The model 60 had this problem alot usually the gun needs to be cleaned, there's alot of talk that 36 grain rounds cause jams too. 40 grain is a little better but if you dont clean regularly it will still jam and not eject correctly.
Ammo, imporper assembly, dirty
The marlin model 39A is the rifle model,while the Marlin model 39M is the carbine model.
Its probably a model 1894 & should be marked as such on the upper tang. Prior to the model 1894 Marlin made a Model 1889 in the same calibres that was not marked. But, a 1889 should only have 2 patent dates, 1887 & 1889 I believe. It is possible you have a model 1889 with a model 1894 barrel on it.
the serial number 21171 would be from late 1888, the 38W stands for 38winchester also known as a 38-40 caliber. this gun will be either a late model 1888 marlin with top shell ejection, or a very early 1889 model with side ejection, also the model 1889 would be marked marlin safety on top of the reciever. in either case this is a antique black powder cartridge firearm and should not be shot with modern smokeless powder ammo, due do stronger ammo pressures and weaker steel that was used in the guns of this period.
model 55 the original marlin goose gun
Marlin 81
The Marlin Model 60 manual may be dowloaded from Marlin's website.
The Marlin model 925 22 long rifle, was first introduced in 2003. Before that it was Glenfield Marlin model 25 or just Marlin model 25. Hope this helps.
The Marlin model 80G was a promotional model that was made from 1960-1965.
The marlin model 995 was made by marlin between the years 1995-1999.
your marlin model 1897 was made by marlin in 1903.
A Marlin magazine. The model 25 is the same as a Marlin model 80.