J.C. higgins

Question
I have a J.C.Higgins model 40cal 30/30 lever action serial number t18291 thanks..

Answer
Hi Travis,

Thanks for your email.  Since you didn't actually ask me a question, I'm going to have to assume that you wanted more info about your gun.  J.C. Higgins was a 'store brand' for the Sears Roebuck department store chain.  The gun is most likely a Marlin 336 lever action.  The store brand versions were designed to be less expensive and many times used birch or another inexpensive wood for the stock and fore end instead of the more expensive walnut.  The basic barrel and action are the same however.

These were great shooters and a tremendous value for the money.  For many years this was the quintessential deer rifle.  The model 336RC was made from 1948-1968, and starting in 1969, Marlin made the 336C until 1983.  

There are no serial number records for the store branded guns to try and date it.  You may know a little family history of the gun which could help you narrow it down to one or the other model.

In terms of value, if the gun is fully operational and in excellent condition, you might get $250 for it on the used market, although it would probably be more like $175-$200 since it is a 'store brand' not a "Marlin" branded gun.

Hope this helps you out.  Feel free to ask a follow up question if you need more info.

Best regards,

Doug Little