Marlin Glenfield 60 .22LR Police Trade-In Rifle (JM Stamp) – A Legendary Rimfire with a Legacy of Service
Marlin Glenfield 60 22LR Police Trade-In Rifle (JM Stamp). The Marlin Glenfield Model 60 .22LR, especially those marked with the “JM” stamp, represents more than just a budget-friendly rimfire rifle — it’s a true piece of American shooting history. As one of the most popular semi-automatic .22 rifles ever produced, the Model 60 has earned a place in millions of gun safes across the country.
When you add the fact that it’s a police trade-in, and includes the coveted JM (John Marlin) proof mark, you’re not just getting a rifle — you’re owning a veteran of the field, with real-world use and a proud manufacturing pedigree. Whether you’re a shooter, a collector, or someone who appreciates American craftsmanship, the Marlin Glenfield 60 (JM Stamp) is a gem worth knowing.
🔹 What is the Marlin Glenfield 60?
The Glenfield Model 60 was a version of the Marlin 60 manufactured under the “Glenfield” name — a brand Marlin used primarily for rifles sold through department stores and hardware chains in the mid-20th century. Mechanically, it’s the same as the standard Marlin 60, but often featured different stock designs, simpler finishes, and more affordable pricing.
Despite its budget-market origin, the Glenfield 60 proved to be an extremely reliable, accurate, and well-made rifle — gaining a cult following among rimfire shooters and collectors alike.
🔹 What Does the “JM Stamp” Mean?
The “JM” stamp — usually located on the left side of the barrel near the receiver — stands for John Marlin, the founder of Marlin Firearms. This stamp identifies rifles that were manufactured by Marlin prior to the Remington acquisition in 2007–2008.
Why does this matter?
- Pre-Remington Marlins are known for their superior craftsmanship.
- Collectors seek out JM-stamped rifles for quality and heritage.
- They represent the “golden era” of Marlin production.
So when you find a JM-stamped Glenfield 60, especially as a police trade-in, you’re holding a genuine piece of gun history.
📜 Legacy and Production Marlin Glenfield 60 22LR Police Trade-In Rifle (JM Stamp)
First introduced in 1960, the Model 60 went on to become one of the best-selling semi-automatic rimfire rifles in the world, with over 11 million units produced. Glenfield-branded versions were widely sold through retail chains in the 1960s to 1980s, and many of those remain in circulation today — still running strong.
Police trade-ins, while less common for rimfire rifles, were typically used in:
- Training academies
- Cadet programs
- Department marksmanship courses
- Pest control or property defense on police-owned facilities
These rifles were often well-maintained, periodically inspected, and used in controlled environments.
🔍 Key Specifications – Marlin Glenfield 60 .22LR (JM Stamp)
- Caliber: .22 Long Rifle (LR)
- Action: Semi-automatic, blowback
- Barrel Length: 18–22 inches (varies by year)
- Overall Length: ~37–40 inches
- Weight: Approx. 5.5 lbs (unloaded)
- Magazine: 14+1 round tubular magazine
- Stock: Hardwood (typically birch), often with squirrel engraving
- Finish: Blued barrel and receiver
- Sights: Adjustable rear sight, ramped front sight
- Barrel Type: Micro-Groove rifling (16+ lands/grooves)
- Receiver: Grooved for rimfire scope mounting
- Safety: Cross-bolt safety
- Markings: “JM” proof mark on barrel (indicates Marlin manufacture)
🎯 Performance and Accuracy Marlin Glenfield 60 22LR Police Trade-In Rifle (JM Stamp)
For a budget rimfire rifle, the Glenfield Model 60 punches far above its weight in performance — especially in the pre-Remington, JM-stamped versions.
Accuracy:
- Micro-Groove rifling gives excellent spin stabilization.
- Many shooters report 1-inch groups at 50 yards with standard ammo.
- With a rimfire scope, expect reliable hits out to 100 yards on small targets.
Reliability:
- Smooth, reliable cycling with most .22LR ammo.
- Tube-fed design resists jamming compared to low-end box mags.
- Great function even after decades of use.
Whether you’re target shooting or hunting small game, this rifle provides a steady, dependable experience.
🔧 Durability and Maintenance Marlin Glenfield 60 22LR Police Trade-In Rifle (JM Stamp)
The Glenfield 60 was built with simplicity and longevity in mind. These rifles can last for decades with minimal upkeep — and many trade-ins are still in excellent mechanical condition today.
Maintenance Tips:
- Clean the bore after every few outings to prevent lead buildup.
- Keep the bolt and action lightly oiled for smooth cycling.
- Occasionally clean the magazine tube and follower spring.
- Replace the buffer pad or action spring every 10k rounds if needed (parts are cheap and easy to find).
Even with moderate cosmetic wear, the mechanical heart of the Glenfield 60 is built to last.
🛠️ Police Trade-In Condition Expectations
As a used police trade-in, you can typically expect:
- Cosmetic wear: scuffs, light dings, stock wear, faded finish.
- Tight mechanics: smooth bolt, functioning safety, clean barrel.
- Used but not abused: Most of these rifles were used in training settings, not tossed around in squad cars.
- Some upgrades: Occasionally scoped or fitted with sling studs.
You’re not just getting a rifle — you’re getting a tool that’s proven in real-world use.
🔄 Why Choose the Glenfield 60 Trade-In?
Here’s why this rifle stands out, especially as a used police trade-in:
✅ Real Value
- You can typically find these rifles for $125–$225, making them one of the best rimfire values on the market.
✅ Proven Reliability
- Time-tested action, durable parts, and easy-to-maintain internals.
✅ Collector’s Appeal
- JM-stamped models are increasingly sought after.
✅ Training-Grade Accuracy
- Perfect for teaching new shooters or keeping your own skills sharp.
✅ Nostalgia and History
- For many, the Glenfield 60 was their first rifle. Owning a police-used model adds a layer of character and legacy.
🦌 Practical Use Cases Marlin Glenfield 60 22LR Police Trade-In Rifle (JM Stamp)
The Marlin Glenfield 60 .22LR is versatile and capable across a variety of uses:
🐿️ Small Game Hunting
- Perfect for squirrel, rabbit, and raccoon hunting.
- Low report, high accuracy, and excellent ammo compatibility.
🎯 Target Shooting & Plinking
- Great for backyard fun or serious paper punching.
- Tube magazine means more time shooting, less time reloading.
👨🏫 Training & Youth Shooting
- Low recoil, lightweight, and intuitive controls make it ideal for teaching firearm safety and fundamentals.
🏡 Farm & Property Utility
- Effective for dispatching pests around barns and fields.
💵 Price & Collectability
As more shooters and collectors seek out JM-stamped Marlins, these rifles are becoming harder to find in good condition. The Glenfield versions, especially those with intact stocks and original finishes, are increasingly valued — not just as shooters but as nostalgic keepsakes.
Price Range:
- Standard trade-in: $125–$175
- Excellent condition: $175–$225
- With scope or accessories: Up to $250+
It’s not just a rifle — it’s a working piece of American firearm history.
📦 Pros and Cons of the Marlin Glenfield 60 (JM Stamp)
Pros:
- Proven accuracy and reliability
- Classic design with hardwood stock
- JM-stamped pre-Remington quality
- Long tubular magazine (14+1 rounds)
- Easy to maintain and repair
- Collector value rising
Cons:
- Fixed tube magazine is slower to reload than box mags
- Older models may need buffer or spring replaced (cheap fix)
- Cosmetic wear common in trade-in guns
- Some scopes won’t mount easily on older grooved receivers
🧭 An Honest Rifle with an Unmatched Legacy Marlin Glenfield 60 22LR Police Trade-In Rifle (JM Stamp)
The Marlin Glenfield 60 .22LR Police Trade-In Rifle (JM Stamp) is everything a good rifle should be: accurate, durable, affordable, and steeped in American firearm history.
Whether you’re buying it to relive childhood memories, introduce someone new to shooting, add to your collection, or just enjoy a reliable rimfire rifle, the Glenfield 60 delivers in spades. And as a trade-in with law enforcement service history, it carries a story — one of practical, trusted utility that continues today.
In a world filled with polymer and gadgets, sometimes the best rifle is the one that simply works. And keeps
working. That’s what you get with a Glenfield 60.