Marlin 81TS Micro Groove 22 S/L/LR Bolt-Action Rifle (Demo Model)

Everything You Need to Know About the Marlin 81TS Micro Groove .22 S/L/LR Bolt-Action Rifle (Demo Model)

Marlin 81TS Micro Groove 22 S/L/LR Bolt-Action Rifle (Demo Model). If you’re a fan of rimfire rifles, chances are you’ve come across the name Marlin more than once. Marlin Firearms has long been known for producing high-quality, accurate, and affordable firearms, and one of their standout models in the rimfire category is the Marlin 81TS Micro Groove .22 S/L/LR Bolt-Action Rifle. In this article, we’re taking a detailed look at this classic rifle—specifically the demo model—and exploring what makes it a top pick for shooters, collectors, and outdoor enthusiasts.

A Quick Overview of the Marlin 81TS

The Marlin 81TS is a tube-fed, bolt-action rifle chambered for .22 Short, .22 Long, and .22 Long Rifle cartridges. That kind of versatility is a major selling point for people who like to shoot a variety of rimfire ammunition without switching guns. With Marlin’s proprietary Micro-Groove rifling, this rifle delivers impressive accuracy, even with budget ammo.

The “TS” in the name stands for Tubular Synthetic, which refers to the magazine style and the stock material. The 81TS features a synthetic stock instead of traditional wood, which gives it durability and resistance to the elements—perfect for outdoor use in less-than-ideal weather.

What’s a Demo Model? Marlin 81TS Micro Groove 22 S/L/LR Bolt-Action Rifle (Demo Model)

A demo model rifle is typically a firearm that has been used for display, demonstration, or limited test firing. These rifles are usually in excellent condition, often with only minor cosmetic wear. They’re a great way to save money while still getting a fully functional, well-maintained firearm. Buying a demo model Marlin 81TS means you get the same great quality at a reduced cost.

Now, let’s break down the features and benefits of this rifle in more detail.

Design and Build Quality

The Marlin 81TS sports a black synthetic Monte Carlo-style stock. Unlike traditional wooden stocks that can warp or crack in bad weather, this synthetic version is built to withstand rough environments. It resists moisture, heat, and cold, making it ideal for long shooting sessions in various outdoor conditions.

The overall length is approximately 41 inches, and it weighs just about 6 pounds, which makes it very manageable for young shooters, beginners, or anyone who doesn’t want to lug around a heavy firearm. Its ergonomic design makes it comfortable to shoulder, aim, and fire with ease.

The blued steel barrel adds a touch of traditional styling while providing solid corrosion resistance. With its Micro-Groove rifling (more on that in a bit), this rifle is more accurate than you might expect from a budget-friendly rimfire option.

Micro-Groove Rifling: What Sets It Apart

One of the biggest draws of the Marlin 81TS is the Micro-Groove rifling in its barrel. Introduced by Marlin in the 1950s, Micro-Groove rifling uses many small, shallow grooves instead of the fewer, deeper grooves found in traditional rifling. The 81TS features 16 Micro-Grooves, which offer several key benefits:

• Improved accuracy: Micro-Groove barrels have more consistent engagement with the bullet, resulting in tighter shot groupings.
• Less fouling: Shallow grooves mean less lead build-up, making cleaning quicker and easier.
• Longer barrel life: Reduced fouling and smoother bullet travel can contribute to extended barrel longevity.

This feature is particularly beneficial when shooting .22 LR rounds, which can be notoriously dirty. With the 81TS, you’ll find yourself cleaning less and shooting more.

Bolt-Action Simplicity

Bolt-action rifles are known for their reliability, simplicity, and accuracy. The Marlin 81TS is no different. Its smooth bolt-action mechanism allows for precise control over each shot, which is especially useful for training purposes or when teaching new shooters.

The action is reliable and easy to operate, even for younger users or those with limited hand strength. Because it’s a bolt-action, there are fewer moving parts compared to semi-automatic rimfires, which means fewer malfunctions and less maintenance over time.

If you’re someone who values control over speed, or you enjoy the deliberate nature of bolt-action shooting, the 81TS is a rewarding platform to work with.

Versatile Ammunition Compatibility

Another standout feature of the Marlin 81TS is its ability to chamber .22 Short, .22 Long, and .22 Long Rifle cartridges. That means you can shoot a wide range of ammo types, from high-velocity hunting rounds to low-powered target loads.

This versatility makes it:

• Perfect for training: Use cheaper, lower-power rounds for plinking and practice.
• Effective for small game hunting: Switch to high-velocity .22 LR for rabbits, squirrels, and other small critters.
• Great for ammo shortages: If one type of .22 ammo is scarce, you can usually find another to keep shooting.

The tubular magazine holds up to 25 rounds of .22 Short, 20 rounds of .22 Long, or 17 rounds of .22 LR, giving you plenty of firepower before needing to reload.

Iron Sights and Optics Options

The Marlin 81TS comes equipped with adjustable open rear sights and a hooded front post, offering a traditional and dependable sight picture. For most plinking, target shooting, and small-game hunting tasks, these iron sights are more than adequate.

However, for those who want to upgrade, the receiver is grooved for scope mounts, allowing you to easily add optics. Whether you’re a fan of red dot sights for quick target acquisition or a traditional rifle scope for long-range precision, the 81TS offers plenty of flexibility.

Safety Features Marlin 81TS Micro Groove 22 S/L/LR Bolt-Action Rifle (Demo Model)

Safety is critical in any firearm, especially for newer or younger shooters. The Marlin 81TS includes a manual cross-bolt safety that is easy to engage and disengage. This safety is located just behind the trigger, in a position that’s intuitive and accessible.

Additionally, the bolt can be locked open for inspection, making the rifle safe and easy to handle at the range or in the field.

Performance in the Field

So how does the Marlin 81TS perform where it counts—in real-world shooting scenarios?

For general plinking and target shooting, this rifle offers tight groups at 25 and even 50 yards with standard .22 LR ammunition. Its light recoil, smooth action, and accurate barrel make it fun and satisfying to shoot, even for hours at a time.

For small-game hunting, it has all the power and precision needed for ethical kills on animals like rabbits, squirrels, or raccoons. The ability to use quieter .22 Short ammo is a bonus if you’re hunting in areas where noise discipline is important.

The Demo Model Advantage

If you’re considering a demo model of the Marlin 81TS, you’re in for a solid value. These rifles are usually handled with care and may show only minor wear from display use. You’re essentially getting the same quality and performance as a new rifle but at a discounted price.

Many demo models are inspected, cleaned, and verified for function before resale, giving you peace of mind and extra savings. Just make sure to inspect the demo rifle for cosmetic damage, check the bore condition, and ensure all functions (bolt, safety, trigger) work as expected.

Why Choose the Marlin 81TS?

There are a lot of rimfire rifles out there, but the Marlin 81TS continues to stand out for a few important reasons:

• Affordability: Both new and demo models are priced for budget-conscious shooters.
• Accuracy: Micro-Groove rifling delivers better-than-expected accuracy.
• Versatility: Compatible with .22 S, .22 L, and .22 LR; ideal for plinking, training, and hunting.
• Durability: Synthetic stock and blued steel construction hold up well in rough conditions.
• Ease of use: Lightweight, ergonomic, and simple bolt-action design is great for all skill levels.

Whether you’re a collector looking to add a classic to your lineup, a new shooter searching for a reliable starter rifle, or an experienced outdoorsman in need of a dependable rimfire for the field, the Marlin 81TS checks all the boxes.

Caring for Your Marlin 81TS

Maintaining your Marlin 81TS will keep it shooting smoothly for years. Regular cleaning of the bore and bolt is essential, especially when using .22 LR ammo, which tends to leave residue. Use a quality .22-caliber bore brush and cleaning solvent to scrub the barrel. Wipe down the exterior with an oil cloth to prevent rust, and inspect the bolt and trigger mechanism for buildup or wear.

Because of the Micro-Groove rifling, you’ll notice this rifle stays cleaner longer than others, which makes upkeep even easier.

Thoughts Marlin 81TS Micro Groove 22 S/L/LR Bolt-Action Rifle (Demo Model)

The Marlin 81TS Micro Groove .22 S/L/LR Bolt-Action Rifle (Demo Model) is a solid investment for anyone who values accuracy, versatility, and classic rimfire performance. With its combination of reliable bolt-action operation, Micro-Groove rifling, and the ability to handle multiple .22 calibers, it’s hard to beat—especially when considering