Guns

Marlin’s 1894 Trapper Arrives in 10mm: A Closer Look at the Specs

November 6, 2026

Marlin's Model 1894 Trapper line now comes chambered in 10 mm Auto, giving lever-action fans a compact, stainless rifle built to pair with their modern 10 mm handguns. American Rifleman's "Gun of the Week" walks through the rifle's features as part of Ruger's ongoing work rebuilding the Marlin brand after Remington Outdoors' 2020 bankruptcy.

Key points

  • Compact barrel: The Trapper's 16.1-inch threaded barrel is shorter than Marlin's standard lever guns, making it a handier option for field carry.
  • Magazine capacity: A tubular magazine under the barrel holds 10 rounds of 10 mm Auto, loaded through a gate on the receiver's right side.
  • Sights and optics: Removable Skinner aperture sights top the receiver, and the sight block comes off to mount an optic; a dovetail cut at the barrel's top also allows for backup sights.
  • Build quality: Stainless-steel construction is matched with weather-resistant laminate furniture, sling-swivel studs, and a sizable rubber recoil pad for field use.
  • Caliber pairing: American Rifleman Executive Editor Evan Brune notes the renewed interest in 10 mm Auto now lets shooters match a modern pistol with what he calls a "modern cowboy gun."

Quick take

This is a straightforward look at a notable new chambering rather than a full range test, but it covers the specs that matter: barrel length, capacity, sight setup and build materials. For shooters already running 10 mm handguns, a lever gun sharing that cartridge is worth a closer look once more detailed testing emerges.

Read the full story: americanrifleman.org