In House Shipping:
Make: Marlin Firearms Co.
Model: 81 DL
Serial Number: NSNV
Year of Manufacture: 1937-1939
Caliber: .22 S/L/LR
Action Type: Bolt-Action, Tubular-Mag Fed Rifle
Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “-Marlin Firearms Co- -MODEL 81 DL- / -NEW HAVEN, CONN U.S.A.--22-S-L-LR- ''.
Barrel Length: 24”
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a Redfield Olympic globe sight with a concentric circle post fixed to a barrel mounted base. The rear sight is a fully adjustable Redfield International Match peep sight mounted to the receiver.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock is a single piece with a sling loop, semi-pistol grip, fluted straight comb, sling loop, and a textured rubber. There are scratches and pressure dents throughout. There is a small crack in the forend. The LOP measures 14.25” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The stock rates in about Very Good overall condition.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is semi-sharp. There is minor erosion and corrosion. In my opinion the bore rates 9/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 50% of its metal finish. There is some general operation wear on the bolt and receiver. The finish has turned mostly to a brown patina with moderate thinning. The screw heads are lightly tool marked with strong slots and pins are unmarred. The markings are clear. Overall, this rifle rates in about fair to Good condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this rifle. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: Leather sling.
Our Assessment: The Marlin Model 81 DL is a classic American rimfire bolt-action rifle that was produced between 1937 and 1939, just before the outbreak of World War II. Designed as a tube-fed, manually operated small game and target rifle, the 81 DL stood out for its accuracy, reliability, and affordable quality. The rifle was chambered for .22 Short, Long, and Long Rifle cartridges, making it a versatile tool for shooters of all ages. With its early pre-war production and no serial number (as was common before the Gun Control Act of 1968), this example reflects a golden era of American firearms craftsmanship. This particular rifle has been upgraded with high-end target sights—a Redfield Olympic globe front sight and a Redfield International Match peep rear sight—both known for their precision and favored by competition shooters. These additions indicate that this rifle was likely used for formal or informal target shooting. While the metal finish has thinned significantly and turned to an even patina, the mechanical integrity remains intact. The bore is still bright with semi-sharp rifling, and the action cycles properly. The walnut stock shows honest wear, including a small crack in the forend, but remains structurally sound and adds character to this well-loved shooter.
Whether you’re a collector of vintage .22 rifles, a fan of pre-war American sporting arms, or someone seeking a solid bolt-action rimfire with classic match sight upgrades, this Marlin Model 81 DL offers both historical value and functional potential. With its early manufacture, rugged design, and upgraded sights, it stands as a fine example of the kind of rifle that taught generations of Americans how to shoot.