1889 question.

[Gunutz]

I picked up a very nice 1889 in 32W today and I was a little surprised to find that it had a 22" barrel. I looked it over throughly and I cannot see any evidence of the barrel being shortened. It wears serial #32163
Can anyone tell me if this is a normal anomaly or has this thing been Frankensteined?
Thanks.

[Regnier (gunrunner)]

Gunutz;

Unfortunately, your Marlin Model 1889 has been shortened. The factory records show that your rifle left the factory with a 28 inch octagon barrel in .32-20 caliber in late 1890.

[Gunutz]

Thanks for the information. That is truly a shame. When I seen how nice the bore and the finish was and couldn't find any indication that the barrel was shortened, I figured it might be a "Special Order". I guess I was right and wrong. Lol
28" must have been pretty rare in the 32W?
It was definitely fitted with a tang sight at some point. Makes sense I guess. At least I didn't pay too much.
Thanks again.

[marlinman93]

28" barrels are not that common, but not rare regardless of cartridge. When I was chasing early pre WWI Marlin lever actions I always liked finding any with extra length barrels, and the longer the better!