experiences, knowledge, misadventures, and passion for older firearms that one might categorize as a Curio & Relic – any firearm that is at least 50 years old according to the ATF. Hopefully along the way you can garner a greater appreciation for older firearms like we do, and simultaneously you can teach us things as well through sharing your own expertise and thoughts in the Comments. Understanding the firearms of old, their importance, and their development which lead to many of the arms we now cherish today is incredibly fascinating and we hope you enjoy what we have to share, too!
Variations: Marlin A1
The Marlin A1 .22 long rifle semi-automatic rifle was introduced in 1936 as a replacement for the Model 50, changing from open bolt to closed bolt operation while retaining the 6-shot detachable magazine and ability to mount receiver sights. Early versions (1936-1938) retained some Model 50 features like the rear safety and stamped metal trigger guard, later versions saw changes like a side safety and plastic trigger guard. The A1 was produced until 1946 when it was discontinued after a 10-year run.
Marlin A1 (1936 -1941)
Marlin A1 Version 1: Chambered in 22LR with a six-round detachable magazine, standard marlin iron sights, and a large takedown knob. They also were drilled and tapped at the rear to be equipped with peep sights. The very first Marlin A1 is discernable solely by its stock. They were equipped with a similar stock to their older Model 50 brother which was walnut and had a long groove on the forend area. According to the little information I have these were only made in 1936.
Marlin A1 Version 2: Rolled out in 1937 and exactly the same as the first version in almost every way. The second version expresses its uniqueness with a cheaper-looking al smooth walnut stock. No groove. Made until roughly 1938.
Marlin A1 Version 3: Made until 1941, the third version again was the same as its predecessor besides small things. It began the transition from metal trigger guards to plastic ones and most majorly left out that large takedown knob. The safety also made a move from the rear of the receiver to the right side where it would remain for the rest of the A1 lineage. The stocks began to take on a more glossy and light appearance.
Marlin A1E (1936-1941)
Marlin A1E Version 1: Appearing simultaneously from the start (1936), the Marlin A1E was similar to the second version of the Marlin A1. It had a smooth stock, the takedown screw was present, and had a metal trigger guard. The main difference with the A1E models is that they were equipped with peep sights at the rear of the receiver from the factory as well as a hooded front globe sight. Made until 1939.
Marlin A1E Version 2: These negated the takedown screw and metal trigger guard. Made until 1941.
Note: From my findings, the peep sights are listed as “short-based (S-13) Marlin 12R” sights. These are different from the standard “long-based” models. If anyone out there has a sight they want to help a guy out with let me know!
Marlin A1C (1941-1946)
Marlin A1C: Very similar to the most recent predecessor except the stock went through another change with a “beavertailed” stock in which the forend portion was enlarged and had a flat spot by the receiver. They also were equipped with “rocky mountain” rear sights.
Marlin A1DL (1941-1946)
Marlin A1DL: Basically taking the A1C’s place as the target model, the A1DL (my personal rifle which is missing the target parts) was equipped with a rear peep, front hooded globe sight, had the new and improved stock, and most notably came stock with sling swivels. This was the only model to come stock with sling swivels.
End of Part Two: Marlin A1
The Marlin A1 rifle existed for a 10-year production run from its 1936 introduction replacing the Model 50 to its discontinuation in 1946. Early A1 versions retained some Model 50 parts like the rear safety and metal trigger guard, later versions saw changes like a side safety and plastic trigger guard. Notable variants include the A1E, produced 1936-1941, which came with factory-installed receiver peep and hooded front sights. The A1DL, made 1941-1946, also featured a receiver peep sight plus a hooded front sight and sling swivels. The A1’s lifespan saw variety in offered models and incremental changes while fulfilling a niche in the .22 recreational rifle market.
In closing, I hope our Curious Relics segment informed as well as entertained. This all was written in hopes of continued firearm appreciation and preservation. We did not just realize how guns were supposed to look and function. It was a long and tedious process that has shaped the world we live in. So, I put it to you! Is there a firearm out there that you feel does not get much notoriety? What should our next Curious Relics topic cover? As always, let us know all of your thoughts in the Comments below! We always appreciate your feedback.
