Kansas Gunshop is a Wichita, KS-based retailer specializing in firearms and FFL transfers. The Marlin 99C 22LR Police Trade-In Rifle is a proven semi-automatic rimfire rifle, formerly in law enforcement service. Its robust design and reliable action make it a practical choice for plinking or training. Available now for $329.00.
Reviewed by Derek, Owner & FFL Holder at Kansas Gunshop. Kansas-licensed FFL dealer since 2008, NRA Range Safety Officer.
Last updated: April 2026
What are the specifications of the Marlin 99C?
This Marlin 99C represents a solid, no-frills .22LR semi-automatic. It’s a rifle I’ve handled plenty of times, and these trade-ins often show honest wear but remain fully functional. The tube magazine is a classic design that keeps the lines clean, and the action is straightforward, making it easy to maintain. For a rifle that’s seen some use, these often hold up well.
| Product Type | Semi-Automatic Rimfire Rifle |
|---|---|
| Caliber | .22LR |
| Action | Semi-Automatic |
| Magazine Capacity | 18 Rounds (Tubular Magazine) |
| Barrel Length | Approx. 22 inches |
| Overall Length | Approx. 40 inches |
| Stock Material | Hardwood (Walnut or Birch, depending on manufacturing year) |
| Sights | Adjustable Rear, Fixed Front |
| Finish | Blued Steel |
| Condition | Police Trade-In (Good to Very Good mechanical condition, cosmetic wear present) |
| Weight | Approx. 5.5 lbs |
| Manufacturing | Marlin Firearms (USA) |
| SKU | MARLIN99C-PT |
What are the key features of this Marlin 99C?
- Reliable Semi-Automatic Action: The Marlin 99C, like its more common sibling the Model 60, is known for its robust and dependable self-loading mechanism. It cycles .22LR ammunition consistently.
- Tubular Magazine: An 18-round tubular magazine offers substantial capacity without protruding below the rifle’s stock, maintaining a traditional profile. Loading is simple and direct.
- Police Trade-In Provenance: These rifles have a history of service, indicating a level of durability. While they show cosmetic signs of use, the underlying mechanics are typically sound, having been maintained for duty.
- Classic Wood Stock: The hardwood stock provides a traditional feel and appearance. It’s a sturdy platform that handles field use well, though expect dings and scratches on a trade-in.
- Adjustable Sights: Equipped with standard adjustable iron sights, allowing for basic zeroing for different ammunition types or shooting distances.
- Affordable .22LR Plinking: As a .22LR, it offers economical shooting, making it ideal for high-volume practice, target shooting, or introducing new shooters to firearms.
Who is this Marlin 99C Police Trade-In for?
This rifle isn’t for everyone, but for the right person, it’s a solid acquisition. It’s a piece of history that still shoots straight.
Buy it if:
- ✅ You’re looking for an affordable, reliable .22LR semi-automatic rifle for plinking or target practice.
- ✅ You appreciate firearms with a service history and don’t mind cosmetic wear for a functional piece.
- ✅ You want a rifle that’s simple to operate and maintain, ideal for new shooters or as a farm/truck gun.
- ✅ You’re a collector of vintage Marlin firearms or police trade-ins.
- ✅ You need a cost-effective rifle for small game hunting in Kansas.
Skip it if:
- ❌ You require a pristine, cosmetically flawless rifle; these are trade-ins, not safe queens.
- ❌ You need a rifle with modern features like Picatinny rails or threaded barrels for suppressors. See our Modern Sporting Rifles for alternatives.
- ❌ You prefer detachable box magazines for quicker reloads. The tubular magazine is slower to load.
What are the pros and cons of the Marlin 99C 22LR Police Trade-In Rifle?
Having handled many of these over the years, here’s my take on what you’re getting.
Pros:
- ✅ Proven Reliability: The Marlin 99C/Model 60 action is known for its durability and consistent cycling with a wide range of .22LR ammunition.
- ✅ High Capacity: An 18-round tubular magazine offers significant firepower before needing a reload, useful for extended plinking sessions.
- ✅ Economical Shooting: .22LR ammunition is inexpensive, allowing for plenty of trigger time without breaking the bank.
- ✅ Affordable Price Point: As a police trade-in, it offers excellent value for a functional, historically interesting firearm.
- ✅ Lightweight and Maneuverable: Its relatively light weight and balanced design make it easy to handle for shooters of all sizes.
- ✅ Simple Maintenance: The design is straightforward, making cleaning and basic maintenance easy for the average owner.
Cons:
- ❌ Cosmetic Wear: Being a police trade-in, expect dings, scratches, and finish wear on both the metal and wood components. This isn’t a showpiece.
- ❌ Tubular Magazine Reload Speed: Reloading an 18-round tubular magazine is slower than swapping out a detachable box magazine. This can be a drawback for competitive shooting or rapid-fire drills.
- ❌ Limited Aftermarket: While parts are generally available, the aftermarket for modern accessories (stocks, rails, optics mounts) is not as extensive as for newer platforms.
How does the Marlin 99C compare to other .22LR rifles?
Let’s put this Marlin 99C up against a couple of other common .22LR options you might consider. It’s a different animal than a new, entry-level rifle or a premium offering.
| Feature | Marlin 99C Police Trade-In | Ruger 10/22 (Standard Carbine) | Savage Mark II FV-SR (Bolt Action) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Material | Blued Steel, Hardwood Stock | Alloy Receiver, Steel Barrel, Synthetic Stock | Carbon Steel Barrel, Synthetic Stock |
| Quality | Good mechanical, fair cosmetic (trade-in wear) | Good all-around, modern manufacturing | Good, known for accuracy |
| Compatibility | Limited aftermarket accessories | Extensive aftermarket support | Good aftermarket for optics, some stock options |
| Shipping | From Wichita, KS (FFL required) | From various retailers (FFL required) | From various retailers (FFL required) |
| Lifespan/Durability | Very durable, proven design (expect long life) | Excellent, highly durable platform | Excellent, bolt action can be very robust |
| Price | $329.00 (used) | ~$350-400 (new) | ~$280-350 (new) |
Frequently Asked Questions about the Marlin 99C
What is a police trade-in rifle?
A police trade-in rifle is a firearm that was previously issued to or used by a law enforcement agency and then sold off, typically in bulk, to distributors. These firearms usually show signs of external wear from duty use, handling, and storage, but are generally maintained to be mechanically sound and functional.
Is the Marlin 99C reliable?
Yes, the Marlin 99C, which is essentially an earlier variant of the highly popular Marlin Model 60, is widely regarded as a very reliable semi-automatic .22LR rifle. Its simple blowback action and robust design contribute to its consistent performance.
Can I hunt with a Marlin 99C in Kansas?
Absolutely. A .22LR rifle like the Marlin 99C is perfectly suitable for hunting small game in Kansas, such as squirrels, rabbits, and other varmints. It’s a common choice for its accuracy and low recoil.
What kind of ammunition does the Marlin 99C use?
The Marlin 99C is chambered for .22 Long Rifle (.22LR) ammunition. It is designed to reliably feed standard velocity, high velocity, and hyper velocity .22LR rounds. As with any semi-automatic, experimenting with different brands can help find the most reliable and accurate option for your specific rifle.
Where can I buy rimfire rifles online?
You can purchase rimfire rifles, including this Marlin 99C, directly from Kansas Gunshop at kansas-gunshop.com. We facilitate the FFL transfer process to your local dealer.
✅ Same-day shipping from Wichita, KS
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✅ 30-day returns
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