Produced in the early 1920s, this Marlin 12 gauge pump shotgun had a cracked stock and needed a thorough cleaning. This is how it was disassembled and repaired.

by Glen Calvert

The Model 43 was produced by Marlin Firearms Co. from 1922 until 1930. It was made in 12 gauge only and the serial numbers ranged from 537 to 17411. The 22XX serial number on this shotgun indicated it was assembled in 1923.

The Model 43 is one of the more complex firearm designs that I have seen. This one had been worked on at sometime in its life as several of the screw heads were damaged and there was a big scratch on the side plate. The receiver was dinged up next to the barrel locknut. This one is not a collectible, but it’s unfortunate that people don’t use care and the proper tools when working on a firearm.

Disassembly

Make sure the magazine and chamber are empty. Removing the stock first makes it easier to work on the shotgun. Remove the buttplate and use a…

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