Stevens Model 44

[clance]

I just purchase a Stevens Model 44 in 22LR the other day on GunBroker. I don't much about them other then they're a adult size version of the Stevens Favorite and would be comparable to the Winchester 1885 Low Wall as far as market. While the seller list the barrel as target I've seen couple of these rifles before in 22LR and this to me appears to be nothing more then a barrel in ratio to the size of the action as it would look odd having a thinner barrel. I am aware that these were used as competition guns back in the late 1800s to early 1900s and have seen some very expensive models with double set triggers, elongated breech block levers and very fancy furniture. If this is a target model it must be a entry level one.







What I'm interested in is whether anyone knows of a list of manufacturer's dates for this particular model (Serial number is 21XXX) and a ballpark figure as far as what one would expect to pay for one.

 

[airedaleman]

Would try here: http://www.assra.com

These people really know their single shot rifles...

 

[slumlord44]

They were a hunting, plinking, or target rifle depending on the sights and configuration. I would call it a target rifle with the Lyman Tang sight. These were optional from the factory. With a Pope barrel and double set triggers they were a premium target rifle. Prices go any where from around $500 for a decent shooter with a good bore to over $9,000 with a Pope barrel or an extremely fancy stock and sights. If yours has a pristine barrel I would say $600 to $800. Rare calibers also bring more. Dating by serial # is not possible because factory records do not exist. Details like extractor location, barrel markings, and other details can get you in the ball park. They are considered to be great .22 rifles. While they were chambered in many center fire calibers, they are not considered safe with loadings above black powder pressures. Good guns and a bargain when compared to prices for Winchesters of the same period. Shoot it and enjoy it. I also recommend the ASSRA site. I spend a lot of time there. Great group of people with a lot of knowledge.