Did marlin ever make a short barrel trapper in 44 magnum?Are they hard to find?

Yes, the 1894P. The P is for "ported" barrel. I have one and while not impossible to find when you do see them they are a bit expensive....running from $700 - $1000. They were only made in 1 year and not too many at that. I also have a Winny Trapper in 44mag as well.