Marlin 39A birthdate?

[Ridgerunner]

I have a 39A with sn 2XXX. Can anyone give me a birthdate on this one, also looking for an inside magazine tube for same. Numrich is sold out.

[Blaine]

You'll need one more digit....if it's 21, for example, it's a 1979.

[Ridgerunner]

Nope, I've had it over 40 years, and the serial number is four digit....

[jdad]

If it does not have a "letter" prefix, to the serial number, and it is under the lever then it is a first variation/first year (1939) 39A. These were basically a Model 39 from the receiver back, with a round barrel, new style mag tube, and a few other minor cosmetics. Like the 39, the prewar 39A's (1939-1941) had case colored receivers.


First Variation (no letter prefix)



Second Variation. Note changes to stock and lever. ("B" prefix)

[bobbyjack]

Mine is E-59xx four digit Ser# and made in 1948,ballerd rifling. Does yours have a prefix number as well?

Bob

[1894cfan]

I've got two 39a's, one was born in 1948 and the other in 1977.

[Ridgerunner]

jdad, mine looks just like that, without the tang sight. Many thanks. Now if I can just get it to feed properly. I totally stripped, cleaned and lightly lubed the action, but it still tries to send the rounds in at about a 45 degree angle....maybe the spring in the internal magazine insert??

[jnyork]

You need a new cartridge guide spring, this is the little flat spring that sits in the top of the receiver just aft of the chamber. Sometimes they are missing, sometimes just worn out. Only a couple of bucks from Brownell's.

[jdad]

You need a new cartridge guide spring, this is the little flat spring that sits in the top of the receiver just aft of the chamber. Sometimes they are missing, sometimes just worn out. Only a couple of bucks from Brownell's.

Jerry is correct, but before you buy a new one check and see if the screw is loose or the spring just needs to be bent down slightly.