The Marlin Golden 39A lever-action rifle, a classic in American firearm history, is renowned for its reliability and accuracy. Regular maintenance, including periodic disassembly and cleaning, is crucial for keeping your 39A in top condition. This guide provides a step-by-step walkthrough of the disassembly process, focusing on safety and clarity. Remember: Always prioritize safety when handling firearms. Ensure the rifle is unloaded and the action is open before beginning any disassembly.
Tools You'll Need
Before starting, gather the necessary tools. You'll likely need:
- A soft-cloth or gun cleaning mat: To protect your firearm's finish and prevent scratches.
- A small screwdriver (possibly multiple sizes): Marlin 39A's utilize various screws. Check your specific model.
- Gun oil or cleaning solvent: For lubricating moving parts after cleaning.
- Cleaning patches and brushes: For thorough cleaning of the barrel and action.
- A punch (optional): Some users find a punch helpful for removing certain pins. Use caution and avoid excessive force.
- Properly sized wrenches (if applicable to your specific model/year): Some Marlin 39A's might require wrenches for specific parts.
Step-by-Step Disassembly
This guide assumes a basic level of familiarity with firearms. If you're uncomfortable with any step, consult a qualified gunsmith.
1. Safety Check:
- Visually inspect the rifle: Ensure the chamber and magazine are empty. Cycle the action several times to double-check.
- Point the rifle in a safe direction: Always point the muzzle in a safe direction, away from yourself and others.
2. Removing the Bolt:
- Open the action: Open the lever fully.
- Remove the bolt: The bolt should now slide freely out of the receiver. Gently pull it straight rearward.
3. Removing the Lever:
- Locate the lever screw(s): This is typically located under the lever. (The exact location and type of screw may vary depending on the model year of your rifle.)
- Remove the screw(s): Carefully unscrew the lever screw(s) using the appropriate screwdriver.
- Remove the lever: Once the screw(s) are removed, the lever should come off easily.
4. Disassembling the Receiver (If Necessary):
This step is generally not required for routine cleaning, but may be necessary for deeper maintenance. It's strongly recommended to consult a detailed diagram or video specific to your 39A model if you decide to proceed with full receiver disassembly. This often involves removing additional screws and potentially pins requiring specialized tools.
5. Cleaning and Reassembly:
Once disassembled, thoroughly clean all parts. Pay close attention to the bolt, receiver, and barrel. After cleaning, lightly lubricate all moving parts with gun oil. Reassembly is the reverse of the disassembly process. Make sure all parts are properly seated before proceeding.
Important Considerations:
- Variations Across Models: While the general process remains consistent, minor variations may exist between different Marlin 39A models and manufacturing years. Always consult your owner's manual or a reputable online resource specific to your rifle's model and serial number for detailed instructions.
- Seek Professional Help: If you encounter difficulties or feel uncertain at any point, do not hesitate to seek assistance from a qualified gunsmith. Improper disassembly or reassembly can damage your firearm.
- Photography: Before beginning disassembly, taking pictures of each step can be incredibly helpful during the reassembly process. This serves as a visual aid and ensures you put everything back in its correct place.
By following these steps carefully and prioritizing safety, you can effectively disassemble, clean, and reassemble your Marlin Golden 39A, ensuring its longevity and continued performance. Remember, safety is paramount. Always handle firearms responsibly.
