I have a Marlin M1895 in 45-70 that I would like info on. I bought this thing in a pawnshop right. it is about 97%, and I think it to be very early, based on the following items:
-No receiver safety
-straight stock
-"thin" type forearms sans checkering, and buttplate only on buttstock
-Serial number on top of tang, where you can't install tangsite
-blued, as opposed to gold, trigger
-receiver at least appears to be factory drilled & tapped for a receiver sight.
the proprietor swore the gun was not altered in any way. if he is right, what is this gun worth?

2nd question regarding this - I am thiking of having the 2/3 magazine on the 22" bbl extended to the muzzle, polishing the action, and restocking. Will this help or hurt the vaule of the gun?
Thanks!

The receivers were factory D&Ted, as far as I know.

If you alter it, it will reduce the value.

What you've got is worth some $$$; but without pics to prove the condition, estimates of value are going to be just that. However, if you wanted to part with it, you'd probably find a taker relatively quick.

Does it have a slight crescent buttplate? Sounds like a 70s version of the Model 1895. In 1980(i believe) they went to a pistol grip and shortly thereafter, a safety.

Both of mine are 70s guns, and both came to me ready for a reciever sight.

I love mine, and both are accurate as heck. If I were you I would leave it the way it is- a classic.

Ric