I was just given a marlin model 1881 built in 1883.its complete and works like a charm.ser#6012.im thinking I scored

You are one lucky dude. What caliber and any pics?

Those are cool old rifles sandpit
My brother has a really clean one (he's a life long Marlin nut).
His is old enough that it is marked "Browning Brothers, Ogden Utah" on the barrel.

That thing is surprisingly accurate with his handloads, although I haven't seen him shoot it in recent years.

Interesting cartridge carrier in that gun.

I'm thinking you scored too ; hope you enjoy it.

-Ted

Friend has one in .38-55, the model with the lighter frame. Still shoots very well.

I've got a Marlin model 1881 in 40-60 cal, black powder round that my grandfather used to hunt with in central Adirondacks along the Blue ridge,I've tried to get ammo for it and found some at Midway USA but they couldn't send it to NY,I'd love to fire the gun cause I've kept it great condition since I got it

I have a small frame 1881 Marlin in 32-40 with pistol grip
stock checkered & dst triggers. Made in 1886 has a mint bore. I would like to sell this gun $4700.00

I had an 1881 in 45-70, I shot 405 Gov ammo and killed several deer. I sold it on a day when I took a "stupid" pill have regretted it ever since

I ended up finding rounds for my Marlin Model 1881 Cal 40-60 from BlackHills Powder and Ammo they have a 245Grn Flat nose slug with 60Grns of FFG black powder a 20 round box was about 30$ plus shipping, but I want to tell you it kicked like a mule Ive never shot a 375H&H but Im sure that Ole Marlin of mine was real close, it was the most fun makeing white smoke I ever had and it didnt group that bad at 100 yrds @ 1"